TTC Gold Silver vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Silver and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Silver and the HMX Swift mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Gold Silver is renowned for its rapid responsiveness, providing a decisive and solid bottom-out with each keystroke, accompanied by a resonant sound signature and smooth keypress action. On the other hand, the HMX Swift stands out for its deep sound profile and silky smoothness, complemented by a delicate 42g actuation force. While the Gold Silver leans more towards speed, sound, and fluidity, the Swift offers a lighter touch and a creamy feel. 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
50g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
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
18mm spring
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Silver and the HMX Swift provide distinct characteristics to the switches they are used in. While the Gold Silver features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, the Swift utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound. The polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Silver is noted for its translucency, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, while the nylon top housing of the Swift is praised for its sound-absorbing properties.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, both the Gold Silver and the Swift utilize nylon, known for its softer properties that absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. The choice of nylon for the bottom housing of both switches highlights the importance of creating a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel. The utilization of nylon in both the top and bottom housing ensures a cohesive sound profile throughout the typing process, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, while the TTC Gold Silver and the HMX Swift feature different top housing materials - polycarbonate and nylon, respectively - their choice of nylon for the bottom housing creates a similar effect in terms of sound profile. The stiffer polycarbonate of the Gold Silver may provide a sharper sound, while the softer nylon of the Swift may result in a deeper sound; however, both switches aim to deliver a unique typing experience with their housing materials. Whether using polycarbonate or nylon, the ultimate goal is to provide a satisfying and consistent sound profile for the user.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, we can see some differences. The Gold Silver has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Swift's 42 grams, making the Gold Silver a slightly heavier option. However, the bottom out force of the Swift at 50 grams is heavier than the Gold Silver, which has an unknown bottom out force. In terms of weight, the Swift is slightly heavier overall. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Gold Silver for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may prefer the heavier bottom out force of the Swift for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, both switches offer different weight options to cater to various preferences.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm. In this case, the Gold Silver has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Swift. The 0.4 mm may not seem like a significant difference, but it can affect the feel of the switch when typing or gaming. Those who prefer a faster response time may lean towards the Gold Silver, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may prefer the Swift. Ultimately, the decision between the two comes down to personal preference and typing style. Both switches offer a different typing experience, so trying them out firsthand is the best way to determine which one suits your needs the best.
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 Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift 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 characterized by a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and rich auditory experience that is suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch offers a clacky sound that is sharp and percussive, adding a bright tone to typing sessions. Depending on personal preference and the accompanying keyboard and keycaps, users can achieve different auditory experiences with each switch.
Moving on to feel, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch is recognized for its polished, silky, mild, and subtle typing feel, offering a smooth and refined keystroke experience that is gentle yet satisfying. In contrast, the HMX Swift linear switch provides an easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy typing sensation, which reduces finger fatigue and enhances overall comfort during extended typing sessions. Both switches prioritize smoothness and ease of use, catering to users who value a responsive and enjoyable typing experience.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Silver and HMX Swift linear switches present distinctive sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences and needs. While the Gold Silver is known for its thocky, low-pitched sound and polished, silky feel, the Swift stands out with its clacky sound and easy-to-press, feathery feel. Ultimately, both switches offer a high level of performance and satisfaction, allowing users to achieve similar results in terms of typing experience depending on their personal preferences and requirements. Whether one prioritizes a deep and rich sound profile or a sharp and snappy auditory feedback, or a smooth and refined typing feel versus a light and effortless key press, both the TTC Gold Silver and HMX Swift linear switches provide top-notch performance in the realm of mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, consider the specific qualities that best suit your typing preferences. If you value rapid responsiveness, a solid bottom-out, and a resonant sound signature, the TTC Gold Silver may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper sound profile, silky smoothness, and a lighter actuation force, the HMX Swift could be the perfect fit for your typing style. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize speed, sound, and fluidity (TTC Gold Silver) or a silky smooth typing experience with a lighter touch (HMX Swift). Choose the switch that aligns best with your personal preferences and enjoy a customized typing experience tailored to your needs.
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