TTC Gold Silver vs. HMX Lotus
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Silver and the HMX Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Silver linear switch to the HMX Lotus linear switch, both offer unique advantages that cater to different preferences. The TTC Gold Silver is renowned for its rapid responsiveness, providing a decisive bottom-out with each keystroke and a smooth journey from press to bottoming out. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus switch boasts a medium weight of 50g bottom out and a bright, resonant sound, offering a super bouncy feeling that adds delight to every keystroke. While the Gold Silver focuses on speed, sound, and fluidity, the Lotus prioritizes a balanced weight and enjoyable 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
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
18mm spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Silver and the HMX Lotus both feature nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relative softness of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. However, the Gold Silver's top housing is made of polycarbonate, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness and resonant properties. On the other hand, the Lotus's nylon top housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound, providing a contrast in sound characteristics between the two switches.
In terms of aesthetics, the Gold Silver's polycarbonate top housing is translucent and ideal for RGB lighting, giving it a unique visual appeal. Meanwhile, the Lotus's nylon top housing may not offer the same level of transparency for RGB effects. However, both switches use nylon for their bottom housings, emphasizing a consistent choice for creating a deeper and fuller sound. Despite the differences in material for top housings, the shared use of nylon for the bottom housings ensures a similar result in terms of sound profile for both switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the TTC Gold Silver and the HMX Lotus plays a significant role in shaping the sound profile of these switches. While the Gold Silver's polycarbonate top housing yields a sharper and crisper sound, the Lotus's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound. The similarities in using nylon for the bottom housings maintain a consistent sound characteristic between the two switches. Ultimately, the differences in housing materials contribute to distinct sound profiles and aesthetics for each switch, catering to varying preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch, we see that they both have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Gold Silver has an unknown bottom out force, while the Lotus has a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it the heavier of the two switches. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gold Silver would be the better option as it lacks a specified bottom out force. On the other hand, the Lotus would be ideal for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force. Both switches offer a similar actuation force, so users can expect a similar typing feel in that regard. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would come down to personal preference in terms of weight and typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two switches, it can be said that they will provide a similar typing experience in terms of how far the keys travel when pressed. This means that whether you choose the Gold Silver or the Lotus, you can expect a consistent and familiar feel when typing. Both switches offer a moderate travel distance that falls within the standard range for linear switches, resulting in a smooth and efficient typing experience. Therefore, users can rest assured that they will achieve similar results in terms of key travel distance with either of these switches.
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 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
In terms of sound, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch is best described as having a 'thocky' and low-pitched sound profile, creating a deep and rich auditory experience. This switch also falls under the category of a neutral sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, information on the sound characteristics of the HMX Lotus linear switch is unknown, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Silver switch is known for its polished and silky typing experience, offering a smooth and refined keypress with reduced friction. The switch is also described as mild and subtle, providing a gentle typing experience that is suitable for most users. Conversely, there is no available information on the feel of the HMX Lotus linear switch, making it challenging to draw a direct comparison between the two switches in this regard.
Overall, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch excels in providing a rapid and responsive typing experience with a harmonized sound signature. The switch offers a smooth and fluid keystroke with a satisfying bottom-out, making it a popular choice for users who prioritize speed and precision in their typing. While information on the sound and feel of the HMX Lotus linear switch is lacking, if the switch replicates similar qualities to the TTC Gold Silver, users can expect a bouncy feel with a bright and resonant sound that enhances the typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing characteristics.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize rapid responsiveness, a smooth keystroke, and a resonant sound, the TTC Gold Silver may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light bottom-out force, a bouncy typing experience, and a bright sound, the HMX Lotus could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preference in terms of typing feel, sound profile, and bottom-out force. So, take into account these differences between the Gold Silver and Lotus switches to make an informed decision based on your typing preferences.
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