TTC Gold Brown Pro vs. Gateron Ink Black V2
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Gateron Ink Black V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options to choose from, each offering a unique typing experience. Two popular choices that stand out are the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Gateron Ink Black V2. The Gold Brown Pro is a tactile switch known for its subtle and nuanced feedback, making it perfect for those who prefer a quieter typing experience with a gentle tactile bump. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 is a linear switch beloved by many for its smooth downstroke and rich clack sound. Each switch has its own distinct characteristics and benefits, catering to different preferences and typing styles. 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
45g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Gateron Ink Black V2 both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Gold Brown Pro's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound, while the INK blend top housing of the Ink Black V2 provides a satisfying thin and clacky sound. While both offer a high-pitched sound, the Gold Brown Pro's polycarbonate material is known for its clearer and more resonant profile compared to the slightly rounded sound of the Ink Black V2. However, both switches excel in creating a unique auditory experience, with the Gold Brown Pro offering a more distinctive and brighter sound, while the Ink Black V2 delivers a slightly softer and more clacky tone.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the Gold Brown Pro's nylon housing brings a deeper and fuller sound, creating a duller and rounder tone that is distinct from the high-pitched sound of its top housing. On the other hand, the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Black V2 complements its top housing, providing a consistent and high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. The softer nylon material of the Gold Brown Pro absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper sound profile, while the proprietary INK blend material of the Ink Black V2 offers a more pointed and satisfying tone. Both bottom housings contribute to the overall sound profile of each switch, adding depth and character to their auditory experience.
While the top and bottom housings of the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Gateron Ink Black V2 offer different qualities, they both play a crucial role in shaping the overall sound profile of each switch. The bottom housing's impact is primarily felt when bottoming out a key, influencing the depth and richness of the sound. In contrast, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key, contributing to the overall clarity and resonance of the switch. Despite the differences in their housing materials, both switches offer a unique and enjoyable typing experience, each with its own distinct sound characteristics that cater to different preferences.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, we can see that the Gold Brown Pro is lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Ink Black V2's 60 grams. Additionally, the Gold Brown Pro has an unknown bottom out force while the Ink Black V2 has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Gold Brown Pro for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who prefer a stronger push feel may opt for the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Ink Black V2 for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, slightly shorter than the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches fall within a similar range and offer a relatively traditional travel distance, the Gold Brown Pro provides a slightly shorter key press experience compared to the Ink Black V2. Gamers might prefer the Gold Brown Pro for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Ink Black V2 with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown Pro 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 Brown Pro for $2.90.
The Gateron Ink Black V2 has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Black V2 for $7.24.
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 Gold Brown Pro switch offers a thocky and low-pitched profile, making each keystroke a subtle and satisfying experience. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Black V2 switch produces a low-pitched sound with a hint of bassiness and a unique chirpy element, giving it a distinctive auditory signature. Both switches provide different sound profiles that cater to varying preferences, but ultimately deliver a pleasant typing experience depending on personal taste and environmental factors.
In terms of feel, the TTC Gold Brown Pro switch is described as polished, silky, mild, subtle, and stepped, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with gentle resistance and minimal sound resonance. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 switch offers a mild and polished feel, ensuring a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches deliver a comfortable and approachable typing feel suitable for a wide range of users, highlighting their versatility and refined tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences and typing styles. While the Gold Brown Pro provides a subdued and nuanced tactile experience with a thocky sound, the Ink Black V2 delivers a smooth linear feel with a low-pitched and bassy sound profile. Both switches excel in their own right, offering reliable performance and satisfying feedback to enhance the typing experience for enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, consider your preference for tactile feedback and sound profile. If you desire a subtle, nuanced tactile experience with minimal distraction and a subdued sound profile, the Gold Brown Pro is the ideal choice for staying focused on your tasks. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth downstroke with a rich clack sound and a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Ink Black V2 offers a classic linear switch option. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your personal typing style and preferences for tactile feedback and sound characteristics.
Mentioned in this article
