TTC Gold Silver vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Silver and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Gold Silver and the HMX SU both shine as excellent options for enthusiasts seeking linear feedback, yet they each offer distinct characteristics catering to different preferences. The TTC Gold Silver is renowned for its rapid responsiveness, boasting a shortened travel distance that culminates in a decisive and solid bottom-out, which not only contributes to a sense of precision with each keystroke but also produces a harmonious low-pitched sound profile that many users find satisfying. On the other hand, the HMX SU, with its robust full PA12 housing and T5 stem, delivers a subtle yet deeper sound experience that can enhance the overall typing ambience, appealing to those who appreciate a more muted acoustic environment. Both switches provide a smooth typing experience, but the TTC Gold Silver excels in speed and sound resonance, while the HMX SU leans towards a more understated auditory profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
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
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
Stem material
T5
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-stage spring
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Silver and HMX SU switches utilize distinct materials for their top housings, which contributes to their unique sound profiles. The Gold Silver features a polycarbonate top housing, recognized for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is primarily due to polycarbonate's rigidity, which lends itself to a more resonant auditory experience. In contrast, the HMX SU employs a nylon top housing, a material that results in a deeper, fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, creating a rounder and less piercing auditory effect. The differences in these materials indicate that while both switches can deliver satisfying experiences, they cater to different auditory preferences—one leaning towards clarity and brightness, while the other prioritizes warmth and depth.
However, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which align the sound profiles and tactile feedback more closely in that regard. The deeper and fuller sound that nylon provides is shared across both models, ensuring that the bottom-out sound and feel of pressing the switch possess similarities despite the contrasting top housings. As a result, even with divergent materials on the top, the bottom housing's effect is consistent; users will experience a similar tactile sensation and sound profile when bottoming out the switch. This shared material contributes to a unified bottom-out experience, making it simpler for users to find familiarity across different switches, even when some elements vary.
In essence, while the TTC Gold Silver and HMX SU switches diverge in their top housing materials, both the switches share a nylon bottom housing that enhances the experience of the bottom-out sound and feel. This harmony in bottom materials means that users can expect to have a cohesive tactile feedback experience with both switches. Consequently, while the top housing infuses each switch with unique auditory characteristics influenced by its respective material, the foundational nylon bottom ensures a level of sonic and tactile continuity that is paramount for typing and gaming scenarios. Thus, one could achieve similar overall results when considering the bottom housing's influence in shaping the final auditory feedback and tactile response of both switches.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Silver linear switch to the HMX SU linear switch, we find that both switches share an actuation force of 45 grams, meaning users will experience a similar resistance when pressing down to trigger a keystroke. However, one significant difference lies in their bottom out forces. The HMX SU switch has a bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating that it requires slightly more force to fully depress the key, providing a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the TTC Gold Silver does not have an available bottom out force measurement, which leaves that aspect unknown. Given this context, the HMX SU is the heavier switch due to its additional bottom out force, making it possibly more suitable for users who prefer a firmer push feel. Meanwhile, the TTC Gold Silver is lighter in this regard, which could be more appealing for those who type for extended periods or engage in lengthy gaming sessions.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, we find that the Gold Silver has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the SU's travel distance is slightly longer at 3.6 mm. This makes the TTC Gold Silver the shorter option, providing a more responsive feel that may appeal to gamers who favor quicker key presses for speeding up their gameplay. On the other hand, the HMX SU, with its longer travel distance, offers an experience that may feel more substantial and less abrupt for those who prefer deeper key presses. Ultimately, the choice between the two will hinge on personal preference; if responsiveness is key, the Gold Silver is a suitable choice, whereas the SU may be better for those who appreciate a little more travel depth in their 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 SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU 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 Silver linear switch delivers a thocky, low-pitched auditory experience. Each keystroke produces a satisfying deep "thud" that enhances the tactile feedback of typing. This sound profile is not only rich and resonant, but it also maintains a neutrality that accommodates a wide range of typing environments, whether at home or in an office setting. In contrast, the HMX SU linear switch does not have a defined sound profile provided. However, the absence of specific descriptors suggests that its audio qualities remain undefined, leaving potential users to explore its sound characteristics within various setups.
In terms of feel, the Gold Silver switch shines with its polished and silky smoothness, offering a refined typing experience that minimizes friction. This smoothness allows for seamless key travel, ensuring that each press feels effortless. The mild and subtle resistance of the switch further adds to a gentle typing experience that is accessible, making it suitable for a wide audience. On the other hand, the HMX SU linear switch lacks detailed descriptions about its feel. This uncertainty leaves potential users without definitive insights into the switch's tactile experience, making it difficult to compare directly to the Gold Silver in this aspect.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch stands out for its impressive sound profile and smooth tactile feedback, positioning it as a versatile choice for users seeking both auditory satisfaction and a premium feel. The HMX SU linear switch, while potentially offering unique qualities, remains less defined in both sound and feel based on available information. Therefore, individuals seeking a rich auditory experience and refined typing may gravitate towards the Gold Silver, while those open to exploring could consider the SU, despite its unspecified characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the TTC Gold Silver and HMX SU linear switches ultimately depends on your specific preferences and typing needs. If you prioritize rapid responsiveness and a smooth, fluid keystroke experience, the TTC Gold Silver is your go-to choice. Its short travel distance ensures that each press feels decisive and satisfying, complemented by a rich, thocky sound that many typists find comforting. This switch is particularly well-suited for gamers or fast-paced typists who require a quick actuation and enjoy a tactile sensation with their keystrokes. On the other hand, if you favor a light bottom-out force with a subtle, deeper sound profile, the HMX SU switch might be more appealing. Its 50-gram actuation caters to those who prefer a lighter typing experience while ensuring a sturdy, reliable feel with each press. The full PA12 housing adds to its stability, making it potentially a better fit for long typing sessions where comfort is essential. Ultimately, your choice should align with how you intend to use your keyboard—whether for gaming, typing, or a combination of both—and how much you value sound and tactile feedback in your keystrokes.
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