Gateron Aliaz vs. TTC Honey
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the TTC Honey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron Aliaz and TTC Honey are two popular mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique typing experiences. The Aliaz switch is a tactile option, known for its quiet operation and medium-heavy weight that provides a satisfying keystroke feel. It is ideal for those who prefer a pronounced typing feedback without the noise, making it suitable for office environments. On the other hand, the TTC Honey is a linear switch that boasts a smooth and creamy typing experience, with a deep and pleasant sound profile. This switch is categorized as 'Subdued', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', 'Buttery', 'Subtle', and 'Polished'. Both switches have their own strengths and advantages, but 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
60g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
25.5 mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Aliaz and TTC Honey both utilize polycarbonate material for their top and bottom housing components, resulting in a similar sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate plastic contributes to a clear and resonant sound experience, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a more tactile typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the switches.
While both the Aliaz and Honey switches share the same polycarbonate housing material, their differences may lie in the design and construction of the switches. The placement of the polycarbonate top and bottom housings in each switch may affect the overall sound profile and typing feel. For instance, the bottom housing of a switch typically influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing may have a greater impact on the sound when a key is released. These subtle differences could result in variations in typing feedback and overall user experience between the two switches.
In conclusion, the similarities between the Gateron Aliaz and TTC Honey switches in terms of their polycarbonate housing materials allow for a consistent typing experience in terms of sound profile and aesthetic appeal. However, potential differences in the design and placement of these housing components may lead to variations in typing feedback and overall user experience. Ultimately, personal preference and typing style may play a significant role in determining which switch is the preferred choice for each individual user.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the TTC Honey linear switch, it is evident that the Aliaz is heavier in terms of actuation and bottom out force compared to the Honey switch. The Aliaz has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, making it a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Honey switch has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it lighter and more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions where fatigue may be a concern. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation force and bottom out force, with the Aliaz offering a heavier feel and the Honey providing a lighter touch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the TTC Honey linear switch, it becomes evident that the Aliaz has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Honey offers a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. While the Aliaz provides a more traditional travel distance, the Honey offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Honey for faster response times, while those who prefer a deeper key press may opt for the Aliaz. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The TTC Honey has an MSRP of $9.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey for $6.78.
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 Gateron Aliaz switch is known for its muted sound profile, which minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, making it ideal for quiet environments like an office. On the other hand, the TTC Honey switch is described as offering a subdued sound, providing a dampened sound when pressed, but not completely silent. Both switches aim to provide a more subtle and pleasant typing experience compared to other switches on the market, with the Honey having a deeper sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Aliaz switch is characterized by its silky and polished typing experience, offering an exceptionally smooth and refined finish that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Conversely, the TTC Honey switch is known for its creamy, frictionless, and buttery typing experience, providing a smooth and effortless keystroke sensation that glides across the keys with ease. Both switches prioritize smoothness and reduced friction in their design, enhancing the overall typing feel for the user.
Overall, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the TTC Honey linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Aliaz provides a medium-heavy weight and a more pronounced typing feedback in a silent design, catering to those who prefer a substantial feel without the noise. On the other hand, the Honey switch offers a smooth and creamy typing experience with a deep and pleasant sound profile, focusing on providing a pleasurable and effortless keystroke sensation. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference in sound, feel, and typing style, but both are sure to provide a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the TTC Honey linear switch, consider the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard. If you require a quieter option for an office setting or shared space, the Aliaz switches with their muted sound and substantial feel are an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and creamy typing experience with a pleasant sound profile, the Honey switches would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for typing feel, sound profile, and the specific requirements of your typing environment. Regardless of your choice, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and needs.
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