TTC Gold Silver vs. HMX Jelly
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Silver and the HMX Jelly switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Gold Silver and the HMX Jelly stand out as two compelling linear options, each offering distinct advantages to different types of users. The TTC Gold Silver is celebrated for its rapid responsiveness and precise feel; its shortened travel distance and solid bottom-out provide a satisfying tactile closure with every keystroke. This switch harmoniously melds a smooth keystroke experience with a resonant sound signature, making it a prime choice for gamers or typists who thrive on speed and accuracy. In contrast, the HMX Jelly enchants users with its deep, thocky sound profile and lightweight actuation force of 42g, thanks to its exceptional factory lubrication. This combination allows for a softer, more cushioned typing experience that many find enjoyable for prolonged use, appealing to those who favor comfort over intensity. Each switch has its unique characteristics that cater to different preferences—whether it's the speed and precision of the Gold Silver or the smooth, comforting feel of the Jelly. 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
45g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
Stem material
T2
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
18mm spring
Spring
22mm extended single-stage spring
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Silver and the HMX Jelly switches exhibit differing characteristics based on their top housing materials, which greatly influence their sound profiles during typing. The Gold Silver utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which is known for its rigidity and clarity. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound that resonates well, particularly in RGB setups thanks to its translucency. In contrast, the HMX Jelly uses nylon for its top housing; being a softer material, nylon absorbs sound more effectively, producing a deeper, fuller sound profile. While both switches aim to provide a satisfying auditory experience, the Gold Silver leans towards a crisper and brighter sound, while the Jelly offers a more rounded and subdued acoustic footprint.
In terms of bottom housing, both the TTC Gold Silver and HMX Jelly switch feature nylon, a classic material that contributes to their deeper sound profiles. This consistency allows for a shared experience in terms of final bottom-out sound quality. Both switch designs rely on nylon’s ability to absorb sound, ensuring that bottom-out interactions convey a pleasant, full-bodied audio response. Since the bottom housing significantly affects this interaction during key presses, users will note that both switches retain a dulled, rounder sound feel thanks to this shared nylon component.
Overall, the key differences between the TTC Gold Silver and HMX Jelly switches lie in their top housing materials, which dictate their distinct sound profiles. However, the commonality in using nylon for the bottom housing introduces a balancing effect, providing a consistent and rich typing experience for both switches. Thus, while users can expect varying auditory experiences from the Gold Silver’s sharper tones to the Jelly's muted warmth, the underlying qualities provided by nylon in the bottom housing unify these interactions, leading to a satisfactorily distinct yet relatable typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Silver linear switch to the HMX Jelly linear switch, we find that the actuation forces are relatively close, with the Gold Silver requiring 45 grams to trigger a keystroke and the Jelly needing a slightly lighter 42 grams. This suggests that typists who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Jelly switch, which could facilitate longer typing sessions with less fatigue. However, the Jelly switch's bottom out force is specified at 48 grams, indicating that it provides a more substantial feel when fully pressed down, which could appeal to users who prefer a more tactile and heavy typing experience. In contrast, the TTC Gold Silver lacks a specified bottom out force, making it difficult to directly compare their overall typing experiences in that regard. Overall, the lighter actuation force of the HMX Jelly may make it a preferable choice for those seeking ease in pressing keys, while the TTC Gold Silver's unspecified bottom out force leaves its heavier tactile experience uncertain.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the HMX Jelly linear switch, there is a notable difference: the Gold Silver has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Jelly measures 3.8 mm. This makes the Gold Silver the shorter option, appealing to users who prefer quicker responsiveness, particularly beneficial for gamers seeking faster key actuation. Conversely, the Jelly's longer travel distance may be more suitable for those who enjoy a more substantial feel when pressing keys, providing a sense of depth that some users find preferable. Thus, while both switches can achieve good performance in their respective contexts, those who prioritize speed may lean toward the Gold Silver, whereas those favoring a more traditional feel might opt for the Jelly.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Silver 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 Silver for $2.90.
The HMX Jelly has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jelly 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 Silver switch produces a resonant signature that is notably low-pitched and thocky, creating a satisfying and rich auditory experience with each key press. This makes it a versatile choice, as its neutral tone coupled with a well-defined bottom-out can suit many typing environments. In contrast, while the HMX Jelly switch is also geared towards satisfying acoustics, specific descriptions of its sound characteristics are currently unknown. However, if its response is as anticipated, it may offer a different auditory experience, potentially leaning towards a more muted or softer sound profile, depending on its construction and materials.
In terms of feel, the TTC Gold Silver switch is reputed for its exceptionally smooth and polished typing experience, enhanced by factory lubrication. The key travel is silky and refined, creating a flow that many users find pleasing. The mild and subtle resistance of the Gold Silver makes it approachable for a wide range of typists, ensuring comfort during long typing sessions. On the other hand, details about the tactile feel of the HMX Jelly switch remain unclear. If it provides a similarly smooth experience, users might find a comfortable and enjoyable typing environment, but the exact characteristics, such as resistance and potential feedback during key presses, are yet to be determined.
Overall, both switches cater to specific preferences in sound and feel, with the TTC Gold Silver providing a confirmed balance of rich acoustics and a refined tactile experience. While the Jelly switch holds potential for a different auditory and tactile profile, definitive qualities of its sound and feel are still unknown. Ultimately, the Gold Silver stands out for its polished performance and clear acoustic signature, while the Jelly is an intriguing option for those seeking an alternative experience in the mechanical keyboard realm.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the TTC Gold Silver and the HMX Jelly linear switches, your choice should ultimately reflect your typing style and environment. If you prioritize rapid responsiveness and a smooth keystroke experience, the TTC Gold Silver is an excellent choice. Its lightweight feel, coupled with minimal travel resistance and a satisfying bottom-out, makes it ideal for fast-paced tasks like gaming or coding, where precision and speed are essential. Moreover, its polished and silky characteristics ensure a refined typing experience that many users appreciate, along with a neutral yet engaging sound profile that won’t disrupt others around you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a deeper, thockier sound and a tactile experience, the HMX Jelly switch might be the way to go. With a light actuation force and a more profound auditory feedback, the Jelly provides a unique typing experience that can enhance your gaming or typing sessions while exuding a rich, low-pitched sound that feels gratifying. Ultimately, aligning your choice with your preferences for tactile feedback, sound signature, and the intended use of your keyboard will help you select the right switch for your needs.
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