TTC Gold Brown vs. HMX Lotus
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the HMX Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the TTC Gold Brown, a tactile switch, and the HMX Lotus, a linear switch. The Gold Brown is revered for its balanced nature, featuring a slight bump and moderate weightiness that offers a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Lotus by HMX is known for its 50g bottom out weight and bright, resonant sound, providing a super bouncy feeling with each keystroke. While the Gold Brown offers a softer sound profile and a buttery feel, the Lotus guarantees a delightful typing sensation. 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown and the HMX Lotus, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's ability to absorb more sound. However, when it comes to the top housing, the Gold Brown uses polycarbonate while the Lotus uses nylon. Polycarbonate produces a sharper and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffness, whereas the Lotus's nylon top housing offers a softer and rounder sound due to its more flexible nature. Despite these differences, both switches prioritize sound quality with their choice of housing materials.
The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Gold Brown switch allows for a clearer and resonant sound profile, particularly beneficial for users who prefer a sharper sound experience. In contrast, the Lotus's nylon top housing caters to those looking for a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to nylon's sound-absorbing properties. While the top housing plays a significant role in the overall sound of a switch, the bottom housing's impact on the bottom-out sound and feel should not be overlooked. With both switches employing nylon for their bottom housing, users can expect a consistent dull and round sound when typing on either switch.
Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Gold Brown and the HMX Lotus comes down to personal preference regarding sound profile. The Gold Brown offers a sharper and crisper sound due to its polycarbonate top housing, while the Lotus provides a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon top housing. Both switches ensure a quality typing experience with their nylon bottom housing, which absorbs sound and contributes to a consistent sound profile across the board. Whether you prioritize clarity and resonance or depth and fullness in your typing experience, there is a switch to suit your preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch, it is evident that the Lotus is the lighter option with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. On the other hand, the Gold Brown is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Lotus switch, as it requires less force to activate and bottom out, allowing for a smoother typing experience over extended periods of time. Conversely, individuals who enjoy a more robust and tactile typing feel may lean towards the Gold Brown switch, as it provides a more substantial push with higher actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Lotus has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Gold Brown. The traditional travel distance is around 4 mm, so the Gold Brown falls into that category. Gamers may prefer the Lotus for its slightly quicker response time due to the shorter travel distance. However, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Gold Brown with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and keypress feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown for $3.28.
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
In terms of sound, the Gold Brown tactile switch offers a balanced and neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes and environments. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus linear switch provides a bright and resonant sound that adds a delightful bounciness to every keystroke. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the Gold Brown switch is characterized by its mild and buttery typing experience, offering a gentle yet satisfying keystroke. With an accented and polished feel, these switches provide a smooth and refined typing sensation that falls in a safe, middle-ground zone. Meanwhile, details about the feel of the HMX Lotus linear switch are unknown, but it can be assumed that its medium weight and bouncy feel contribute to a unique typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gold Brown tactile switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch both offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences. While the Gold Brown switch provides a balanced and mild typing experience with a moderate sound profile, the HMX Lotus switch offers a bright and resonant feel with a bouncy keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on whether the user prefers a subtle and balanced typing experience or a more vibrant and bouncy feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch, consider your preferences for actuation force and typing experience. If you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a balanced feel and a softer sound profile, the Gold Brown may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a bouncy feel and a bright, resonant sound, the Lotus switch could be more suited to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and the overall typing experience you are looking for.
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