TTC Gold Brown vs. SP-Star Meteor White
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the SP-Star Meteor White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the TTC Gold Brown and the SP-Star Meteor White. The Gold Brown switch is often praised for its balanced nature, providing a slight, satisfying bump with a moderate weightiness. It offers a softer sound profile compared to other switches without being completely silent. On the other hand, the Meteor White switch is known for its subdued and gentle linear action. It is effortless to push and emits a pitter-patter sound, resulting in a very soft typing experience. While both switches fall under the categories of 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished', the Gold Brown offers a 'Buttery' and 'Accented' feel, while the Meteor White leans towards a 'Thocky' sensation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
57g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
Gold plated
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Brown and SP-Star Meteor White both have different housing materials for both the top and bottom of the switch. The Gold Brown utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Its stiffer plastic composition allows for a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for those who prioritize sound quality. In contrast, the Meteor White features a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While both materials have their unique sound characteristics, it ultimately depends on personal preference and the desired sound profile.
When it comes to the bottom housing of the switches, both the Gold Brown and the Meteor White utilize nylon. This classic switch housing material further enhances the sound profile of the switches, eliciting a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, regardless of the switch you choose, the bottom housing's qualities will contribute to the overall sound when the key is pressed down. The tactile experience and bottom-out sound will be influenced by the nylon bottom housing.
While the Gold Brown and Meteor White may differ in their housing materials, both bring their own unique qualities to the typing or gaming experience. The Gold Brown's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and more resonant sound, while the Meteor White's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound. Similarly, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for sound and typing experience. However, both switches guarantee a high-quality housing material that contributes to the overall sound profile and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, there are some notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Gold Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams, while the exact actuation force of the Meteor White is unavailable. However, both switches have a medium level of actuation force.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Gold Brown requires 63 grams of force to fully depress the keys, whereas the Meteor White has a lighter bottom out force of 57 grams, making it medium-light.
Considering weight as a factor, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Meteor White switch, as its lower actuation and bottom out forces allow for smoother and potentially longer typing sessions. This lighter feel might be particularly appealing to individuals using the keyboard for work or engaging in extended gaming sessions.
However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Gold Brown switch might be the preferable option. Its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces provide a more satisfying keystroke for those seeking a tactile response and a sense of precision while typing.
Overall, the choice between these switches largely depends on personal preference. Individuals seeking lighter and smoother typing experiences may lean towards the Meteor White, while those desiring a more substantial and tactile feel might prefer the Gold Brown switch.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Whether you choose the Gold Brown or the Meteor White, you can expect similar results when it comes to the tactile feedback and overall typing experience. So, in terms of travel distance, both switches offer an equal amount of key travel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown for $3.28.
The SP-Star Meteor White has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor White for $5.00.
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
In terms of sound, both the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch have a neutral sound profile. This means that they have a moderate sound level that is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced keyboard user, and whether you use them at home or work. The Gold Brown switch has a rounded sound profile that is generally softer than most switches, while the Meteor White switch offers a gentle pitter-patter sound.
When it comes to feel, both switches provide a mild typing experience. They offer a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. This makes the sound and feel approachable to most users, as their qualities fall in a safe, middle-ground zone. The Gold Brown switch is described as buttery and polished, providing a smooth and uniform typing sensation. It is also accented, meaning it has a medium level of tactility that is not overpowering or subtle. The Meteor White switch is also polished, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Based on the available information, the Gold Brown tactile switch and Meteor White linear switch share similar qualities in terms of sound and feel. Both switches offer a moderate sound profile and a mild typing experience. They provide a balanced and soft sound, with the Gold Brown switch having a slightly more rounded sound profile. Both switches also have a polished finish, resulting in smoother key travel. Overall, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a balanced sound and a slightly more rounded profile, the Gold Brown would be a good choice. Meanwhile, if you prefer a linear switch with a gentle sound and a polished feel, the Meteor White would be a suitable option.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prioritize a balanced switch with a slight, satisfying bump and a moderate weightiness, the Gold Brown is a great choice. It offers a rounded, softer sound profile and a mild, buttery, accented, and polished feel, providing a polished and effortless typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more gentle, subdued switch that is easy to push and offers a pitter-patter sound profile, the Meteor White is worth considering. It has a medium-light bottom out force, making it suitable for most intents and purposes. With a mild and polished feel, this switch also delivers a sleek and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Both switches offer a neutral sound profile and a moderate actuation force requirement, making them suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether used at home or in a professional setting. Ultimately, the decision boils down to whether you prefer a slight bump and weightiness (Gold Brown) or a gentle linear feel (Meteor White).
In the end, it is recommended to try out both switches if possible, as personal preference can vary significantly. By considering the unique characteristics and qualities of each switch, you can make an informed decision and find the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for your individual typing needs and preferences.
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