TTC Gold Pink vs. HMX Lotus (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Gold Pink and HMX Lotus (Heavy) stand out as two popular linear options, each offering distinct advantages tailored to different preferences. The Gold Pink is celebrated for its exceptionally light 37g actuation force, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize speed and efficiency in their typing or gaming sessions. Its clacky sound adds a satisfying auditory feedback that can enhance the overall experience. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) features a medium-heavy actuation force of 62.5g, providing a more substantial feel with every keystroke. Known for its bright, resonant sound and bouncy feedback, the Lotus appeals to users who enjoy a more tactile connection with their keyboard. While the Gold Pink caters to users seeking a faster, more effortless typing experience, the Lotus offers a robust sensation that can enhance typing satisfaction. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
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
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
The TTC Gold Pink and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) represent two distinct approaches to housing materials in keyboard switches, particularly in their top housings. The Gold Pink utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This characteristic results from polycarbonate's stiffness, allowing it to create more pronounced resonances. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) is constructed with a nylon top housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature. This material absorbs more sound, which results in a rounder acoustic quality. As a result, while the Gold Pink produces brighter and more articulate sounds, the Lotus lends itself to a warmer, more rounded auditory experience.
When it comes to the bottom housings, both the Gold Pink and the Lotus (Heavy) use nylon material, making an interesting point of similarity in their construction. The nylon in both switches yields a deeper sound profile, enhancing the overall auditory experience by dampening sound and providing a stable base for sound absorption. This unified material choice means that despite the differences in top housing, both switches share a consistent level of warmth and depth in sound when pressed. Consequently, players can expect similar results in terms of sound quality when considering the bottom housing experience across these two models, emphasizing a fuller auditory enjoyment.
The interaction between the top and bottom housings in both the Gold Pink and the Lotus (Heavy) adds another layer of complexity to their sound profiles. While the nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to the fuller sound when keys are pressed, the differing top materials dictate how the sound evolves during both the key press and release. The polycarbonate top of the Gold Pink fosters clarity and brightness on release, while the nylon top of the Lotus (Heavy) enhances the warmth and depth of the sound. Ultimately, the combination of these materials results in different aesthetic and auditory experiences, catering to users’ preferences for either a sharper or a fuller keyboard sound.
Weight
The TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch present a distinct contrast in their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences among users. The Gold Pink switch features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience. This lighter force can allow for longer typing sessions with less fatigue, ideal for extended use at work or during gaming. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switch has a firmer actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams. This heavier resistance provides a more substantial and tactile feedback upon key presses, which some users might find more satisfying while typing. Consequently, the Gold Pink is the lighter option, whereas the Lotus (Heavy) caters to those who enjoy a heavier feel in their switches. Ultimately, users will find that while both switches serve distinct purposes, the differences in their actuation and bottom out forces directly influence the typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, the Gold Pink measures a travel distance of 4 mm, whereas the Lotus (Heavy) has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This indicates that the Gold Pink provides a longer travel distance, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial tactile experience when typing, offering a greater sense of depth. On the other hand, the Lotus (Heavy), with its shorter 3.5 mm travel distance, may cater to gamers or users seeking quicker response times and less abrupt key presses. If you're looking for a balance between feel and response, you might find comfort in either switch depending on your personal preference, as the Gold Pink's traditional longer travel caters to those who enjoy a hearty depth, while the Lotus (Heavy)'s shorter distance is ideal for those who value speed and responsiveness.
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 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 Pink linear switch is known for its clacky auditory feedback, making it quite lively and engaging during keystrokes. This characteristic can contribute to a more interactive typing experience, especially appealing to users who enjoy an audible response. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switch has a bright and resonant sound profile, which adds a distinct auditory presence for every keypress. While both switches have a noticeable sound aspect, the tonal quality differs, with the Gold Pink delivering a clackier note compared to the Lotus’s resonant brightness. It’s important to note that the overall sound may vary based on the keyboard build, keycap choice, and other factors.
In terms of feel, the TTC Gold Pink switch offers a combination of buttery smoothness, mild resistance, feathery lightness, subtle feedback, and a polished typing experience. This makes it exceptionally comfortable for extended typing sessions and allows for quick and effortless keystrokes, matching the needs of fast typists and gamers alike. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switch, while not elaborated on in terms of specific descriptors, is indicated to provide a super bouncy feeling, which suggests a more tactile and possibly firmer keypress compared to the light and smooth experience of the Gold Pink. The heavier actuation force of the Lotus switch could also mean increased resistance, providing a different tactile feedback during typing.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Pink and HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches present distinct yet notable pros and cons. The Gold Pink stands out with its light actuation force and lively clack, ideal for users who prioritize speed and feedback, while the Lotus emphasizes a heavier actuation with a bounce that caters to those who prefer a more substantial keystroke experience. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will hinge on whether you prefer a feather-light and responsive feel or a sturdy and resonant touch under your fingertips.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and how you plan to use your keyboard. If you prioritize a fast and effortless typing experience, particularly for gaming or rapid input, the Gold Pink is an excellent choice. Its light 45g bottom-out force and low actuation force of 37g allow for quick key presses, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions without causing finger fatigue. The buttery and feathery feel adds comfort, while the clacky sound provides engaging auditory feedback, ensuring you enjoy your time spent at the keyboard. On the other hand, if you prefer a more pronounced physicality in your keystrokes, and enjoy a bouncier, slightly heavier switch for a confident typing experience, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) is a fantastic option. With its medium-heavy actuation force of 62.5g, it offers satisfying resistance that can help prevent accidental keystrokes, along with a bright and resonant sound that enhances the tactile experience. In essence, if you identify as a lighter and faster typist or gamer, lean towards the TTC Gold Pink; however, if you appreciate structure and a more substantial feel in your typing, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) should be your go-to.
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