TTC Gold Red Pro vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When diving into the world of mechanical keyboard switches, two notable linear options stand out: the TTC Gold Red Pro and the HMX SU. The Gold Red Pro is celebrated for its versatility, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience that caters to a wide range of users, whether they're gamers, professionals, or casual typists. Its neutral sound signature strikes a balance—neither too loud nor overly quiet—making it ideal for any auditory environment. This switch is characterized by its polished, thocky, and silky feel, which adds to its appeal. On the other hand, the HMX SU features a robust construction with a full PA12 housing and a T5 stem, alongside a subtly deeper sound profile that some users may find more satisfying and resonant. While both switches offer an engaging typing experience, the choice between them may come down to individual preferences regarding sound and tactile feedback. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
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
18.5mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Red Pro and HMX SU switches present an intriguing study in contrasting sound profiles due to their differing top housings, while both possess similar bottom housings that culminate in a fuller sound experience. The Gold Red Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is largely due to the material's stiffer nature, which allows for enhanced resonance when keys are pressed. In contrast, the HMX SU utilizes a nylon top housing, a classic choice that tends to absorb sound resulting in a deeper, fuller sound profile that is less resonant. Thus, the top housing of each switch plays a crucial role in determining the acoustic character, making the Gold Red Pro more suited for users seeking clarity in sound, while the SU leans towards providing a warm, rounded typing experience.
However, when exploring the bottom housing of both switches, we find a significant similarity. Both the Gold Red Pro and the HMX SU feature a nylon bottom housing, which is known for its ability to absorb sound effectively. This results in a duller and rounder sound profile during bottom-out, reinforcing the deeper tones characteristic of both switches. In this instance, despite the differences in the top housings, the nylon bottom housing in both switches helps produce a unified sound experience, emphasizing the roundness and fullness of the typist's touch. This means users can anticipate a consistency in overall feel and sound upon bottoming out, lending a similar tactile experience across both models.
Ultimately, while the TTC Gold Red Pro and HMX SU switches exhibit distinct auditory profiles thanks to their top housing variations, the nylon bottom housing serves as a common thread that enhances the overall acoustic depth of each switch. For enthusiasts seeking a sharper sound, the Gold Red Pro's polycarbonate top allows for more bright and crisp notes, while those who prefer a warmer tone will gravitate towards the HMX SU's nylon top. Despite these differences, the shared nylon bottom ensures that both switches provide a satisfying and rounded bottom-out experience, allowing users to find common ground in their typing experience—or switch between them without feeling too distant from either’s unique sound signature.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch with the HMX SU linear switch, there are notable differences in actuation force and bottom out force. The TTC Gold Red Pro features an actuation force of 43 grams, while the HMX SU has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Gold Red Pro may be favored by users looking for a lighter touch, allowing for extended typing sessions without as much fatigue. In contrast, the HMX SU, with its heavier actuation force, may provide a more substantial feel for those who prefer a firmer press. However, the Gold Red Pro lacks a specified bottom out force, rendering it difficult to compare fully; the HMX SU has a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is considered light. Overall, while the Gold Red Pro offers a lighter actuation, the HMX SU’s heavier actuation and defined bottom out force cater to preferences for a more considerable typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, the Gold Red Pro measures 3.8 mm while the HMX SU measures 3.6 mm. This indicates that the Gold Red Pro has a longer travel distance, providing a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. Gamers might prefer the shorter 3.6 mm travel distance of the HMX SU for its quicker response time, while those who enjoy a more pronounced key feel may gravitate towards the Gold Red Pro. As shorter travel distances become more popular, it's important to consider personal preferences; if you lean towards the more responsive experience, the SU would be the better choice, whereas you might favor the Gold Red Pro for a deeper key press. Overall, the Gold Red Pro's longer travel distance caters to those who appreciate a hearty depth, while the HMX SU satisfies the need for speed with its shorter travel.
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 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
In terms of sound, the TTC Gold Red Pro switch features a thocky and low-pitched profile that produces a deep, rich sound when pressed, giving a satisfying auditory feedback that many typists and gamers appreciate. This neutral sound signature ensures that it does not draw too much attention, making it versatile for various environments, whether for work or play. The SU switch, however, is noted to have a subtle, relatively deep sound profile, allowing for a bass-heavy experience. While both switches may contribute to a pleasing auditory experience, the Gold Red Pro's thocky sound could provide a more satisfying acoustical feedback when typing or gaming.
When looking at the feel of these switches, the Gold Red Pro stands out with descriptors like polished, silky, mild, and subtle. These characteristics suggest an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience, characterized by reduced friction and gentle resistance. This makes the switch approachable and comfortable for users across all skill levels, promoting a reliable typing experience. Unfortunately, the specific feel qualities of the SU switch are not detailed, leaving potential users without a clear comparison in this regard. Therefore, while the Gold Red Pro promises a notably smooth tactile experience, we can't assess how the SU would measure up.
In conclusion, both the TTC Gold Red Pro and HMX SU switches offer unique auditory experiences that cater to different preferences. The Gold Red Pro provides a calm thocky sound that adapts well to any setting, while the SU presents a subtle deep sound profile. In terms of feel, the Gold Red Pro excels with its highly polished and silky smoothness, ensuring a comfortable typing experience. The lack of information on the SU's sound and feel qualities leaves a gap in direct comparison, but users seeking a refined switch will find the Gold Red Pro an attractive option. Ultimately, both switches offer their own takes on linear switch performance, appealing to different types of users.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, your personal preferences and intended use cases will play a significant role. If you seek a versatile typing experience that’s silky smooth, polished, and mild, with a neutral sound signature suitable for various environments, the TTC Gold Red Pro is an excellent choice. It's particularly well-suited for casual typing, office work, and gaming due to its accessibility and adaptability, making it a great option for individuals who value comfort and minimal noise. On the other hand, if you're someone who appreciates a light bottom-out force of 50 grams combined with a subtle and relatively deep sound profile, the HMX SU may be the switch for you. This switch's unique characteristics might appeal to users looking for a distinctive auditory experience and a reassuring tactile feedback that stands out in a mechanical keyboard. Ultimately, your decision should harmonize with your typing style and the environments in which you will be using the keyboard.
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