TTC Gold Brown vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, personal preference plays a crucial role, and two popular options are the TTC Gold Brown and the HMX SU. The Gold Brown switch is well-regarded for its balance, offering users a tactile experience with a gentle bump that provides feedback without being overly pronounced. This switch's moderate weightiness and rounded sound profile create a typing experience that feels both pleasant and less intrusive, making it ideal for a variety of tasks, from gaming to typing. On the other hand, the HMX SU switch leans toward a linear design, featuring a full PA12 housing and a T5 stem, which results in a smoother keystroke with a subtle yet deep sound profile. This makes the SU a great choice for those who prefer silent operation without the tactile feedback, typically appealing to gamers who require quick, uninterrupted keystrokes. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
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
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T5
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-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown and the HMX SU, the primary distinction lies in the material used for the top housing. The Gold Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, which is noted for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to polycarbonate's stiffer nature, which allows for a clearer and more resonant sound. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal choice for RGB lighting setups, as it enhances the visual impact of the lighting. In contrast, the HMX SU opts for a nylon top housing, a classic material that results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to nylon's softer, more sound-absorbing properties. This leads to a duller and rounder auditory experience, illustrating a fundamental difference between the two switches in terms of the sound characteristics produced by their respective top housings.
The bottom housing of both switches, however, utilizes nylon, leading to a shared experience when it comes to sound. As described for both the Gold Brown and SU, the nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition, which absorbs sound rather than amplifying it. Consequently, this similarity means that the bottoming-out sound and feel when pressing the keys will be comparably round and satisfying across both switches. The nylon material encourages a consistent and pleasant typing experience, allowing users to enjoy the benefits of this sound-absorbing material regardless of the differences in the top housing.
In summary, while the Gold Brown and HMX SU differ significantly in their top housing materials, they share a commonality in their bottom housing, both utilizing nylon. This dual approach results in distinct sound profiles dictated by the top housing: the sharper sound of the Gold Brown versus the rounder sound of the SU. Yet, when it comes to the depth and fullness produced during key presses, both switches will provide a similar auditory experience due to their shared nylon bottom. Therefore, while users may find varying sound characteristics in the actions of each switch, the shared nylon material ensures a consistently satisfying typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch to the HMX SU linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Gold Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, indicating a medium resistance that offers a more substantial typing experience, catering to users who prefer a heavier feel. In contrast, the HMX SU features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more suitable for long typing sessions or extended gaming, as the lower force requires less effort and can reduce fatigue. Therefore, the Gold Brown is the heavier switch overall, while the HMX SU is lighter, providing distinct preferences for users based on their typing style and comfort needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the HMX SU linear switch, a notable difference arises: the Gold Brown offers a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX SU measures at 3.6 mm. This means that the Gold Brown has a longer travel distance, providing users with a more pronounced feedback upon keypress, which some may prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. In contrast, the shorter 3.6 mm travel distance of the HMX SU switch aligns more with contemporary preferences, especially among gamers who value quicker response times and a more immediate actuation. Ultimately, if you gravitate towards a deeper keypress, the TTC Gold Brown would likely be more satisfactory, whereas if a swift and responsive feel is what you seek, the HMX SU would be the better option.
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 SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU for $3.29.
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 switch offers a balanced and rounded auditory experience. Its moderate sound profile is softer than many other switches, resulting in a pleasant noise level that is more subdued while still providing enough auditory feedback for typing. This makes it a versatile option that suits both casual and professional environments. In contrast, the HMX SU linear switch presents a richer, deeper sound profile thanks to its full PA12 housing and T5 stem combination, which adds a distinct low-end quality to each keystroke. While both switches produce a sound that is neither obtrusive nor excessively loud, the Gold Brown's neutrality and the SU's slightly deeper tone cater to different preferences.
Regarding the feel, the TTC Gold Brown switch is characterized by a mild tactile response that provides a gentle yet satisfying typing experience. It strikes a safe balance, offering a notable bump without overwhelming the typist, making it approachable for users at any skill level. Additionally, the Gold Brown's buttery smoothness and polished finish enhance the overall typing experience, allowing for fluid key travel with reduced friction. The HMX SU linear switch, while lacking specific descriptors in the provided information, is expected to deliver a seamless keystroke experience synonymous with linear switches. This typically results in an unbroken and uninterrupted feel when typing, distinct from the tactile feedback of the Gold Brown.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Brown and the HMX SU switches cater to different auditory and tactile preferences. The Gold Brown features a nuanced, balanced sound with a mild tactile feel, suitable for a wide range of users, while the SU presents a deeper, more pronounced sound profile with a linear feel. Ultimately, whether you lean toward the tactile bump of the Gold Brown or the smoothness of the SU, both switches will deliver satisfying and enjoyable typing experiences, albeit in slightly different ways.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the HMX SU linear switch primarily depends on your typing preferences and environment. If you value a balanced typing experience with tactile feedback, the Gold Brown is an excellent choice. Its medium bottom-out force of 63 grams provides a satisfying, mild bump that enhances your typing without being overly pronounced, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced users. The softer, rounded sound profile allows it to blend in well in a work or home setting, ensuring that you can type comfortably without disturbing those around you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and lighter touch, the HMX SU linear switch is designed to accommodate that desire with its lighter 50 grams bottom-out force. This switch offers a buttery and seamless keystroke experience, ideal for those who prioritize speed and fluidity in their typing. In essence, if you appreciate tactile feedback and a more nuanced sound, go for the Gold Brown; if a smooth, light touch is what you're after, the HMX SU will serve you better. Ultimately, it comes down to what kind of typing experience you seek and how that aligns with your daily activities.
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