TTC Gold Red vs. HMX Twilight
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the HMX Twilight switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the TTC Gold Red and the HMX Twilight, both of which are linear switches known for their smooth keystrokes but with distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Gold Red is celebrated for its buttery smooth typing experience and light-medium resistance, complemented by a snappy sound profile that adds a subtle yet polished personality to your keyboard. This makes it ideal for users who appreciate a tactile feedback without overwhelming noise. In contrast, the HMX Twilight boasts an extended travel distance of 3.85mm, creating a slightly quieter typing environment while still retaining the signature clacky qualities typical of HMX switches. Consequently, it appeals to those who prefer a longer keystroke and a more muted sound without sacrificing the satisfaction of a responsive switch. Each switch presents its own advantages depending on user preference, whether one seeks a refined typing experience or a quieter option. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.85 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Red and the HMX Twilight switches utilize different materials for their top housings, leading to distinct auditory experiences for users. The Gold Red features a polycarbonate top housing that is recognized for its rigidity and transparency. This polymer enables the switch to produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when pressed. Polycarbonate's firmness contributes to a clearer resonance that enhances the overall sound quality, making it particularly favorable for users who enjoy RGB lighting effects since the translucency allows for better diffusion of light. In contrast, the HMX Twilight utilizes a nylon top housing, which is well-known for its ability to create a deeper, fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a more muted resonance that emphasizes a rounder auditory experience.
Regarding the bottom housings, both the Gold Red and the Twilight switches employ nylon material, which means that despite the differences in their top housings, they share a similar foundation in terms of sound profile. The nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to the overall typing experience by producing a deeper and fuller sound due to its sound-absorbing properties. This creates more consistency in the bottom-out sound and feel across both switches. Given that the bottom housing is crucial in determining the impact of the key press and sound when a key bottoms out, users can expect a degree of auditory similarity in this aspect despite the contrasting materials used on the top housing.
In summary, while the TTC Gold Red and HMX Twilight switches use different materials for their top housings—with polycarbonate promoting a sharper sound and nylon yielding a fuller sound—both switches share a nylon bottom housing that aligns their acoustic characteristics to a degree. The use of polycarbonate in the Gold Red enhances clarity, making it suitable for vibrant RGB lighting effects, while the nylon in the Twilight focuses on delivering a richer and more subdued experience. Therefore, when pressing the switches, users will experience a blend of high-pitched clarity from the Gold Red and a deeper resonance from the Twilight, thanks to their respective housings' properties.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, both offer a relatively light typing experience ideal for prolonged use. The Gold Red requires an actuation force of 43 grams and has a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Twilight has a slightly lower actuation force of 42 grams, but shares the same bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that both switches provide a similar overall feel when it comes to typing, particularly in terms of bottoming out, as they both reach this threshold at the same force. The slight difference in actuation force indicates that the HMX Twilight may feel a touch lighter to some users, making it a preferable choice for those who prioritize minimal force for extended typing sessions. Ultimately, while the actuation forces are close, the Gold Red is marginally heavier. However, both switches lean towards a lighter configuration, suiting both typists and gamers who prefer less resistance in their keystrokes.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Twilight linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.85 mm. This means that when pressing down on the Gold Red, users will experience a deeper and arguably more substantial keystroke compared to the more responsive feel of the Twilight. Traditionally, the 4 mm travel distance is associated with a more tactile experience, making the Gold Red a suitable choice for those who prefer a robust feel during typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight’s 3.85 mm distance caters to those who favor quicker actuation, which can enhance performance in fast-paced gaming scenarios. Therefore, if you prioritize rapid response times, the HMX Twilight may be more appealing, while the TTC Gold Red is ideal for users seeking a more pronounced keystroke. Overall, the Gold Red's travel distance is longer than that of the Twilight, making it better suited for those who enjoy a bit more depth in their keystrokes.
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 Twilight has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Twilight 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 it comes to sound, the TTC Gold Red linear switch stands out with its thocky, low-pitched, and neutral sound profile. This combination creates a deep, rich audio experience that can be both satisfying and unobtrusive, making it versatile for various settings, whether at home or in the office. Its snappy sound adds a layer of personality without overwhelming the auditory environment. In contrast, the HMX Twilight linear switch is designed to be slightly quieter, largely due to its extended travel distance of 3.85mm. While it maintains the signature clacky characteristics often associated with HMX switches, there is less emphasis on a distinct sound profile compared to the Gold Red, making it potentially subtler in shared spaces.
In terms of feel, the TTC Gold Red linear switch excels with its mild resistance and silky smooth typing experience. The switch is polished, ensuring a refined interaction with the keys that minimizes friction and promotes fluid key travel. This results in a typing experience that is approachable for users of all skill levels. Unfortunately, there isn't enough detailed information about the feel of the HMX Twilight switch to make a direct comparison. However, given its design, it can be expected to provide a different tactile experience compared to the buttery smoothness offered by the Gold Red.
In summary, while both the TTC Gold Red and HMX Twilight linear switches cater to different preferences, they each offer unique qualities. The Gold Red provides a richer sound profile and an exceptionally smooth feel, making it ideal for users who appreciate a more tactile typing experience with a satisfying auditory feedback. The Twilight, with its extended travel distance and quieter approach, appeals to those desiring a subtler sound. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your specific typing preferences and whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a balance of both.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, your choice should align with your specific typing preferences and acoustic environment. If you value a buttery smooth typing experience paired with a subtle yet pleasing sound profile, the Gold Red is an excellent choice. Its light-medium resistance and thocky sound make it suitable for both casual typing and longer work sessions, especially in shared spaces where a balanced sound profile can make a difference. On the other hand, if you prioritize key travel distance and a quieter typing experience while still enjoying the tactile satisfaction of a linear switch, the HMX Twilight might be the better option for you. Its extended 3.85mm travel appeals to those who appreciate a deeper, more engaging keystroke without overly intrusive noise. By aligning your selection with these characteristics, you can ensure that your keyboard experience is not only comfortable but also enjoyable.
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