TTC Gold Red Pro vs. HMX Hibiscus
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the HMX Hibiscus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, personal preference plays a crucial role in determining the ideal choice for your typing style and needs. The TTC Gold Red Pro and HMX Hibiscus are two compelling linear switch options that cater to different user experiences. The Gold Red Pro is celebrated for its versatility and seamless ease of press, providing a neutral sound that makes it equally at home in gaming marathons, office environments, or casual typing sessions. Its subtle yet polished feel creates a comfortable experience for a wide range of users. On the other hand, the HMX Hibiscus switches stand out with their ultra-light actuation force, combined with a distinctly clacky and poppy sound that adds a layer of auditory joy to typing. While the Hibiscus offers a unique tactile feedback and an enticing signature noise, its lighter touch may appeal primarily to those who enjoy a more spirited typing experience. Both switches have their strengths, making them valuable contenders in any keyboard enthusiast's arsenal; 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
43g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
Stem material
T3
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
18.5mm spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Red Pro and the HMX Hibiscus, we find notable differences in their top housings, which significantly influence their sound profiles. The Gold Red Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffer nature, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced when typing. Additionally, its translucent quality makes it an excellent choice for RGB lighting, allowing for vibrant illumination effects that can enhance the aesthetic appeal of the keyboard. In contrast, the HMX Hibiscus uses a nylon top housing that provides a deeper, fuller sound profile. This is attributed to nylon’s softer properties, which absorb more sound and offer a duller, rounder auditory experience. Consequently, users can expect distinct sound characteristics when typing on these two switches.
Both the Gold Red Pro and the HMX Hibiscus utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which brings a level of consistency in sound quality between the two switches. The nylon material once again delivers a deeper and more resonant sound, as its softness allows it to absorb impact and dampen noise more effectively than harder plastics. This shared bottom housing material means that when pressed down, both switches will evoke a similar tactile feel and bottom-out sound, giving users a satisfying typing experience characteristic of nylon. This continuity in the bottom housing is crucial for those who appreciate a rich auditory feedback while typing, regardless of the differences presented by the top housings.
The overall sound experience of both switches will ultimately be a blend of their top and bottom housing materials. While the Gold Red Pro's polycarbonate top creates a distinctly brighter sound when releasing keys, its nylon bottom balances this with a deeper thump during key presses. Conversely, the HMX Hibiscus's nylon top results in a softer release sound, paired with the same rich bottom-out effect as the Gold Red Pro. Therefore, while the tonal qualities differ due to the distinct top housing materials, the consistent nylon bottom housing allows both switches to deliver satisfying sound profiles in their own right, appealing to diverse user preferences in tactile feel and auditory feedback. Users can achieve excellent results from both switches while enjoying the unique characteristics that each housing material offers.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch, it's evident that they have different characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Gold Red Pro features an actuation force of 43 grams, which makes it slightly heavier than the Hibiscus, which has an actuation force of 42 grams. This minor difference means that the Hibiscus may be preferable for those who enjoy a lighter typing experience, making it suitable for extended periods of use, such as long gaming sessions or work hours. However, with the bottom out force of the Gold Red Pro being undefined, we cannot make a direct comparison on that front. In contrast, the Hibiscus has a bottom out force of 48 grams, which signifies a heavier resistance when fully pressing down on the key. This could provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a firmer feedback when bottoming out. Overall, while the actuation forces are similar, the defined heavier bottom out force of the Hibiscus may cater to those looking for a more robust feel in their keystrokes, whereas the Gold Red Pro's unknown bottom out force leaves ambiguity in its overall tactile response.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Gold Red Pro features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Hibiscus offers a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Hibiscus a better option for those seeking a more responsive feel, as its shorter travel can result in faster actuation times, which is particularly advantageous for gamers. On the other hand, the Gold Red Pro's 3.8 mm travel distance may appeal to users who prefer a more pronounced depth when pressing the keys, providing a less abrupt experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for response time versus key depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
The HMX Hibiscus has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hibiscus 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 Red Pro linear switch possesses a neutral audio signature, delivering a low-pitched and thocky tone. This creates a more bass-heavy and mellow auditory experience, ideal for various environments, whether in an office or at home. Its soft thud adds a satisfying quality without overwhelming surroundings, making it suitable for both quiet and active spaces. In contrast, while the HMX Hibiscus switch is noted for its ultra-light actuation, the specific sound characteristics remain unknown. However, based on its description, it may provide a different auditory experience compared to the Gold Red Pro, potentially leaning towards a more clacky or poppy sound profile depending on the board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gold Red Pro stands out for its polished and silky qualities, ensuring a smooth typing experience that minimizes friction. This switch is crafted to offer a mild yet refined tactile sensation, striking a balance that will appeal to a wide range of users. The comforting subtle resistance allows for comfortable long typing sessions without fatigue. The Hibiscus, on the other hand, is heralded for its unmatched smoothness and an incredibly light actuation force, significantly lighter than many other switches. This ultra-light feel may cater well to users who prefer effortless key presses, but specific tactile feedback qualities are not provided.
In conclusion, while the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch offers a balanced sound and an exceptionally polished feel, the HMX Hibiscus switch brings a unique promise of ultra-light actuation and a smooth experience, though its sound characteristics remain unconfirmed. Overall, if you're seeking versatility that adapts well to different environments and provides comfort during extended use, the Gold Red Pro is a solid choice. However, the Hibiscus might appeal to those who prioritize an even lighter touch in their typing experience. Deciding between them could boil down to your specific preferences regarding sound and feel, and both could yield satisfying results depending on your setup and usage scenarios.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch, your choice should primarily reflect your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you seek versatility and a smooth, gentle typing experience that caters to various environments—be it for gaming, office tasks, or casual typing—the TTC Gold Red Pro is an excellent choice. Its low sound profile and polished feel allow for a discreet and comfortable experience, ideal for shared spaces or quieter settings. Conversely, if you desire a switch that stands out with a satisfying sound signature and exceptional smoothness while typing, the HMX Hibiscus may be your go-to option. The Hibiscus switch's light actuation and clacky tone create an engaging and pleasurable typing experience, perfect for those who thrive on auditory feedback and enjoy a more vibrant feel beneath their fingers. Ultimately, consider what aspect—be it sound, feel, or intended use—matters most to you in your mechanical keyboard journey, and choose accordingly.
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