TTC Gold Red Pro vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Red Pro and the HMX Swift both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Gold Red Pro is praised for its versatility, providing a seamless typing experience with a neutral sound signature that works well in any setting, whether it be for gaming, office work, or casual typing. On the other hand, the HMX Swift stands out for its deeper sound profile and silky smoothness, offering a different tactile experience with a lighter actuation force. While both switches have their own strengths, it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing 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
43g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
Stem material
Ly
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 extended spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Red Pro and the HMX Swift both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound profiles. The Gold Red Pro utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, providing a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. In comparison, the Swift features a nylon top housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to nylon's softer and sound-absorbing properties. While both materials offer distinct sound characteristics, the choice between the two will ultimately depend on personal preference for a sharper or rounder sound.
When it comes to the bottom housing of the switches, both the Gold Red Pro and the Swift opt for nylon material. This choice results in a deeper and fuller sound profile that is consistent across both switches. The nylon bottom housing's softer properties allow for sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that enhances the overall typing experience. Despite having different top housing materials, the similar choice of nylon for the bottom housing ensures a consistent sound profile that resonates with users who prefer a softer and more absorbing typing sound.
Overall, the housing materials of the TTC Gold Red Pro and the HMX Swift showcase the distinct characteristics of polycarbonate and nylon in creating unique sound profiles for mechanical switches. While the Gold Red Pro's polycarbonate top housing provides a clear and resonant sound, the Swift's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing, resulting in a consistent deep and absorbing sound profile. Whether you prefer a sharper and crisper sound or a duller and rounder sound, both switches cater to a variety of sound preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, both switches have a relatively light actuation force. The Gold Red Pro has a slightly higher actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Swift's 42 grams, making it slightly heavier. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Gold Red Pro's force is unavailable while the Swift has a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is heavier. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Swift may be the better option due to its lower bottom out force. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Gold Red Pro for its higher actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm. Both switches have relatively close travel distances, with the Swift being slightly longer than the Gold Red Pro. The 0.1 mm difference may not be noticeable to some users, but for those who are particularly sensitive to keypress depth, it could make a difference. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may lean towards the Gold Red Pro with its shorter travel distance, while users who prefer a more substantial keypress feel may opt for the Swift with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and individual typing or gaming style.
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 Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift 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
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch is renowned for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying typing experience. With a neutral sound signature, it is suitable for a wide range of settings and users. In contrast, the HMX Swift linear switch is known for its clacky sound, offering a sharp and percussive auditory feedback. When it comes to feel, the Gold Red Pro is polished, silky, mild, and subtle, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with gentle resistance. On the other hand, the Swift is easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy, offering light actuation force and spring-like feedback for a comfortable typing feel.
Overall, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch excels in providing a versatile and adaptable typing experience with a neutral and harmonious sound profile. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch stands out with its deep sound profile and smooth typing feel due to its nylon housings and delicate actuation force. While the Gold Red Pro offers a polished and subtle typing experience, the Swift provides a creamy and bouncy feel. Both switches have their unique characteristics, catering to different preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for sound, feel, and typing environment.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, consider the specific characteristics that appeal to you most. If you value a versatile switch that offers a seamless typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Gold Red Pro could be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a deeper sound profile and a silky smooth typing feel at a light actuation force, the HMX Swift switch might be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing needs. Whether you prioritize adaptability and ease of press or a unique sound profile and delicate actuation force, choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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