TTC Gold Brown Pro vs. HMX Jelly
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the HMX Jelly switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the decision often narrows down to personal preference, particularly between tactile and linear options. The TTC Gold Brown Pro stands out as a tactile switch that provides a gentle tactile bump, allowing typists to enjoy subtle feedback without the distraction of loud keystrokes. Its polished and silky characteristics deliver a smooth typing experience, making it ideal for those who appreciate an understated touch while maintaining focus on their tasks. In contrast, the HMX Jelly switches present a linear typing experience characterized by their low-pitched, thocky sound profile and lightweight 42g actuation force, offering an exceptionally smooth keypress without the tactile feedback. This makes the Jelly switches perfect for gamers or heavy typers who prefer a seamless, uninterrupted motion. While the Gold Brown Pro caters to users seeking a nuanced and quiet feedback, the HMX Jelly excels in providing an effortless glide with a satisfying auditory presence. 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
45g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
Stem material
T2
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
18mm spring
Spring
22mm extended single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the HMX Jelly, the housing materials used in each switch offer distinct acoustic properties that affect the overall typing experience. The Gold Brown Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced when the switch is engaged. Furthermore, its translucency allows RGB lighting to shine through, creating a visually appealing aesthetic for users who prioritize illumination in their keyboard setups. In contrast, the HMX Jelly opts for a nylon top housing, which is a classic choice that yields a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon dampens sound more effectively, resulting in a duller yet rounder auditory experience that can appeal to users seeking a more muted response.
Both switches share a commonality in their bottom housing, as both the Gold Brown Pro and the Jelly utilize nylon for this component. This presents an interesting dynamic in sound production, as the bottom housing significantly impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. The nylon used in both switches contributes to a deeper and rounder sound profile, thanks to its ability to absorb sound effectively. Consequently, when users engage either switch, they will likely experience a similar auditory warmth and depth in the bottom-out action, which can render both switches an appealing choice for those who enjoy a full typing experience.
In summary, while the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the HMX Jelly differ in their top housing materials—polycarbonate for the former and nylon for the latter—their shared nylon bottom housing means that they will ultimately deliver a comparable auditory signature during key presses. The polycarbonate top on the Gold Brown Pro may offer an enhanced clarity and resonance in the sound produced during key release, while the Jelly's nylon top will lend a softer, more subdued audio response. Therefore, while the switches may cater to different preferences in sound profile and aesthetics, they converge in providing a well-rounded typing experience owing to their identical bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the HMX Jelly linear switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces that may appeal to different typing preferences. The Gold Brown Pro has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it slightly heavier than the HMX Jelly's actuation force of 42 grams, which may provide a gentler touch for users who favor lighter switches for prolonged typing sessions or gaming marathons. However, the bottom out force for the Gold Brown Pro is unavailable, while the Jelly switch features a bottom out force of 48 grams, indicating it provides a more substantial feedback when pressed down completely. This heavier bottom out force in the Jelly could be preferable for users who enjoy a solid and decisive typing experience. In conclusion, the TTC Gold Brown Pro is the heavier option regarding actuation force, while the HMX Jelly offers a lighter actuation and a distinct bottom out feel.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the HMX Jelly linear switch both feature a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making their travel distances equal. This similarity means that users can expect a comparable feel when pressing down on keys equipped with either switch. Since both switches have the same travel distance, they will deliver similar tactile feedback and response during use, ensuring a consistent typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The HMX Jelly has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jelly for $2.99.
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 TTC Gold Brown Pro switch offers a very subdued acoustic experience, allowing for a near-silent operation. Its low-pitched and neutral sound profile makes it perfect for environments where noise might be distracting, combining a mellow tone with a soft feedback that keeps typing discreet. The thocky nature attributed to this switch produces a mild resonance, which is satisfying without being overwhelming. Conversely, the HMX Jelly linear switch features a low-pitched and deep sound signature that is also described as thocky, producing louder and richer acoustic feedback. The Jelly switch’s deeper tones contribute to a more pronounced auditory experience, offering a stark contrast for those who enjoy a more auditory typing journey. Ultimately, if sound is a main consideration, choosing between these two will depend heavily on the setting and personal preference—whether to maintain silence with the Gold Brown Pro or embrace the tuneful thock of the Jelly.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Brown Pro is well-regarded for its polished and silky typing experience. This switch caters to users who appreciate a refined, smooth operation, with a tactile bump that is mild and subtle. The stepped nature of the tactile feedback provides noticeable engagement without overwhelming the typist, making it suitable for long typing sessions where comfort is paramount. In contrast, specifics on the feel of the HMX Jelly linear switch are not provided. However, linear switches typically offer a smooth, uninterrupted motion without any tactile feedback, which may appeal to users who prefer a more fluid typing experience devoid of noticeable bumps. Depending on one’s typing style preference—whether someone enjoys subtle tactile feedback or the seamless action of a linear switch—this will play a significant role in selecting between the two.
In conclusion, both the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the HMX Jelly linear switch cater to different user preferences regarding sound and feel. The Gold Brown Pro excels in environments where discretion is key, combining a gentle tactile experience with an understated acoustic profile. On the other hand, the Jelly switch provides a richer auditory experience, with a deeper sound that might appeal to those who enjoy more pronounced auditory feedback. Ultimately, your choice should align with your typing habits, sound preferences, and the environment in which you will primarily be using the keyboard. Each switch offers distinct qualities that cater to a variety of needs, ensuring that users can find something that resonates with their personal typing style.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the HMX Jelly linear switch will largely depend on your personal typing preferences and the context in which you’ll be using your keyboard. If you’re someone who appreciates a more nuanced tactile experience, the Gold Brown Pro is an excellent option. Its gentle tactile bump and subdued sound profile make it ideal for typing in quiet environments, allowing you to stay focused without being distracted by noise or overt tactile feedback. This switch is particularly well-suited for typing tasks, programming, or any situation where you might value a smooth yet responsive feel without the interruption of louder clicks.
On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, linear feel with a satisfying thocky sound and a light actuation force, the HMX Jelly switch might be the better choice for you. Its excellent factory lube ensures a silky typing experience, providing you with a smooth key press that can be delightful for gamers or anyone who frequently types quickly. The lower actuation force can help reduce fatigue during long typing sessions, making it a good fit for fast-paced tasks. In the end, whether you lean towards the subtle, polished experience of the Gold Brown Pro or the smooth, thocky nature of the Jelly, consider how each switch aligns with your typing style and environment to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard journey.
Mentioned in this article
