TTC Gold Brown vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the TTC Gold Brown and the Durock T1. The Gold Brown switches are often praised for their balanced nature, delivering a satisfying but mild tactile bump. They offer a moderate weightiness and have a rounded sound profile that is softer compared to many other switches, without being completely silent. On the other hand, the T1 switches are known for their super comfortable typing experience. They feature a medium bump when pressed, and the sound they produce is reminiscent of rain falling on a windowpane. While these generalities provide a glimpse into the characteristics of each switch, let's delve deeper to help you make the best decision for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Polycarbonate
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 the Durock T1 switches share similarities when it comes to their housing materials. Both switches incorporate polycarbonate in their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic, enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that are intended to be used with RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and aesthetic appeal when utilizing either of these switches.
On the other hand, the switches differ in their choice of material for the bottom housing. The Gold Brown employs a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Alternatively, the T1 also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a similar effect of evoking a deeper and fuller sound. This is due to nylon's characteristic of being a relatively softer plastic, allowing for greater sound absorption than harder plastics. As a result, both switches are capable of creating a duller and rounder sound, with the bottom housing playing a significant role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
In summary, while the TTC Gold Brown and the Durock T1 switches utilize the same polycarbonate material for their top housing, they differ in the material used for their bottom housing. However, both switches deliver similar sound characteristics, with the polycarbonate top housing enhancing the overall sound profile, and the nylon bottom housing contributing to a deeper and fuller sound. Regardless of the specific differences, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch variant.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, there are some similarities and differences regarding their actuation force and bottom out force. The TTC Gold Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams, while the actuation force of the Durock T1 is not available. This means that the actuation force for the T1 is unknown. Moving on to the bottom out force, the Gold Brown requires 63 grams of force to bottom out, whereas the Durock T1 requires 67 grams. This indicates that the T1 is slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force compared to the Gold Brown.
Considering weight, some individuals prefer lighter switches to enable longer typing sessions, making them ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. This lighter weight allows for easier key actuation and reduces fatigue. On the other hand, some users prefer a heavier push feel to provide a more substantial typing experience. These individuals would benefit from switches with heavier forces, as it provides a greater resistance and feedback during typing.
In terms of actuation force, as the value for the T1 is unknown, it is difficult to directly compare it to the 55 grams of the Gold Brown. However, since both switches fall within the medium actuation force range, it can be presumed that they may provide similar results when it comes to triggering keystrokes.
Overall, while the Gold Brown has a known actuation force and bottom out force, the T1 has an unknown actuation force but a slightly heavier bottom out force. It ultimately depends on individual preference, with the Gold Brown offering a medium actuation force and medium bottom out force, and the T1 potentially offering a comparable actuation force but a slightly heavier bottom out force.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same amount of distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, both switches will provide similar results in terms of the travel distance felt when typing. It is worth noting that the 4 mm travel distance is considered to be standard for many tactile switches, so neither the TTC Gold Brown nor the Durock T1 stands out as being shorter or longer in this aspect.
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 Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch has a rounded sound profile that is generally much softer than most switches, without being completely silent. This makes it suitable for both beginners and advanced users, as well as for use in various settings such as at home or work. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch has a low-pitched sound, which gives it a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Similar to the Gold Brown, the T1 also has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for most purposes. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the choice of board and keycaps, so individual results may vary.
When it comes to feel, the Gold Brown tactile switch offers a mild and approachable typing experience. With a gentle bump and a moderate weightiness, it strikes a balanced middle-ground zone that many users find comfortable. The switch can be described as buttery, indicating a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that feels seamless and effortless. Its accented characteristics provide a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. Additionally, the switch has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Durock T1 tactile switch also features accented characteristics, providing a medium level of tactility that is noticeable but not excessive. It offers a polished finish as well, ensuring a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. However, the T1 is described as stepped, meaning it has a two-stage feel with noticeable pre-travel and/or post-travel. This can contribute to a different typing experience compared to the Gold Brown.
Taking all the available information into account, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch both offer balanced qualities that many users appreciate. They provide comfortable typing experiences with tactile feedback that falls in a moderate range. While the Gold Brown has a softer and more rounded sound profile, the T1 has a low-pitched sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window. Both switches offer a buttery feel with a polished finish, resulting in smooth and refined key travel. Overall, these switches provide similar results in terms of sound and feel but may vary slightly due to individual preferences and other factors such as keycaps and keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a well-balanced switch with a moderate weightiness and a slight, satisfying bump, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch would be a great choice for you. These switches offer a comfortable typing experience and have a rounded sound profile that is softer than most switches. They have a bottom out force of 63 grams, which is medium.
On the other hand, if you prioritize comfort and enjoy a medium bump when typing, the Durock T1 tactile switch would be a suitable option for you. These switches are described as super comfortable to type on and have a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window. They have a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is medium-heavy.
In terms of sound, the Gold Brown has a neutral sound profile that is suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or an advanced user and whether you plan to use the switches at home or work. The T1, on the other hand, has a low-pitched sound profile with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches.
In terms of feel, the Gold Brown provides a mild and approachable typing experience, with a smooth and fluid keystroke. These switches offer a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. The T1, on the other hand, has a stepped feel with two stages of tactility. Like the Gold Brown, it also offers a polished finish for a sleek typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between TTC Gold Brown and Durock T1 switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style. Both switches have their unique features and characteristics, so it's important to consider factors such as the desired weight, bump, sound profile, and overall typing experience before making a decision.
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