TTC Gold Pink vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Pink and HMX SU offer distinct yet appealing characteristics for enthusiasts and gamers alike. The Gold Pink is renowned for its incredibly light 37g actuation force, which allows for rapid and effortless keystrokes—ideal for those who prioritize speed in typing or gaming. Its buttery and mild feel is complemented by a satisfying clacky sound, delivering a lively and engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX SU features a more robust design with a full PA12 housing and a T5 stem, contributing to a subtle yet deeper acoustic profile that appeals to users who value a quieter typing environment without sacrificing performance. While the Gold Pink excels in lightness and feedback for fast-paced activity, the HMX SU offers a sturdier and more nuanced experience. 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
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
The TTC Gold Pink and the HMX SU switches showcase distinct characteristics in their materials, particularly in the composition of their top housings. The Gold Pink employs a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for delivering a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is primarily due to polycarbonate's stiffer nature, allowing for greater clarity and resonance in sound. Furthermore, the translucence of polycarbonate enhances its compatibility with RGB lighting, making it visually appealing. In stark contrast, the HMX SU features a nylon top housing that produces a deeper, fuller sound profile because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs sound rather than reflecting it. This results in a duller, rounder acoustics, giving each keystroke a different aural feel. Thus, while the Gold Pink prioritizes brightness and clarity, the SU focuses on a rounded warmth in sound, showcasing the diverse tonal capabilities that different housing materials can yield.
When we turn our attention to the bottom housings of these switches, an interesting parallel emerges: both the Gold Pink and the HMX SU utilize nylon for their bottom housings. Since nylon is a classic switch housing material, both switches benefit from a deep and rich sound profile attributed to nylon's sound-absorbing qualities. This material choice contributes to creating a more consistent feel across these two models when typing. The impact of the bottom housing is particularly significant during the bottom-out action of the switch, as it plays a crucial role in shaping the overall tactile feedback and sound experience. Therefore, regardless of the differences in their top housing materials, both switches produce a similar auditory experience at the bottom-out point, underscoring nylon's effectiveness in enhancing sound absorption.
Considering the overall characteristics of both switches, the distinct sound profiles generated by the different top housings contrast with the unified acoustic experience provided by the nylon bottom housings. The tonal differences become prominent during various phases of key presses—the Gold Pink’s crispness during release contrasts with the SU’s deep resonance. The combination of a polycarbonate top and nylon bottom in the Gold Pink enables a unique auditory experience that blends clarity with a warm foundation, while the HMX SU presents a more consistent tonal quality throughout due to the use of nylon for both housings. In essence, despite their differing top materials, both switches achieve satisfying sound results that cater to different preferences, showcasing how varying housing materials contribute to the overall performance and experience of mechanical switches.
Weight
The TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch present distinct characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Gold Pink boasts a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it an excellent choice for prolonged typing or gaming sessions where less resistance is preferred. In contrast, the HMX SU features a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, catering to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. While both options are classified as light, the Gold Pink is definitively the lighter of the two, allowing for more effortless keystrokes, ideal for users prioritizing comfort during extended use. In comparison, the HMX SU may better suit individuals seeking a firmer push feel. Therefore, when choosing between these switches, one should consider personal preferences regarding keystroke resistance and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, the Gold Pink measures 4 mm, making it the longer option, whereas the HMX SU has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, categorizing it as the shorter switch. The traditional travel distance is 4.0 mm, which means that the Gold Pink adheres closely to this convention, offering a more substantial tactile experience that some users might find preferable for typing or deep keystrokes. On the other hand, the HMX SU, with its shorter travel distance, caters to those who favor quicker responses and faster actuation, which can be particularly advantageous in gaming contexts. Ultimately, your choice will depend on personal preference: opt for the Gold Pink if you appreciate a more pronounced keystroke and the HMX SU for rapid, efficient typing or gaming.
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 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 comparing the sound profiles of the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, the Gold Pink is noted for its clacky sound, adding an audible layer of feedback that many typists and gamers appreciate. This sound can enhance the overall typing experience, providing a lively atmosphere that some users cherish. In contrast, the HMX SU is characterized by a subtle, relatively deep sound profile, which leans towards a more subdued auditory experience. Users who prefer a quieter typing environment may find the SU more appealing, while those who enjoy a pronounced auditory feedback may favor the Gold Pink. It's essential to recognize that the sound experience can vary significantly based on the keyboard's construction, keycap choice, and other customizations, which means users may achieve similar noise levels with either switch depending on their setup.
In terms of feel, the TTC Gold Pink switches offer an array of sensations, described as buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished. These descriptors indicate that the Gold Pink provides a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, requiring minimal effort to press due to their light 37g actuation force. As a result, users can type comfortably for extended periods without experiencing finger fatigue. Meanwhile, the feel for the HMX SU linear switch remains unknown, lacking specific descriptors to quantify how it might measure up against the Gold Pink. The combination of light actuation and the various refined sensations provided by the Gold Pink might give it an edge for those who prioritize both comfort and responsiveness.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch stands out with its light actuation, lively clacky sound, and highly enjoyable tactile experience, making it a go-to option for those seeking rapidity and comfort in their typing or gaming activities. In contrast, the HMX SU linear switch presents a deeper, more subtle sound but lacks detailed information on its tactile characteristics. Those who prefer a quieter experience might gravitate towards the SU, though the Gold Pink supports a more expressive feedback and feel, potentially offering similar results in sound based on setup choices. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on users' preferences for sound, feel, and typing atmosphere.
Conclusion
To summarize, choosing between the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch ultimately comes down to your specific typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using them. If you value an ultralight, quick typing experience and often find yourself engaged in rapid typing or gaming sessions, the Gold Pink is an excellent choice. Its 37g actuation force and buttery feel cater to those who want a feather-light touch, allowing for minimal finger fatigue during extended use. Furthermore, if you're in a shared space where sound might be an issue, the Gold Pink's relatively mild sound profile makes it a solid option. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier actuation force and enjoy a deeper, more full-bodied sound, the HMX SU might be more to your liking. With a 50g bottom out force and a subtle yet polished typing feel, it offers a refined experience that balances feedback without being overly noisy, making it suitable for any environment. In conclusion, your choice hinges on whether you prioritize speed and lightness or a more balanced feel with acoustic depth—evaluate your needs, and you'll be sure to select the switch that best enhances your typing experience.
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