TTC Gold Silver vs. HMX Sunset Gleam

Overview

When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Gold Silver and the HMX Sunset Gleam stand out as two compelling linear options, each with unique attributes catering to different user preferences. The TTC Gold Silver is celebrated for its rapid responsiveness and a smooth keystroke journey that culminates in a solid bottom-out, providing a palpable closure with every press. Its polished and thocky sound signature enhances the overall typing experience, making it an excellent choice for users seeking speed and auditory satisfaction. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam, also known as the Duck Duck switch, introduces a thoughtfully crafted blend of materials that results in a subtle top-out and a satisfying clack. Renowned for its factory lubrication, this switch offers a refined and pleasurable typing experience characterized by its neutral sound profile. Both switches have their merits—whether you prioritize the swift action of the Gold Silver or the clacking satisfaction of the Sunset Gleam—however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

TTC Gold Silver Linear

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$6.11

$2.90 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials used in the TTC Gold Silver and HMX Sunset Gleam are strikingly similar, as both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The choice of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches contributes to a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile due to the material’s rigidity. This characteristic allows sound waves to travel with clarity and resonance, making it particularly effective when combined with RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the visual lighting effects. Therefore, users can expect an aesthetic appeal alongside an elevated auditory experience when using either switch, thanks to the shared properties of their polycarbonate tops.

On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing utilized in both models introduces a contrast in the auditory experience associated with each switch's bottom-out sound and feel. Nylon is known for its softer characteristics, which contribute to a deeper, fuller sound profile when typing. This absorption of sound creates a more subtle, rounded auditory feedback upon key presses, setting it apart from the crispness provided by the polycarbonate top. Both switches rely on nylon as their bottom housing material to achieve this depth, thereby offering a balanced blend of clarity and warmth in their overall sound profiles.

While the materials themselves are the same in both models, their combined effects on the switches' performance cannot be overlooked. The correlation between the polycarbonate top and nylon bottom means that users will experience a split in sound quality: the top will resonate with clarity while the bottom will provide warmth. Consequently, the distinct sound profiles of the TTC Gold Silver and HMX Sunset Gleam will still lead to similar results in terms of sound clarity and depth, delivering a well-rounded typing experience. In essence, the interplay of these materials ensures that both switches are capable of satisfying users who prioritize sound quality and aesthetic appeal in their keyboard experience.

Weight

When comparing the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, we see notable differences in their actuation forces and bottom out specifications. The Gold Silver switch features an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Sunset Gleam has a slightly lighter actuation force of 42 grams. This indicates that the Sunset Gleam may be more suitable for users who prefer a lighter tactile experience during prolonged typing or gaming sessions. In terms of bottoming out, the Sunset Gleam has a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Gold Silver's bottom out force is unspecified. The known forces suggest that the Sunset Gleam switch is generally lighter overall, making it a better choice for those seeking a less strenuous typing experience, whereas the Gold Silver may appeal to users looking for a firmer push due to its higher actuation force. Since the bottom out force of the Gold Silver is unknown, we cannot make a direct comparison, but the Sunset Gleam clearly stands out with its complete set of force specifications.

Travel distance

The TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch both feature a travel distance of 3.5 mm, meaning they operate identically in terms of the distance a user experiences when pressing a key. This equal travel distance ensures that users will have a similar tactile experience, providing a consistent feel across both switches. Since their travel distances are the same, one may expect comparable performance and actuation responses, making either switch a suitable choice for those who prioritize uniformity in keypress feedback.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch boasts a distinctive thocky and low-pitched quality, providing a deep, rich sound with each keystroke. This sound profile enhances the sensation of feedback, delivering a satisfying auditory response that resonates well during typing sessions. The neutral tone of the switch ensures it remains versatile, making it suitable for a variety of environments, from home to office settings. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam does not have a defined sound profile mentioned, leaving its auditory characteristics open to speculation. However, it’s worth noting that sound production in any mechanical keyboard switch can also depend heavily on the board and keycaps used, which suggests that both switches could similarly be tailored to fit a user's preference.

When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Silver is characterized by its polished and silky smoothness, allowing for a refined and fluid typing experience. This switch's mild and subtle action offers a gentle resistance, making it approachable for users at any skill level. The smooth travel of the Gold Silver ensures minimal friction, appealing to typists who prioritize a seamless keypress. The feel of the HMX Sunset Gleam remains unspecified, which leaves an important aspect of user experience open-ended. Given that the Gold Silver is so well-defined in its tactile qualities, it establishes a benchmark for those who desire a smooth and gentle typing sensation.

In conclusion, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch presents a well-defined auditory and tactile experience characterized by its thocky sound and exceptionally smooth feel. The HMX Sunset Gleam lacks specified qualities in both sound and typing feel, making direct comparisons difficult. Users seeking a specific auditory and tactile engagement may gravitate towards the Gold Silver for its clear advantages. However, due to variations introduced by board and keycap choices, it is possible that the Sunset Gleam could deliver a unique experience of its own, yet that potential remains to be explored. As a newcomer, opting for the Gold Silver guarantees a reliable mix of sound and smoothness, while the Sunset Gleam might offer an appealing alternative worth testing out.

Conclusion

To conclude, when choosing between the TTC Gold Silver and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switches, your decision ultimately hinges on your specific typing needs and preferences. If you prioritize rapid responsiveness and a smooth keystroke experience, the TTC Gold Silver is an excellent fit; its ultra-responsive design ensures a quick actuation, making it ideal for gamers or anyone requiring swift typing. The tactile feedback combined with its thocky and low-pitched sound profile offers a satisfying auditory experience, perfect for those who enjoy a deeper, richer typing sound in a more polished, silky feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that balances subtlety and satisfying acoustics, the HMX Sunset Gleam is your best bet. With its thoughtful manufacturing and factory lube, it provides a gentle typing experience that minimizes noise, making it suitable for shared spaces or office environments where you might not want to disturb others. The Sunset Gleam’s light bottom-out force also makes it a comfortable choice for extended typing sessions, especially if you find yourself leaning toward a lighter keystroke. Ultimately, your preference for speed versus subtlety will guide your choice between these two exceptional linear switches.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Gold Silver Linear

$6.11

$2.90 per 10

Learn more

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more