TTC Gold Silver vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Silver and the Gateron Mini i switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, one can appreciate the distinct qualities each brings to the table. The Gold Silver stands out for its rapid responsiveness, providing a decisive and solid bottom-out with each keystroke, accompanied by a resonant sound signature. In contrast, the Mini i offers a gentle tactility and muted sound profile, making it ideal for quiet office environments. While the Gold Silver excels in speed, sound, and fluidity, the Mini i focuses on comfortable typing and subtle feedback. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Silver and the Gateron Mini i switches offer different sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Gold Silver features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound when typing. In contrast, the Mini i utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. While the polycarbonate top housing is stiffer and more resonant, the nylon top housing is softer and absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound. Despite these differences, both switches offer unique acoustic qualities that cater to different preferences.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Gold Silver and the Mini i switches use nylon as the material. This results in a similar typing experience with a deep and full sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a dull and round sound when bottoming out the keys. While the top housing may play a significant role in the overall sound profile of a switch, the bottom housing also contributes to the tactile feedback and acoustics of typing. Therefore, having a consistent material like nylon for the bottom housing ensures a cohesive typing experience across the entire switch.
Overall, the choice between the Gold Silver and the Gateron Mini i switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel. The polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Silver offers a sharper and crisper sound profile, perfect for those who prefer a more distinct typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Mini i provides a deeper and fuller sound, appealing to those who enjoy a softer and more muted typing feel. Regardless of the differences in housing materials, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with unique acoustic qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience.
Weight
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 40 grams. However, the bottom out force for the Gold Silver switch is unknown, while the Mini i switch has a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it lighter in that aspect. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch may be the better option. In contrast, the TTC Gold Silver switch may appeal to users who prefer a slightly heavier actuation force for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to individual preference, with weight playing a significant role in determining the overall typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches offer a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm travel distance. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Gateron Mini i for faster response times, while those looking for a more substantial key press may prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the TTC Gold Silver. 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 Silver 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 Silver for $2.90.
The Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00 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
In terms of sound, the TTC Gold Silver switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched profile, delivering a deep and satisfying sound with each press. This sound, coupled with its neutral actuation force, provides a harmonious keyboard experience suitable for various settings. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i switch also offers a neutral sound profile, ensuring a moderate and versatile auditory experience that fits well in both professional and personal environments.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the TTC Gold Silver switch is polished and silky, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and enhanced key travel. Its mild and subtle characteristics make it approachable to a wide range of users. In contrast, the Gateron Mini i switch provides a bouncy and easy-to-press feel, with a mild and snappy touch that enhances typing responsiveness while minimizing finger fatigue during extended use. The subtle nature of the Mini i switch ensures a gentle resistance and a sound signature suitable for shared spaces.
Overall, while the Gold Silver and Mini i switches may have differing sound and feel characteristics, both provide an exceptional typing experience tailored to different preferences. The Gold Silver excels in rapid responsiveness with a thocky sound and silky feel, whereas the Gateron Mini i offers a gentler tactile experience with a bouncy sound and easy-to-press sensation. Depending on your preference for speed, sound, and typing feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to a variety of users, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of the choice made.
Conclusion
Therefore, when considering whether to choose the TTC Gold Silver linear switch or the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, you should think about your typing preferences and environment. If you prioritize speed, precision, and a satisfying sound profile, the Gold Silver switch would be an excellent choice for you. The TTC Gold Silver offers a thocky and low-pitched sound, with a polished and silky feel that enhances your typing experience. On the other hand, if you work in a quiet office setting and prefer a lightweight and gentle typing feel, the Gateron Mini i switch may be more suitable for you. The Mini i provides a subtle and neutral sound profile, with a bouncy and easy-to-press feel that minimizes finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what qualities are most important to you in a keyboard switch.
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