TTC Honey vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro
An in-depth look at the TTC Honey and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Honey, a linear switch, with the Dareu Violet Gold Pro, a tactile switch, it is important to consider the unique characteristics of each. The Honey switch is praised for its smooth and creamy feel, while also producing a deep and pleasant sound profile. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro switch offers a medium tactility with a light touch and a neutral sound signature, making it a balanced option for typing. While the Honey switch is described as 'subdued', 'creamy', and 'frictionless', the Violet Gold Pro switch is labeled as 'stepped' and 'neutral'. Deciding between these two switches will depend on individual preferences such as typing style and desired sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
25.5 mm lengthened spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Honey and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This makes them ideal for switches that aim for a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches intended for use with RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through brightly. In contrast, the bottom housing of the Honey is also polycarbonate, while the Violet Gold Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and creating a rounder tone.
Although both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, the difference in the bottom housing material between the Honey and the Violet Gold Pro can have a noticeable impact on the overall sound and feel of the switch. With the Honey, the sharper and crisper qualities of polycarbonate will be reflected in both the top and bottom housing, providing a consistent sound experience across the switch. On the other hand, the combination of a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing in the Violet Gold Pro creates a more dynamic sound profile, with a sharper sound when pressing down and a deeper tone when releasing a key.
The choice between a polycarbonate or nylon bottom housing ultimately comes down to personal preference and the desired sound profile for the switch. While both materials offer their own unique advantages, the TTC Honey and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro showcase how these housing materials can influence the overall sound and feel of a switch. Whether you prefer a sharper, clearer sound with polycarbonate or a deeper, fuller tone with nylon, each housing material brings its own characteristics to the typing experience.
Weight
The TTC Honey linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch. The Honey requires 42 grams of force to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out, while the Violet Gold Pro needs 45 grams to actuate, with the bottom out force being unknown. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Honey make it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, such as for work or gaming. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the Violet Gold Pro may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial typing feel. Both switches offer different levels of force, allowing users to choose based on their preferences for typing or gaming.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Honey linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch have a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When pressing down on a key with either of these switches, users will experience the same amount of key travel. This means that whether you choose the Honey or the Violet Gold Pro, you can expect a consistent key feel and response. The similarity in travel distance between these two switches ensures that users will get similar results in terms of keypress feedback and actuation, making them both reliable options for keyboard enthusiasts.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Honey has an MSRP of $9.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey for $6.78.
The Dareu Violet Gold Pro has an MSRP of $7.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet Gold Pro for $4.76.
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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Honey linear switch offers a subdued sound profile, providing a dampened and subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch has a neutral sound signature, making it suitable for various environments and preferences. Both switches offer pleasing sound profiles, with the Honey switch giving a deeper sound while the Violet Gold Pro switch being more moderate.
In terms of feel, the TTC Honey linear switch is known for its creamy and frictionless typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation with minimal resistance. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch is described as stepped, providing a mild tactile bump with distinct pre-travel and/or post-travel stages. While the Honey switch focuses on a seamless and effortless keystroke, the Violet Gold Pro switch offers a balanced tactile feedback that appeals to users seeking a refined typing experience.
Overall, both the TTC Honey linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Honey switch excels in providing a smooth and creamy typing feel with a deep and pleasant sound, ideal for those who prefer a frictionless typing experience. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro switch offers a balanced tactile feedback with a neutral sound signature, making it a versatile option for a wide range of users. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize a creamy linear feel or a stepped tactile response in your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Honey linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and a smooth, creamy typing experience with a pleasant sound profile, the TTC Honey linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you seek a medium tactility with a fairly light touch and a balanced typing experience, along with a neutral sound signature, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for actuation force, typing experience, and sound profile to enhance your overall keyboarding experience.
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