TTC Gold Brown Pro vs. HMX Lotus
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the HMX Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often boils down to personal preference in tactile feedback. On one hand, the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch is designed for those who appreciate a subtle typing experience. Its gentle tactile bump allows for nuanced feedback, enabling typists to engage deeply in their tasks without the distraction of an overwhelming click or noise. This switch excels in environments that require focus, delivering a polished and low-pitched sound profile that is both silky and mild. In contrast, the HMX Lotus linear switch offers an entirely different experience with its medium weight of 50g and a bright, resonant sound, making each keystroke feel bouncy and delightful. While the Lotus provides a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke that can enhance speed and fluidity, it lacks the tactile feedback that some users crave. Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the HMX Lotus comes down to the type of typing experience you desire—subtlety versus responsiveness. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
Stem material
POM
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 single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the HMX Lotus, the primary distinction lies in their top housing materials—polycarbonate for the Gold Brown Pro and nylon for the Lotus. The polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Brown Pro is designed to produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributable to its stiffer nature, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced when keys are engaged. Moreover, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal choice for RGB lighting setups, allowing for a vibrant visual experience alongside tactile feedback. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the HMX Lotus contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its softer texture absorbs more sound, resulting in a warmer, rounder auditory experience. Thus, while both switches offer distinct sound characteristics, they cater to different preferences in auditory feedback.
Interestingly, both the Gold Brown Pro and the HMX Lotus utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which creates a cohesive base in terms of sound absorption. Since nylon is known for its capability to provide a deeper and fuller sound profile, this aspect is a commonality between the two switches. When pressing down a key on either switch, the nylon bottom housing provides a consistent and dampened sound characteristic that enhances the tactile experience. This means that regardless of the differing top housing materials, users can expect a similar bottom-out sound and feel due to the absorption qualities inherent in the nylon material of both switches. This shared feature allows for a comparable experience when bottoming out, emphasizing a strong foundation in sound and feel across both models.
In summary, while the TTC Gold Brown Pro and HMX Lotus exhibit significant differences in their top housing materials—polycarbonate and nylon respectively—their shared use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures a uniformly rich and fuller sound profile with every key press. This combination of materials reveals how the qualities of each can influence the overall typing experience. Consequently, users may find that the pronounced differences in the top housing affect the sound release and auditory feedback when releasing the keys, while the consistent use of nylon at the base levels the playing field, allowing for a satisfying and comparable typing experience in terms of bottom-out feedback. Whether one prefers the sharper notes of polycarbonate or the deeper tones of nylon, both switches deliver quality performance in unique ways.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch, both have a similar actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally accessible for typing and gaming tasks. This means users can expect a similar keystroke registration with both switches, ideal for extended typing sessions. However, the HMX Lotus switch has a defined bottom out force of 50 grams, while the bottom out force for the Gold Brown Pro is unspecified, indicating that the Lotus may provide a heavier feel when fully pressed down. Thus, for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, the HMX Lotus is the heavier option between the two. Ultimately, the choice between them may come down to personal preference regarding the typing experience, with the TTC Gold Brown Pro being potentially lighter since its bottom out force is unknown.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the HMX Lotus linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Gold Brown Pro offers a more pronounced key press, which may appeal to users who enjoy a deeper feel and a more tactile feedback when typing or gaming. In contrast, the HMX Lotus, with its shorter travel distance, could provide quicker actuation, making it an attractive choice for gamers seeking faster response times. Therefore, if you prefer a switch that feels more substantial and offers a hearty depth, the Gold Brown Pro would be the better option. Conversely, if responsiveness is your main priority, the shorter 3.5 mm travel of the Lotus might suit you better.
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 Lotus has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus 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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch presents a thocky, low-pitched profile that is both deep and rich, producing a satisfying auditory experience without being overly loud. Its neutral sound character makes it a versatile choice, suitable for varied environments — whether at home or in an office setting. In contrast, the HMX Lotus linear switch is characterized by a bright, resonant sound that adds an energetic quality to each keystroke. While the Gold Brown Pro impresses with its understated tones, the Lotus creates a more vibrant acoustic presence, enhancing the typing experience for those who enjoy that lively feedback.
In terms of feel, the Gold Brown Pro excels with its polished, silky typing experience, providing a smooth and refined touch that minimizes friction and resistance. The gentle, mild, and subtle tactile feedback gives typists a comfortable range of motion without overwhelming sensations. Additionally, its stepped characteristics allow for a nuanced experience, as users can discern stages during key presses. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus linear switch offers a bouncy feel, delivering a more dynamic and responsive typing action. While the exact tactile feedback of the Lotus is less defined than the tactile qualities of the Gold Brown Pro, its medium weight is designed to keep the user engaged and delighted with each keystroke.
In summary, selecting between the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the HMX Lotus comes down to personal preference regarding sound and tactile feedback. The Gold Brown Pro is ideal for those seeking a quieter, refined experience that encourages focus, while the Lotus caters to individuals who prefer a bright and energetic response. Both switches offer unique qualities, and by considering your typing style and environment, you can choose the one that best aligns with your needs.
Conclusion
To wrap up, the decision between the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch largely depends on your typing style and preferences. If you value a typing experience that is subtle and allows for deep focus—great for tasks that require prolonged periods of concentration or typists who dislike being distracted by loud keystrokes—the Gold Brown Pro is the ideal choice. Its gentle tactile bump and low sound profile are particularly suited for quiet environments, making it excellent for office settings or shared workspaces. On the other hand, if you prefer a more responsive and lively typing feel, the HMX Lotus with its 50g bottom out force and bright sound is perfect for quick and energetic typing, whether you’re gaming or typing at a fast pace. It delivers a bouncy sensation that can make each key press feel rewarding, appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your personal typing habits and the environment in which you plan to use your keyboard.
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