TTC Gold Silver vs. Wuque Studio WS POM+
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Silver and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can drastically influence your typing experience, and two noteworthy linear options are the TTC Gold Silver and the Wuque Studio WS POM+. The TTC Gold Silver is renowned for its rapid responsiveness, characterized by a shortened travel distance that culminates in a decisive bottom-out with a pleasing, resonant sound signature. This switch offers a silky-smooth transition through each keystroke, making it ideal for gamers and typists who prioritize speed and precision. In contrast, the WS POM+ excels in delivering a rich, buttery experience, marked by a deep "thock" sound that enhances the tactile pleasure of typing. This switch is perfect for those who appreciate a more pronounced acoustic feedback and a satisfying keystroke. Both switches cater to different preferences for sound and feel, showcasing the diverse landscape of linear switches. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Silver and the Wuque Studio WS POM+, we observe notable differences in the composition of their top housings. The Gold Silver employs polycarbonate for its top housing, which is known for its stiffness and translucency, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This quality makes it particularly suitable for RGB lighting applications, as the clear nature of polycarbonate allows for more vibrant illumination. In contrast, the WS POM+ utilizes a POM top housing that produces a unique, deeper, and muted sound profile. Though both materials strive for resonance, polycarbonate’s clarity sets it apart from POM's warmer sound, suggesting that users will experience different auditory characteristics when using these switches.
The bottom housings of both switches present another interesting comparison. The Gold Silver features a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a fuller and rounder sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This leads to a deeper auditory experience that absorbs sound rather than amplifying it. Conversely, the WS POM+ employs POM for its bottom housing as well, which, much like nylon, produces a muted sound but with its own distinctive tonal qualities. Both bottom housings aim for a deeper sound, yet the nuances between nylon and POM may provide different tactile and auditory responses to users, particularly at the moment of bottoming out.
In terms of overall user experience, the combination of top and bottom housing materials balances the acoustic properties of both switches. While the Gold Silver delivers a crisper sound when releasing a key due to its polycarbonate top housing, the muted quality of its nylon bottom housing offers a rich, rounded bottoming sound. The WS POM+ similarly combines the deeper, more subdued characteristics of POM in both the top and bottom housing, leading to a consistent and pleasing sound experience throughout the key press. Ultimately, while the individual materials differ, both switches effectively provide unique auditory experiences tailored to user preferences, allowing for a satisfying typing experience regardless of the specific choice.
Weight
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch present an interesting comparison regarding actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches share the same actuation force of 45 grams, meaning users can expect a similar keystroke trigger requirement from both, making them suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. However, the WS POM+ switch has a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the bottom out force for the Gold Silver switch is unknown. This indicates that while users will have a similar experience when pressing down to actuation, the WS POM+ requires an additional force to fully bottom out, giving it a heavier feel overall. Therefore, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience, the WS POM+ may be the preferable choice, while the TTC Gold Silver will be appealing to users who prefer a lighter touch. With this in mind, the Gold Silver is the lighter option, whereas the WS POM+ is the heavier one.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, the TTC Gold Silver measures 3.5 mm, while the WS POM+ has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Gold Silver switch provides a marginally shorter travel distance than the WS POM+, making it potentially more suitable for gamers seeking rapid response times, as shorter travel distances typically allow for quicker actuation. Conversely, those who appreciate a more substantial feel with additional depth might prefer the WS POM+ due to its longer travel distance. With both switches being relatively close in travel distance, users seeking similar results in responsiveness and feel could find either option viable, depending on their personal preference for depth versus speed.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Silver has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Silver for $2.90.
The Wuque Studio WS POM+ comes in at $3.90 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
The sound characteristics of the TTC Gold Silver switch are notable for their low-pitched and neutral profile, giving it a reassuring bass-heavy tone that is suitable for various environments, whether at home or the office. This sound is designed to resonate with the swift action of the switch, enhancing the overall typing experience. In contrast, the WS POM+ is celebrated for its distinctive thocky sound, producing a deep, rich resonance that evokes a satisfying "thud" with each keystroke. Like the Gold Silver, the WS POM+ also features a low-pitched signature but is further characterized by a subdued quality, offering a dampened yet compelling auditory feedback. This difference in sound lends the WS POM+ an almost plush quality compared to the more straightforward delivery of the Gold Silver.
On the tactile front, the TTC Gold Silver boasts a polished, silky feel that promotes smooth, refined keystrokes, allowing for quicker typing with minimal friction. Its mild resistance makes it approachable for all users, making it a versatile choice for various typing tasks. The WS POM+, while also delivering a silky experience, is particularly recognized for its buttery smoothness, offering an effortless, uniform feel as fingers glide across the keys. Both switches prioritize a smooth typing experience, although the Gold Silver introduces a more balanced approach with a subtle resistance, while the WS POM+ emphasizes a sensation that feels almost like gliding on air.
In conclusion, while both switches present advantages in their sound and feel, the TTC Gold Silver is best suited for users seeking a direct and swift experience marked by a compelling audio presence. In contrast, the WS POM+ appeals to those who prioritize a rich auditory feedback coupled with an exceptionally smooth feel. Depending on individual preference and typing style, either of these switches can provide a satisfying experience; however, you will find that the TTC Gold Silver leans towards a more rapid and neutral sensibility, while the WS POM+ indulges in a deeper, plush typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor rapid responsiveness with a focus on quick and decisive keystrokes, the TTC Gold Silver will serve you well. Its shortened travel distance and smooth actuation make it ideal for fast typists or gamers who thrive on speed; plus, its low-pitched sound profile can be suitable for various environments, including shared spaces. On the other hand, if you're seeking a more gratifying auditory and tactile experience, the WS POM+ is your go-to option. With its thocky sound, buttery smooth feel, and medium-light bottom out force, this switch is perfect for those who enjoy a deeper sound signature and a satisfying typing experience that balances comfort and resonance. Ultimately, choose the TTC Gold Silver for speed and efficiency, and the WS POM+ for a rich sensory experience—both will enhance your mechanical keyboard journey in their unique ways.
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