TTC Flaming Pink vs. HMX SU

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, both the TTC Flaming Pink and HMX SU stand out as compelling linear options tailored for different preferences. The TTC Flaming Pink is celebrated for its smooth, responsive feel and satisfying bottom-out sound, making it a versatile choice for gamers and typists alike who appreciate a brighter, yet not too loud auditory experience. In contrast, the HMX SU features a sturdy PA12 housing and a T5 stem, delivering a subtle yet relatively deep sound profile that appeals to users seeking a more muted, refined keystroke. Both switches provide a premium typing experience, but they cater to varied sensibilities in sound and touch. Ultimately, each switch has its unique attributes designed to enhance your keyboard experience; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

TTC Flaming Pink Linear

HMX SU Linear

$4.29

$4.00 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Flaming Pink and the HMX SU switches, one marked difference is evident in their top housings. The Flaming Pink utilizes polycarbonate, a material known for its rigidity and translucency, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This characteristic makes polycarbonate ideal for RGB lighting applications, as its clarity allows for vibrant illumination through the switch. In stark contrast, the HMX SU features a nylon top housing, which is associated with a fuller, deeper sound due to the material's softer composition that absorbs sound more effectively. Thus, while the Flaming Pink is designed to amplify brightness and clarity of sound, the SU focuses on adding warmth and depth, providing distinctly different auditory experiences.

Both switches, however, share a similarity in their bottom housing, as both use nylon. This commonality means that the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on either switch will be relatively similar, as nylon’s sound-absorbing properties create a consistent, duller sound profile. Such a shared characteristic ensures that even though the top housings differ significantly, users can expect a similar tactile sensation when bottoming out, contributing to an overall satisfying typing experience. That said, the impact of the nylon bottom housing is heightened since it dominates the sound profile when the key is fully pressed.

In summary, while the TTC Flaming Pink and the HMX SU switches present contrasting top housing materials that lead to distinct sound profiles—one being clear and bright, and the other, warmer and duller—their shared use of nylon in the bottom housing harmonizes their bottom-out experiences. This distinction highlights how varying materials can influence different aspects of keyboard performance and sound, while also showing that an effective combination of materials can bring together different auditory qualities to enrich user experience. Ultimately, understanding the properties of each material helps consumers make informed choices based on their preferences for sound, aesthetics, and typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, we find some intriguing similarities and slight differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Flaming Pink has an actuation force of 43 grams, while the SU slightly increases that requirement to 45 grams; both are categorized as light switches. Interestingly, both switches share the same bottom out force of 50 grams, meaning they will have a similar feel at their maximum travel distance. With the Flaming Pink being marginally lighter in terms of actuation force, it may be preferred by users who typify for extended periods or enjoy a more delicate touch in their typing experience. Conversely, users who appreciate a sturdier push may find the slightly heavier actuation force of the HMX SU more appealing, as it offers a bit more resistance while typing. Ultimately, while both switches provide a light touch, the Flaming Pink will feel lighter overall due to its lower actuation force.

Travel distance

The TTC Flaming Pink linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch both feature a travel distance of 3.6 mm, indicating that they will provide a similar tactile experience when pressing down on a key. This identical travel distance means that users can expect comparable feedback and responsiveness from both switches, leading to a consistent typing experience. Since both switches have the same travel distance, there is no shorter or longer option between them, which can be advantageous for those seeking uniformity in their keyboard feel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the TTC Flaming Pink switch offers a bright yet not overly loud sound profile, striking a balance that makes it versatile for both gaming and office environments. This creates a pleasing auditory experience, resulting in a satisfying bottom-out noise during key presses. In contrast, the HMX SU linear switch features a subtle, relatively deep sound profile, diffusing a more muted acoustic experience. While the Flaming Pink's sound is crisp and engaging, the SU's deeper tones can provide a more subdued auditory feedback. It's worth noting that the overall sound of both switches can still vary based on the choice of keyboard and keycaps, but generally, the Flaming Pink leans towards more brightness while the SU offers a richer, deeper resonance.

When it comes to feel, the Flaming Pink is celebrated for its smooth and responsive action, giving users a premium typing experience that feels great whether gaming or typing. Its design ensures that keystrokes are effortless, contributing to a seamless interaction. On the other hand, the HMX SU linear switch also offers a smooth feel due to its T5 stem, but details about its specific tactile response haven't been provided. However, based on its construction, it can be anticipated that the SU would also provide a steady and pleasant feel, making it suitable for extended use, though it may differ slightly from the Flaming Pink in terms of overall responsiveness.

In conclusion, while both the TTC Flaming Pink and HMX SU switches are linear switches designed to provide smooth keystrokes, they offer distinct sound and feel characteristics. The Flaming Pink stands out with its bright, satisfying sound and responsive feel, making it a strong candidate for those who value auditory feedback and a premium typing experience. The SU, with its deeper sound profile, accommodates a different auditory preference, while its tactile feedback also suggests that it would deliver a solid typing experience. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences, but whichever you choose, you can expect quality and performance suitable for a range of applications.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch ultimately depends on your unique preferences and usage scenarios. If you value a smooth and responsive typing experience coupled with a bright but not overly loud sound profile, the Flaming Pink switch would be an excellent choice. It excels in both gaming and everyday tasks, making it versatile for various applications. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subdued yet deep sound profile, the HMX SU switches might be more appealing, especially if you’re after a tactile experience that resonates well with a consistent feel. Both switches have a bottom-out force of 50 grams, making them light and comfortable for prolonged use. Overall, if your focus is on a premium and engaging typing experience, go for the Flaming Pink, while if you seek a more muted sound with reliable performance, the HMX SU would serve you well.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Flaming Pink Linear

$4.29

$4.00 per 10

Learn more

HMX SU Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more