TTC Gold Brown Pro vs. HMX Lotus (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) offer distinct yet appealing options depending on your typing style and preferences. The TTC Gold Brown Pro is renowned for its subtle tactile feedback, providing a gentle bump that allows typists to engage fully with their work while maintaining a quiet environment. This low-profile tactile switch is perfect for those who appreciate a muted typing experience, letting you stay focused without the distraction of overly pronounced actuation. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) presents a markedly different experience with its medium-heavy actuation force and vibrant sound. The resonant feedback of the Lotus switch introduces a playful bounciness to each keystroke, appealing to gamers and typists who enjoy a more dynamic and energetic typing sensation. Each switch caters to different needs, whether you prioritize a discreet, polished feel or a lively and responsive touch. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62.5g
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
The TTC Gold Brown Pro and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) showcase distinct approaches to housing materials that affect their acoustic profiles significantly. The Gold Brown Pro employs a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. This stiffer plastic allows the sound to resonate more clearly, making it ideal for those who appreciate an articulate and high-pitched auditory experience. Furthermore, the translucent nature of polycarbonate enhances its compatibility with RGB lighting, creating a visually pleasing effect. In contrast, the Lotus (Heavy) opts for a nylon top housing, which is traditionally recognized for its capacity to absorb sound. The result is a deeper and fuller sound profile that creates a more muted auditory experience. Thus, one can see that while both switches utilize quality materials, the Gold Brown Pro leans towards a more defined sound, whereas the Lotus (Heavy) envelops typists in a softer auditory embrace.
The bottom housings of both switches exhibit a similarity in material choice, as both the Gold Brown Pro and the Lotus (Heavy) feature nylon. This shared use of nylon results in a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches due to the material's sound-absorbing properties. The warm, rounder auditory experience achieved by nylon in both switches contributes to the tactile satisfaction that many typists seek. This means that despite their top housings being different—polycarbonate in the Gold Brown Pro and nylon in the Lotus (Heavy)—the overall auditory experience when typing is complemented by the similarities in their bottom housings, which gestures towards a consistent, satisfying feel across both switches.
In summary, while the TTC Gold Brown Pro and HMX Lotus (Heavy) offer differing top housing materials, the nylon used in the bottom housing of both switches ensures that certain auditory characteristics remain consistent. The Gold Brown Pro's polycarbonate top delivers a crisper and sharper sound when releasing the keys, while the nylon bottom enhances the fullness and depth during key presses. In contrast, the Lotus (Heavy) allows the user's engagement to be characterized by a more uniform sound that borders on the warmer, deeper tone throughout. Ultimately, this juxtaposition highlights how the interplay of different housing materials in these switches can lead to a range of preferences that cater to various typing experiences while still achieving a shared auditory core.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch to the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Gold Brown Pro features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, which may appeal to users seeking a softer touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a firmer keystroke for a richer tactile experience. Regarding bottom out force, the Gold Brown Pro has an unknown bottom out force, while the Lotus measures a medium bottom out force of 62.5 grams. This indicates that while the Gold Brown Pro might be easier to activate, the Lotus provides a more substantial feel at the bottom. Ultimately, for users prioritizing lighter switches for comfort, the Gold Brown Pro is the better choice, whereas those who favor a heftier response would find the HMX Lotus (Heavy) more to their liking.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Gold Brown Pro has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Lotus (Heavy) features a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Gold Brown Pro allows for a fuller keypress experience, making it potentially more appealing for users who prefer a more substantial depth and tactile feedback when typing. In contrast, the shorter travel distance of the Lotus (Heavy) may benefit gamers or users looking for quicker responses, as shorter travel distances often lead to faster actuation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may depend on personal preference for depth versus speed in key response.
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 (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus (Heavy) 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 offers a refined auditory experience characterized by a thocky and low-pitched profile. This switch produces a deep, soft thud, providing a satisfying and rich tone reminiscent of a gentle knock, making each keystroke feel subtly impactful without being overly loud. This neutral sound output is conducive to a focused work environment, allowing users to type with confidence and minimal distraction. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) has a bright and resonant sound, although specific descriptors for its acoustic qualities are not provided. Generally, one can expect a more pronounced auditory signature with the Lotus switches, likely enhancing the feedback of each keystroke.
In terms of feel, the TTC Gold Brown Pro excels with its polished, silky, and mild characteristics. This switch provides a smooth typing experience that reduces friction, resulting in a gentle and subtle key press. The tactile bump is present but understated, contributing to a refined experience without overwhelming the user—ideal for those who enjoy a delicate touch when typing. Details about the feel of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) are not specified, but its medium-heavy actuation weight of 62.5g suggests a firmer resistance, which could impart a more robust typing sensation, making it feel bouncy under the fingers.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Brown Pro and HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Gold Brown Pro offers a softer, more subdued auditory and tactile experience, perfect for users valuing subtlety and focus. Conversely, the Lotus (Heavy) provides a brighter sound and likely a firmer feel, promising a more vibrant typing interaction. The choice between the two will ultimately depend on whether one prefers an understated yet polished typing experience or a more pronounced, bouncy feel with an engaging sound. Both switches have unique qualities that cater to different typing styles, making them suitable for various environments and user preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, your choice between the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) largely depends on your personal preferences and the typing experience you desire. If you value a typing experience that is subtle and refined, with a gentle tactile bump that provides just enough feedback without being distracting, the Gold Brown Pro is an excellent fit. This switch is ideal for those who work in quieter environments or enjoy immersive typing sessions, as its low-pitched and thocky sound profile ensures that every keystroke remains discreet. On the other hand, if you prefer a more pronounced tactile reaction with a satisfying bounce and a brighter sound, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) will likely suit you better. With its medium-heavy actuation force of 62.5 grams, this switch provides a lively and engaging typing experience that may energize your sessions, particularly during gaming or fast-paced typing. Ultimately, your selection hinges on whether you seek an understated yet elegant tactile sensation or a lively and responsive linear feel that emphasizes sound and feedback.
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