TTC Gold Red vs. HMX Lotus
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the HMX Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the TTC Gold Red and the HMX Lotus, both linear switches. The Gold Red is praised for its buttery smooth typing experience and light-medium level of resistance, offering a snappy sound profile that adds personality without being too loud. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus boasts a medium weight of 50g bottom out and a bright, resonant sound that provides a super bouncy feeling with every keystroke. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that may appeal to different individuals based on their preferences. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Standard
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
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Red and the HMX Lotus, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This means that when typing on either switch, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. In terms of feel, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, providing a tactile experience to users when typing.
However, when it comes to the top housing material, the Gold Red features a polycarbonate top housing while the Lotus uses nylon for its top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Red creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Lotus elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, offering a more rounded and duller sound compared to the polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Red.
Overall, while both switches share similar nylon bottom housings that provide a deeper and fuller sound profile, the differences lie in their top housings. The Gold Red's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharp and clear sound profile, while the Lotus's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound. These distinct housing materials cater to different preferences in sound and feel, showcasing the importance of housing materials in determining the overall typing experience of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The actuation force of the TTC Gold Red linear switch is slightly lighter at 43 grams compared to the HMX Lotus linear switch at 45 grams. Both switches have the same bottom out force of 50 grams, making them equally light in that regard. The difference in actuation force may not be too noticeable in practical use, as both switches offer a relatively light touch for quick typing and gaming. Those who prefer a lighter touch may gravitate towards the Gold Red, while those who prefer a slightly firmer feel may prefer the Lotus. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and the desired weight of the key presses.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In terms of travel distance, the HMX Lotus is the shorter option compared to the Gold Red. With a difference of only 0.5 mm, the Gold Red offers slightly more depth when compared to the Lotus. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Gold Red leaning towards a more standard feel and the Lotus offering a slightly shallower experience. Depending on personal preference, players may gravitate towards the Gold Red for a more pronounced keypress, while the Lotus may appeal to those seeking a quicker response time. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to individual preference for travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red for $3.28.
The HMX Lotus has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus 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 Gold Red linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched typing experience, providing a deep and satisfying sound with a moderate level of actuation force. This neutral sound profile is suitable for various environments, whether you are a beginner or an advanced user. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Lotus switch is unknown, so it's hard to directly compare the two in this aspect. However, keep in mind that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Gold Red switch provides a mild and silky typing experience that is smooth and gentle on the fingers. The subtle resistance and polished finish of these switches contribute to a refined and sleek typing feel, making them suitable for shared spaces. In contrast, the feel of the Lotus switch is not specified, so a direct comparison in terms of feel cannot be made. However, if the Gold Red switch provides a smooth and refined typing experience, it is likely that the Lotus switch will offer a similar level of comfort and quality.
In conclusion, the Gold Red linear switch from TTC offers a buttery smooth typing experience with a thocky, low-pitched sound profile and a mild, silky feel. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus linear switch provides a super bouncy feeling with a bright and resonant sound, although details about its feel are unknown. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches are likely to deliver a satisfying typing experience with their unique characteristics. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific qualities that you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch, you should consider the typing experience you prefer. If you are looking for a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a modest sound profile, the Gold Red switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a super bouncy feeling with a medium weight and bright, resonant sound, the HMX Lotus switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile.
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