TTC Bluish White vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the TTC Bluish White and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Bluish White and HMX SU offer distinct experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The TTC Bluish White is a tactile switch renowned for its satisfyingly poppy typing experience, characterized by a snappy low-pitched sound profile. This makes it an excellent choice for typists who enjoy a responsive feedback during each keystroke, adding a layer of auditory and tactile satisfaction that can enhance productivity and enjoyment. In contrast, the HMX SU serves as a linear switch that features a full PA12 housing and a T5 stem, delivering a subtle yet relatively deep sound profile. This makes the HMX SU ideal for those who prefer a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke without the tactile bump. Both switches cater to different user preferences, whether you're seeking the tactile feedback of the Bluish White or the fluidity of the HMX SU. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing style and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T5
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Bluish White and the HMX SU switches showcase distinct characteristics that influence their auditory profiles and tactile experiences. The TTC Bluish White features a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound due to the material's rigidity. This property allows for a clear and resonant sound profile that enhances the experience, particularly with RGB lighting due to the housing's translucency. In contrast, the HMX SU employs a nylon top housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing sound waves and creating a rounder auditory experience. This fundamental difference in the top housing materials marks a clear juxtaposition between the two switches, catering to different preferences among users.
While the top housing materials differ, both the TTC Bluish White and the HMX SU share the same material—nylon—in their bottom housings. This similarity leads to a unified auditory experience when bottoming out the switches, as both utilize the inherent properties of nylon to create a duller and rounder sound. When typing, users will find that the bottom houses of both switches impart a consistent sound profile and feel, contributing to overall comfort and feedback through a softer impact upon key presses. This shared aspect highlights how the design choices in bottom housings can mitigate some differences created by the contrasting top housings.
In terms of the overall sound profile produced, the differences in the top housings can overshadow the similarities offered by the bottom housings. While the TTC Bluish White delivers a crisper sound when releasing keys due to its polycarbonate material, the HMX SU will provide a rounder, fuller sound in the same scenario because of its nylon top housing. However, when it comes to the bottoming-out experience, both switches will present a similar auditory sensation attributed to their shared nylon composition. Thus, users who enjoy the broader sound profile of nylon will appreciate the consistent feel and sound between both switches, despite their varying top housing materials and corresponding sound outputs.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Bluish White tactile switch to the HMX SU linear switch, both switches exhibit similar bottom-out forces, with each requiring 50 grams of pressure to reach that point. However, the TTC Bluish White has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, whereas the HMX SU necessitates a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. This difference means that while both switches provide a comparable final resistance when fully pressed, the Bluish White requires less effort to register a keystroke. Consequently, users who favor a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions might prefer the TTC Bluish White for its lower actuation force, while those who appreciate a more substantial feel through a heavier push might lean towards the HMX SU. Overall, the Bluish White is the lighter option, making it potentially more comfortable for prolonged use, while the HMX SU offers a slightly firmer typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the TTC Bluish White tactile switch measures 3.5 mm, while the HMX SU linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the HMX SU offers a marginally greater depth when pressed, which may appeal to users who appreciate a more pronounced keystroke experience. Conversely, the TTC Bluish White, with its shorter travel distance, may be more suitable for gamers seeking quicker response times that facilitate rapid key presses. While both switches provide a relatively shallow travel compared to traditional switches (which usually have a travel distance of 4.0 mm), the Bluish White’s travel distance is preferable for those who favor a more immediate tactile response. Ultimately, if a user prioritizes speed, the TTC Bluish White would be the better choice due to its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a robust keystroke might lean toward the slightly longer HMX SU.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Bluish White has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bluish White for $4.63.
The HMX SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU for $3.29.
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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch is characterized by a snappy, low-pitched sound profile, which provides a satisfying auditory feedback that adds to the overall typing experience. This low-pitched quality often lends itself to a bass-heavy and mellow tone, making it distinctly enjoyable for users who appreciate a more pronounced audio feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the HMX SU linear switch features a subtle, relatively deep sound profile, which suggests a quieter and less intrusive typing experience. This deeper sound likely minimizes disturbances, making it suitable for office or shared environments. Therefore, while both switches yield different auditory experiences—the Bluish White being more distinctive and poppy, and the SU more subdued—both can produce satisfying results depending on the user's preference for sound.
In terms of feel, the Bluish White switches offer a range of tactile sensations. They have a buttery smoothness that translates to a seamless typing experience, complemented by a mild touch that keeps the overall typing experience approachable. The stepped tactile feedback of the Bluish White offers two distinct stages during each keystroke, making it easier to discern activation without the aggressiveness of hypertactile switches. This blend of subtlety and polish provides a refined typing experience that balances tactile feedback with ease of use. Unfortunately, the HMX SU linear switch lacks detailed descriptions regarding its feel, so there is limited information available for comparison. However, given that it is a linear switch, it can be anticipated that it will provide a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke without the tactile bumps that characterize the Bluish White.
In conclusion, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch delivers a rich sound profile and diverse tactile feedback, making it an excellent choice for users seeking a lively typing experience with nuanced tactile sensations. The HMX SU linear switch, while providing a deep but subtle sound, appears to support a smooth typing experience, although more specifics about its tactile qualities are unknown. Both switches cater to different preferences in typing sound and feel: the Bluish White for a more vibrant auditory and tactile engagement, and the SU for those favoring a minimalist and quiet experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you lean towards tactile feedback and sound or favor a smoother, quieter operation.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the HMX SU linear switch largely depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you enjoy a tactile typing experience that's both satisfying and involves a snappy sound profile, the Bluish White is an excellent option. Its light bottom-out force paired with a buttery feel makes it ideal for those who appreciate a gentle touch but still desire feedback with every keystroke. This switch is particularly well-suited for typists and gamers alike who want an engaging and responsive experience, especially in environments where sound may not be an issue due to its relatively low-pitched auditory signature.
On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, more fluid typing experience without the tactile bump, the HMX SU linear switch is the better choice. Its full PA12 housing and deeper sound profile deliver a uniquely satisfying feel while remaining relatively subtle, making it perfect for quiet workspaces or shared environments. With the same light bottom-out force, it allows for fast and efficient typing without the distraction of tactile feedback. Thus, your decision ultimately rests on whether you favor a poppy and tactile experience or a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke. By considering these factors, you can select the switch that aligns best with your personal typing style.
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