TTC Bluish White vs. HMX Twilight
An in-depth look at the TTC Bluish White and the HMX Twilight switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Bluish White and HMX Twilight offer distinct experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The Bluish White, a tactile switch, is renowned for its satisfying "poppy" feedback, providing a snappy sound profile that enhances the typing experience with every keystroke. Its smooth tactility and low-pitched sound make it an excellent choice for users who enjoy a more engaging and responsive typing experience, ideal for both typing and gaming. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight linear switch stands out with its extended 3.85mm travel distance, delivering a quieter output while preserving the signature clacky characteristics of HMX switches. This makes the Twilight perfect for users who prefer a smoother, uninterrupted keystroke without any tactile bump, allowing for rapid and fluid typing motion. Both switches have their unique merits depending on whether you prioritize auditory feedback or a quieter, more linear response. 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
42g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.85 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Bluish White and the HMX Twilight switches, it is clear that both utilize nylon in their bottom housings, creating a deep and rich sound profile. In both cases, nylon's softer, sound-absorbing qualities ensure that the switches produce a fuller auditory experience, contributing to a rounder and less piercing keypress. This similarity in bottom housing material means that users can expect a consistent bottoming-out feel and sound across both switch types, which is particularly appealing for those who prioritize auditory feedback in their typing experience.
However, the top housings of the two switches differ significantly, with the Bluish White employing polycarbonate while the Twilight features nylon. This contrast leads to differing sound profiles during key releases. The polycarbonate used in the Bluish White's top housing is stiffer and more resonant, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound when the keys are released. This material’s translucency also allows RGB lighting to shine through more effectively, making it a visually appealing choice for users who enjoy illuminated keyboards. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the HMX Twilight leads to a more muted sound when releasing the keys, contributing to a warmer and less bright auditory profile.
Ultimately, both switches provide unique experiences shaped by their individual material choices. While the shared nylon in the bottom housings ensures a consistent, rich sound quality for both switches, the differences in the top housing materials create distinct auditory qualities. Users seeking a sharper, more resonant sound may prefer the Bluish White with its polycarbonate top housing, while those who favor a deeper, rounder sound might opt for the HMX Twilight. Regardless of the choice, both switches have the potential to deliver satisfying results tailored to the user's preference, making them popular selections in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, both switches exhibit identical actuation and bottom out forces, with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This equivalence means users can expect a similar typing experience from both switches, making them suitable for extended typing sessions or long gaming stints due to their lighter weight. However, while both offer a light feel, it’s important for users to consider personal preferences; those favoring a softer touch might lean towards either option, while those preferring more substantial feedback might find these switches lacking. Overall, both the Bluish White and Twilight switches cater well to users who appreciate a lighter typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, there is a notable difference. The Bluish White has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Twilight boasts a slightly longer travel distance of 3.85 mm. This makes the Bluish White the shorter option between the two, appealing to those who may prefer quicker response times for gaming or fast typing due to its more concise actuation. In contrast, the Twilight, with its deeper travel distance, may provide a more substantial feel for users who enjoy a pronounced keystroke experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for either responsiveness or a more hearty depth in keystrokes.
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 Twilight has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Twilight 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 comparing the sound profiles of the TTC Bluish White and the HMX Twilight switches, the differences are notable. The Bluish White switch is characterized by a snappy sound profile with a low-pitched tone, providing a satisfying and bass-heavy auditory experience that many users find pleasant and lively. Conversely, the HMX Twilight switch is designed to be slightly quieter, maintaining the signature clacky characteristics of HMX switches while offering a more subdued auditory sensation. This quieter nature may be appealing to those who prefer a muted environment or seek to minimize disturbance in shared spaces, making them both suitable but distinctly different options in terms of audibility.
Regarding the feel of each switch, the TTC Bluish White stands out with a combination of qualities that delivers a buttery and polished typing experience. It offers a mild resistance with a subtle tactile feedback that feels well-rounded and approachable, even for newcomers. The tactile response is structured in a stepped manner, which allows typists to experience a gentle two-stage keystroke without overwhelming tactile feedback. This feature, combined with the smoothness of a polished finish, results in a satisfying and refined interaction. In contrast, the HMX Twilight switch is linear, meaning it lacks the tactile bump which is present in the Bluish White. While the feel of the Twilight switch is currently unknown, linear switches typically provide a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke experience, appealing to users who prefer fluidity over tactile feedback.
In conclusion, both the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch present unique advantages that cater to different typing preferences. The Bluish White excels in sound with its snappy, low-pitched tone and a tactile feel that provides a gentle yet engaging experience, while the Twilight offers a quieter operation suited for a low-noise environment with a potentially smooth keystroke. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize auditory feedback and tactility or prefer a more subdued and seamless typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you appreciate a snappy, tactile feedback and enjoy a slightly low-pitched sound profile, the Bluish White is an ideal option, particularly if you're looking for a satisfying typing experience that feels both buttery and polished. These switches are excellent for those who type frequently and prefer a sensation that has character without being overly aggressive. On the other hand, if you find yourself favoring a cleaner, smoother keystroke with a linear feel, the HMX Twilight is your go-to pick. Its extended travel distance and quieter operation make it a great choice for environments where noise might be a concern or for users who love a fluid typing experience without noticeable bumps. In essence, your decision should hinge on whether you value tactile feedback or a smoother linear response while keeping in mind the context in which you'll be using your keyboard.
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