HMX Hibiscus vs. TTC Silent Frozen (V2)
An in-depth look at the HMX Hibiscus and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can dramatically influence your typing experience, and two notable options to consider are the HMX Hibiscus and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2), both linear switches with distinct characteristics. The HMX Hibiscus switches are celebrated for their exceptional smoothness and lightweight actuation, making them a standout choice for those who prioritize ease of keystrokes—offering a delightfully clacky and poppy sound signature that can enhance the tactile enjoyment of typing. Conversely, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) caters to users seeking a quieter environment, boasting an impressively muted sound profile while still delivering a creamy and buttery feel that provides a unique combination of comfort and smoothness. While the Hibiscus leans into a more expressive auditory experience, the Silent Frozen (V2) is perfect for quieter settings without sacrificing performance. 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
39g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
43g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Silver white spring
Housing materials
The HMX Hibiscus and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) differ significantly in their housing materials, which in turn affects their overall sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Hibiscus features a nylon top housing that is renowned for its deep, full sound profile. This softer plastic absorbs sound more effectively, producing a duller and rounder tone when typing. On the contrary, the Silent Frozen (V2) is crafted with a polycarbonate top housing that ensures a sharper, higher-pitched sound. Polycarbonate's stiffer nature contributes to a more resonant and clear auditory experience, particularly desirable for users who appreciate the audibility of their keystrokes.
When examining the bottom housing, the differences between the two switches remain apparent. The Hibiscus utilizes nylon for its bottom housing as well, reinforcing the deep sound profile initiated in the top housing. This consistency in material further promotes a soft, muted feedback during keystrokes, ideal for those seeking a quieter typing experience. Conversely, the Silent Frozen (V2) employs polycarbonate for its bottom housing. This choice enhances the overall clarity and crispness of the switch, leading to a more tactile feel and distinct auditory feedback. Here, the bottom housing becomes integral in shaping the bottom-out sound, solidifying the more pronounced auditory characteristics for which this model is known.
Despite the differences in materials used for the top and bottom housings, one can still achieve somewhat comparable results between the two switches. While the Hibiscus excels in a plush, rounded sound, and the Silent Frozen (V2) focuses on a sharp resonance, both can satisfy individual user preferences depending on key characteristics—be it deep acoustic quality or pronounced clarity. When the Hibiscus employs both nylon components, it reinforces its cohesive auditory liquidness, whereas the dual polycarbonate construction of the Silent Frozen (V2) ensures a bright and impactful response. Consequently, users can select based on their desired typing feel and sound profile, knowing that each switch brings unique strengths to the typing experience, even amidst the contrasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch, both switches exhibit light characteristics, making them suitable for long typing sessions or extended gaming. The Hibiscus has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, whereas the Silent Frozen (V2) offers slightly lighter specs with an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams. While both switches fall into the light category, the Hibiscus requires a bit more force to actuate and bottom out compared to the Silent Frozen (V2), making the latter the lighter option. This means users seeking an effortless keypress experience may prefer the Silent Frozen (V2), while those who want a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Hibiscus, despite both being relatively easy to press.
Travel distance
Both the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch feature a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them identical in this aspect. Since they share the same travel distance, you can expect a similar tactile experience when pressing down on keys equipped with either switch. This similarity in travel distance suggests that users should not notice any significant difference in the overall key feel or actuation depth between the two switches.
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 Frozen (V2) has an MSRP of $8.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Frozen (V2) for $5.33.
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 switch produces a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy tone that can be quite engaging for those who appreciate audible feedback while typing. This sound profile stands in stark contrast to the TTC Silent Frozen (V2), which is designed to deliver an extremely quiet experience. The Silent Frozen switches exhibit a muted character with a low-pitched sound, often described as thocky, which brings a soft, deep thud when pressed. This muted nature allows for a typing experience that minimizes noise, making it a great option for shared workspaces or late-night gaming sessions without disturbing others.
In terms of feel, the HMX Hibiscus offers an unparalleled smoothness that provides a pristine typing experience, making it stand out among mechanical switches. However, the specifics of its feel aren't detailed in the provided information. Conversely, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) is characterized by a creamy and buttery sensation. This smooth, silky typing experience is enhanced by the light actuation force, making it feel feathery and subtle under the fingers. Users can expect a polished touch with these switches, promoting comfortable extended use, whether for gaming or office tasks.
Overall, both the HMX Hibiscus and TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switches cater to unique preferences in the mechanical keyboard landscape. The Hibiscus is geared towards those who enjoy a more pronounced sound and smooth typing experience, while the Silent Frozen (V2) is ideal for users seeking a quieter, more subdued keystroke with an exceptionally smooth feel. Whether you desire the poppy sounds of the Hibiscus or the serene silence of the Silent Frozen, both offer distinct and enjoyable typing experiences that cater to different environments and personal preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing environment. If you're seeking a switch that offers a vibrant and engaging sound with a satisfying poppy feel, the HMX Hibiscus would be an excellent choice for you. The lighter actuation force of 48 grams enhances a responsive typing experience, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more tactile feedback during typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, if you're looking for a whisper-quiet switch that doesn't compromise on smoothness, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) should be your go-to option. Its extremely low sound profile paired with a creamy, buttery feel allows for seamless typing without disturbing those around you, making it perfect for shared spaces like offices or libraries. In summary, choose the Hibiscus for an expressive typing experience and the Silent Frozen (V2) for a serene, polished atmosphere. Your specific needs and typing habits will ultimately guide your decision.
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