HMX Hibiscus vs. TTC Silent Bluish White (V2)
An in-depth look at the HMX Hibiscus and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch for your typing needs, the HMX Hibiscus and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) offer distinctly different experiences. The HMX Hibiscus switch is renowned for its ultra-light actuation force and an exceptionally smooth typing experience, making it ideal for those who prioritize speed and a crisp auditory feedback with its satisfyingly clacky sound. This linear switch is perfect for gamers or typists who thrive on fluidity and require minimal resistance for rapid keystrokes. In contrast, the Silent Bluish White (V2) presents a balanced tactile feel, offering a medium level of resistance that provides clear feedback with every press while maintaining a discreet, muted sound profile. This makes it an excellent choice for individuals working in shared environments, where noise reduction is key. Ultimately, each switch caters to different preferences—whether you seek effortless gliding or refined tactile engagement. 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
42g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Partial box
Stem material
T3
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Hibiscus and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) exhibit contrasting material choices for their top housings, which significantly influence their sound profiles. The Hibiscus utilizes a nylon top housing, known for its softer texture, which leads to a deeper and fuller sound experience. This choice of material absorbs sound, creating a duller and rounder profile that many typists appreciate for its warmth. In contrast, the Silent Bluish White (V2) features a polycarbonate top housing that offers a higher-pitched and crisper sound. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the auditory feedback, making it more suitable for those who favor a sharper typing experience. The aesthetic quality of polycarbonate, with its translucency, also suits RGB lighting applications, enhancing the overall visual appeal of the switch.
Interestingly, the bottom housings of both switches are made from nylon, leading to a similar sound characteristic shared across both models. The nylon bottom housing in both cases contributes to a fuller and deeper sound profile. This means that regardless of the differences in the top housing, the bottom housing's shared material results in consistent auditory qualities when typing. The relative softness of nylon absorbs some sound energy, leading to a more muted bottom-out sound, which typists may find preferable for a quieter workspace. Thus, while the top housings diverge in material and function, the bottom housings maintain a common auditory foundation that balances the overall acoustic experience of both switches.
The combined effect of the differing top housings and the similar bottom housings in these switches highlights how housing materials can influence the typing experience. The Hibiscus’s nylon top provides a warm, muted sound profile, while the Silent Bluish White (V2) offers a bright and resonant output. Given that the bottom housing for both switches is nylon, those favoring a specific auditory experience might find their typing feedback somewhat comparable due to the shared material in the lower section. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would largely depend on the individual's preference for sound and feel, with the Hibiscus catering to those who prefer deeper tones while the Silent Bluish White (V2) appeals to users who favor brighter, more resonant keys.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch, both have a similar actuation force of 42 grams, making them equally light in terms of the pressure required to trigger a keystroke. However, their bottom out forces slightly differ, with the Hibiscus at 48 grams and the Silent Bluish White (V2) at 50 grams. This means that while both switches feel light when typing, the Silent Bluish White (V2) provides a slightly heavier resistance when fully bottoming out. This contrasts the overall typing experience, as some users may prefer the stiffer feeling of the Silent Bluish White (V2) when it comes to feedback during intense typing or gaming sessions, while others may appreciate the lighter bottom out of the Hibiscus for extended use. Ultimately, both options cater to different preferences, with the Hibiscus being the lighter switch overall and the Silent Bluish White (V2) offering a bit more weight in its bottoming out sensation.
Travel distance
Both the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch feature an identical travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, users will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom, resulting in a similar typing feel. Since both switches have the same travel measurement, individuals can expect comparable performance in terms of actuation and key response, making them suitable alternatives depending on personal preference for switch type.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Hibiscus has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hibiscus for $2.99.
The TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Bluish White (V2) for $4.63.
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 HMX Hibiscus linear switch is characterized by its clacky, poppy, and crispy audio signature, providing an engaging auditory feedback that many typists find satisfying. The nature of its sound makes it more suitable for personal use or environments where sound is not a significant concern. In contrast, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) offers a muted sound profile that minimizes the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards. This makes the Silent Bluish Whites an excellent choice for office settings or shared living spaces where quiet operation is prioritized, allowing for a more serene typing experience without disturbing others.
Regarding the feel of these two switches, the HMX Hibiscus is known for its unparalleled smoothness, often translating to a seamless and effortless typing experience. This ultra-light actuation force contributes to a tactile sensation that can feel delightfully smooth but doesn't have notable tactile feedback. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) presents a medium tactile feedback, characterized by a buttery and polished typing feel. It provides a moderate level of resistance that many users find comfortable and approachable, combining gentle tactile elements with smooth key travel, which can appeal to a broad audience. The stepped tactile design of the Silent Bluish White enhances this experience, allowing typists to feel distinct stages during their keystrokes.
Ultimately, the HMX Hibiscus and TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switches cater to different preferences and environments. The Hibiscus offers a more pronounced auditory enjoyment with its clacky sound and a velvety smoothness in feel, making it suitable for personal use where sound is not an issue. In contrast, the Silent Bluish White focuses on a quiet, mild tactile experience, perfect for office settings where minimal sound is essential. Depending on your environment and typing preferences, both switches provide distinct yet satisfying typing experiences, allowing users to select the ideal switch to meet their needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing environment. If you prioritize an ultra-light feel and enjoy a satisfyingly smooth and clacky typing experience, the HMX Hibiscus is your go-to switch. Its lower actuation force of 48 grams makes it ideal for prolonged typing sessions and for users transitioning from membrane switches, allowing for a more effortless keystroke. However, if you work in a shared space or simply prefer a quieter setup without sacrificing tactile feedback, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) will serve you well. These switches offer a subtly tactile feel with a polished and buttery keystroke, providing a comfortable typing experience while ensuring minimal noise. Ultimately, assess your environment and typing style: go for the Hibiscus for versatility and playfulness, or the Silent Bluish White (V2) for a more subdued yet tactile performance.
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