HMX Cheese vs. TTC Gold Brown Pro
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the TTC Gold Brown Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cheese linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch offer unique typing experiences. The HMX Cheese switch is praised for its smoothness and light actuation, providing a satisfying clacky sound with each press. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown Pro switch offers a subtle tactile bump for nuanced feedback, while maintaining a quiet keystroke sound profile. If you prefer a light and crisp typing experience, the HMX Cheese switch may be the way to go. However, if you value a more understated tactile feedback with minimal distraction, the TTC Gold Brown Pro switch could be the better choice. 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
NPI
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The HMX Cheese and TTC Gold Brown Pro both utilize nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a similar deep and full sound profile. Since nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, both switches offer a duller and rounder sound when typing. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel when comparing the bottom housing of these switches.
In contrast, the top housing materials differ between the two switches, with the Cheese featuring a nylon top housing and the Gold Brown Pro utilizing a polycarbonate top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Brown Pro creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Cheese's duller and rounder sound from the nylon top housing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing option for those looking to customize their keyboards.
Overall, while both switches share the same bottom housing material, the difference in top housing materials results in distinct sound profiles. The HMX Cheese with its nylon top housing provides a softer and more absorbent sound, while the TTC Gold Brown Pro's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and clearer sound. Depending on individual preferences for sound and aesthetics, users can choose between these two switches to achieve the desired typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force of the HMX Cheese linear switch is 43 grams, while the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, making the Gold Brown Pro slightly heavier. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cheese requires 46 grams compared to the Gold Brown Pro's unknown force. This means that the Cheese is also heavier in terms of bottoming out. Both switches provide a light typing experience, with the Gold Brown Pro potentially offering a slightly more substantial push feel. Ultimately, those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the HMX Cheese, while those who prefer a bit more weight in their keystrokes may lean towards the TTC Gold Brown Pro.
Travel distance
The HMX Cheese linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for faster response times. The 0.3 mm difference between the two may not be significant to most users, but those who prefer a slightly deeper key press may find the Gold Brown Pro more to their liking. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for tactility and the feel of the keypress.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cheese has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cheese for $3.79.
The TTC Gold Brown Pro 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 Brown Pro for $2.90.
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 HMX Cheese linear switch offers a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound with each keystroke, which can add a sense of precision and satisfaction to your typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch is described as having a thocky, low-pitched, and neutral sound profile, making it a great option for those who prefer a quieter and more subdued typing experience. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, so the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference and the type of sound you enjoy while typing.
In terms of feel, the HMX Cheese switches are reported to offer an unparalleled smoothness, which can enhance the overall typing feel and reduce resistance when pressing and releasing keys. In contrast, the TTC Gold Brown Pro switches are described as polished, silky, mild, subtle, and stepped, providing a gentle yet refined typing experience that is suitable for shared spaces and offers a slight tactile feedback without being overly pronounced. Both switches provide a unique tactile experience that can cater to different preferences, so deciding between them will depend on the level of tactility and smoothness you prefer while typing.
Overall, the HMX Cheese linear switch and TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch offer distinct qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The HMX Cheese provides a more audible and smooth typing experience, while the TTC Gold Brown Pro offers a softer and more nuanced typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel, as both switches are designed to enhance your typing experience in their own unique ways. Consider trying out both switches to see which one resonates with your typing style and preferences the most.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch, consider the following guidelines based on your preferences. If you value a light typing experience with a satisfying clacky sound and ultra-smooth feel, the HMX Cheese linear switch may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a subtle and nuanced tactile feedback with a subdued sound profile for a more immersive typing experience, the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch would be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a light and smooth typing experience or a gentle tactile feedback with minimal distraction. Consider your typing preferences and environment to choose the switch that best fits your needs.
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