TTC Gold Pink vs. HMX Gravel
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the HMX Gravel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, two noteworthy options are the TTC Gold Pink and the HMX Gravel, both of which are linear switches designed to enhance your typing experience. The Gold Pink distinguishes itself with an exceptionally light 37g actuation force, making it ideal for users who prioritize speed and ease in their typing, whether for gaming or fast-paced writing. Its buttery, feathery touch provides a lively, clacky sound that many typists find appealing. On the other hand, the HMX Gravel offers a medium-light actuation force that strikes a balance between responsiveness and smoothness, positioning it as a refined choice for those who appreciate a more polished feel without sacrificing performance. While the Gold Pink captures the essence of a vibrant typing experience, the Gravel appeals to enthusiasts seeking a smooth and effortless interaction with their keyboard. 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
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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
Both the TTC Gold Pink and the HMX Gravel utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, leading to a fundamentally similar acoustic profile. The inherent stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound experience when typing. This characteristic is especially pronounced with clear housings, as the translucency of the polycarbonate not only facilitates RGB lighting effects but also enhances the overall resonance and clarity of the sound. As a result, users of both switch types can expect a comparable auditory experience in terms of the sound produced upon releasing a key, demonstrating how the choice of top housing can significantly influence the switch’s performance.
In contrast to their top housings, both switches feature a nylon bottom housing, which brings a distinctly different sound quality into the equation. Nylon is known for its softer composition, which tends to absorb sound rather than reflect it. This absorption creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, contrasting sharply with the crispness imparted by the polycarbonate top. When typing on these switches, the impact of the nylon bottom is more pronounced in the key bottoming-out sound and feel, leading to a duller and rounder auditory experience. Thus, while the top housing might provide clarity and brightness, the bottom housing contributes depth and warmth to the overall sound profile, creating a balanced effect across both switches.
Ultimately, although the TTC Gold Pink and HMX Gravel have different characteristics in their bottom housing materials, the use of identical polycarbonate for the top housing ensures that users will experience significant similarities in their sound profile. The combination of a sharper sound from the polycarbonate top and a fuller sound from the nylon bottom creates a complex acoustic experience in both switches. As such, enthusiasts can achieve comparable results in terms of sound quality by considering both the contributions of the top and bottom housing to the overall typing experience.
Weight
The TTC Gold Pink and HMX Gravel linear switches both feature light actuation and bottom out forces, but they differ in their specific measurements. The Gold Pink has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it the lighter option of the two. In contrast, the Gravel switch requires a slightly stronger actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it the heavier choice. While both switches allow for a comfortable typing experience, the Gold Pink is better suited for those who favor a more effortless keystroke, ideal for long typing sessions or gaming marathons. Conversely, the Gravel switch offers a firmer feel, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Thus, users can expect a difference in tactile feedback and overall typing experience between the two switches.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the HMX Gravel linear switch, a clear distinction emerges. The Gold Pink features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gravel has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Gravel the more responsive option, appealing to gamers and those who favor quicker key presses for rapid input; on the other hand, the Gold Pink provides a heartier depth with its longer travel distance, which some users may find more satisfying and less abrupt. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preferences regarding responsiveness versus depth of feel in key presses.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
The HMX Gravel has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gravel 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 Pink linear switch produces a clacky sound that contributes to a lively typing experience. This auditory feedback can enhance the overall enjoyment for users who appreciate acoustic feedback when typing. In contrast, the HMX Gravel linear switch has a sound profile that remains largely unknown, but it’s worth noting that sound perception can be shaped by various factors, including the material of the keyboard and the type of keycaps used. Therefore, the Gold Pink provides a definitive auditory signature, while the Gravel's sound remains undetermined.
When examining the feel of these switches, the TTC Gold Pink is characterized by qualities such as buttery smoothness, mildness, and a feathery touch. These attributes create an effortless typing experience, minimizing finger fatigue and allowing for extensive typing sessions. The presence of subtle resistance also contributes to a gentle yet responsive feel. Meanwhile, the specifics of the Gravel's feel have not been disclosed, leaving its tactile experience open to interpretation. However, both switches are designed to provide a light and responsive typing experience, suggesting that users may find similarities in their overall performance.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch offers a distinct clacky sound and a versatile feel characterized by its smooth and light touch, making it ideal for users who prioritize rapid typing and gaming. The HMX Gravel linear switch, while lacking specific sound and feel descriptions, promises a responsive and refined experience that aligns closely with the qualities of the Gold Pink. Both switches cater to those seeking a light and effortless typing sensation, suggesting that users could achieve similar satisfaction even without extensive details on the Gravel switch.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the HMX Gravel linear switch, consider what kind of typing or gaming experience you desire. If you prioritize a fast and effortless typing experience, particularly for rapid typing or gaming where every keystroke counts, the Gold Pink is the way to go. With its light actuation force of 37 grams and a feathery feel, these switches allow for swift, responsive inputs that can enhance your overall performance. Additionally, if you enjoy a lively, clacky sound that adds character to your setup, the Gold Pink's auditory feedback will suit you well. On the other hand, if you are looking for a smooth, refined typing experience with a bit more weight behind your keystrokes, the HMX Gravel might be your ideal choice. With a slightly higher bottom out force of 50 grams, these switches provide a satisfying balance of responsiveness and a polished touch that can be particularly appealing during long typing sessions or for those who appreciate a more substantial feel without being overly heavy. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your preferences in typing feel, sound, and the types of activities you engage in most frequently, ensuring that you find a switch that enhances your keyboard experience.
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