TTC Bluish White vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the TTC Bluish White and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC bluish white and the Gateron type A stand out as popular options with distinct features. The bluish white is praised for its tactile feedback and satisfyingly poppy typing experience, delivering a snappy sound profile that falls into the buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, polished, low-pitched category. On the other hand, the Gateron type A from Sillyworks' Project Rehash offers a linear switch option with a focus on innovative travel distances and factory lubing techniques. This switch is ideal for those seeking a medium-weight option with a sound signature on the deeper side of the spectrum, falling into the neutral, subdued category. Each switch has its own strengths and appeals to different preferences, but diving deeper beyond generalities will help you make an informed decision on the best switch for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the TTC Bluish White and the Gateron Type A, we see a clear difference in the materials used. The Bluish White features a polycarbonate top housing, which offers a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile compared to the Gateron Type A's nylon top housing. The polycarbonate material is stiffer, resulting in a more resonant sound, while the nylon material of the Type A absorbs more sound, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. This contrast in material properties leads to a distinct typing experience for each switch.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both the Bluish White and Type A switches utilize nylon for this component. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. This similarity in bottom housing material between the two switches suggests that they may have a similar typing experience in terms of sound when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel. The nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, providing a consistent typing experience in this aspect.
In summary, the housing materials of the TTC Bluish White and the Gateron Type A play a crucial role in shaping the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While the polycarbonate top housing of the Bluish White offers a sharper and crisper sound, the nylon top housing of the Type A provides a deeper and fuller sound. The common use of nylon for the bottom housing in both switches ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound absorption and overall sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, it is evident that the Bluish White is the lighter option with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. In contrast, the Type A is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. Both switches provide a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces. Lighter switches like the Bluish White are ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions, as they require less force to actuate. On the other hand, the heavier Type A switch offers a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
The TTC Bluish White tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Type A linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Gateron Type A has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the TTC Bluish White. The difference may not seem significant, but it can ultimately affect the feel and responsiveness of the switch when typing or gaming. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Bluish White with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Type A with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key feel and response.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Bluish White has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bluish White for $4.18.
The Gateron Type A comes in at $4.70 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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch offers a low-pitched, poppy sound profile that is sure to be satisfying for those who enjoy a bass-heavy and mellow tone while typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A linear switch provides a more neutral and subdued sound, making it suitable for a variety of typing environments due to its moderate actuation force requirement and dampened sound profile. Ultimately, the sound experience of these switches will also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Bluish White switch is known for its buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished typing experience, offering a smooth, gentle, two-stage tactile feedback with gentle resistance and reduced friction. This provides a seamless and refined typing sensation that is approachable to most users. In comparison, information on the feel of the Gateron Type A switch is not available, but based on the descriptions provided for the Bluish White, users can expect a similar level of typing comfort and smoothness.
In conclusion, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch stands out for its low-pitched, poppy sound and buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished feel, providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A linear switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound with qualities that are likely to offer a similar level of typing comfort and smoothness as the Bluish White. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the specific preferences of the user in terms of sound profile and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, consider the differences in bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a snappy, poppy typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, then the Bluish White may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force, a deeper sound signature, and are looking for a switch with a neutral and subdued sound profile, then the Gateron Type A might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the typing experience you are seeking.
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