TTC Gold Silver vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Silver and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Silver and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° both offer unique advantages. The Gold Silver is praised for its rapid responsiveness, providing a satisfyingly solid bottom-out with each keystroke and a harmonious sound signature. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° by Gateron stands out for its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, resulting in unmatched smoothness, stability, and quiet typing experience. While the Gold Silver excels in speed, sound, and fluidity, the Zero Degree 0° prioritizes silent typing and tactile 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
Both the TTC Gold Silver and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting, as it allows the lighting effects to shine through. This shared feature in both switches ensures that users can expect similar sound characteristics and aesthetic benefits when using either the Gold Silver or the Zero Degree 0°.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the TTC Gold Silver utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° also incorporates a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to other plastics, as it is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This means that both switches will provide a unique typing experience with a distinct sound signature attributed to the nylon bottom housing. Despite having different top housings, the shared nylon bottom housing material ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound depth and resonance between the TTC Gold Silver and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°.
In terms of functionality, the qualities of the top and bottom housing materials play a crucial role in the overall typing experience of a switch. The bottom housing material influences the impact and bottom-out sound when a key is pressed, while the top housing material has a greater impact on the sound produced when a key is released. By understanding how each housing material contributes to the sound profile and tactile feedback of a switch, users can better appreciate the nuances and differences between switches like the TTC Gold Silver and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, even if they share certain materials in their construction.
Weight
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch have identical actuation forces of 45 grams, making them equally light to press when triggering a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, both switches have an unknown value, meaning it is difficult to determine which one is heavier. In terms of weight, some may prefer the lighter actuation force of these switches for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions, while others may prefer a heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference based on the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Zero Degree switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Gold Silver switch. Both of these switches fall within the shorter range of travel distances, which are popular among gamers for faster response times. Choosing between the two would depend on personal preference - those who prefer a slightly deeper key press may opt for the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch, while those who prefer a slightly shallower press may lean towards the TTC Gold Silver switch. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of distance traveled when pressed down.
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 Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, delivering a deep and satisfying sound with a moderate actuation force requirement. This switch provides a smooth and polished feel, offering a refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is designed to be silent, absorbing sound and reducing noise with its innovative self-padding design. While the sound and feel of the Zero Degree 0° switch are not explicitly described, it is focused on providing unparalleled smoothness and stability with a soft, elastic feel.
In conclusion, both the TTC Gold Silver and Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Gold Silver excels in providing a thocky sound and a polished typing experience, ideal for those seeking a tactile response and refined feel. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° switch prioritizes silence and smoothness, perfect for those looking for a quiet and stable typing experience. Overall, selecting between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both in your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, you should consider your priorities and preferences. If you value rapid responsiveness, precise keystrokes, and a resonant sound profile, the TTC Gold Silver may be the optimal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize smoothness, stability, and a quieter typing experience, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° could be the ideal fit. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different needs, so it ultimately comes down to what you value most in a keyboard switch. Experimenting with both options can help you determine which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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