TTC Honey vs. Cherry MX Black
An in-depth look at the TTC Honey and the Cherry MX Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Honey and the Cherry MX Black are two popular options to consider. Both switches fall under the linear category, offering a smooth typing experience without the tactile feedback found in other switch types. The Honey is best known for its smooth and creamy feel, providing a frictionless typing experience that feels almost buttery. The switches also produce a deep and pleasant sound profile, adding to the overall enjoyment of use. On the other hand, Cherry has further perfected the iconic MX Black switches with their new Hyperglide tooling. These switches offer a classic textured smoothness when typing, allowing for precise keystrokes. Similar to the Honey, the MX Black switches also feature a deep sound profile, enhancing the auditory experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
25.5 mm lengthened spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Honey and the Cherry MX Black switches differ in terms of their characteristics and resulting sound profiles. The Honey features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, its translucency makes it ideal for use with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the MX Black utilizes a nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound.
Similarly, the bottom housings of the Honey and MX Black switches differ. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Honey contributes to a sharper and crisper sound when the key is pressed down. Its stiffness allows for a more clear and resonant bottom-out sound and feel. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing of the MX Black generates a deeper and fuller sound when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder bottom-out sound.
Overall, the TTC Honey and Cherry MX Black switches provide distinct sound profiles due to their housing materials. The Honey's polycarbonate housing creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound, both on top and bottom. Conversely, the MX Black's nylon housing produces a deeper and fuller sound on both top and bottom, but with a duller quality. Despite their differences, both switches offer satisfying and unique sound experiences depending on the desired aesthetic and preference of the user.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Honey linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, there are notable differences. The Honey switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the MX Black switch's 60 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes on the Honey switch. Similarly, the Honey switch has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, while the MX Black switch requires a heavier force of 80 grams to fully press down. This means that the MX Black switch provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel compared to the lighter and smoother typing experience offered by the Honey switch. If a user prefers a lighter typing experience, allowing them to type for longer periods, the Honey switch would be a suitable choice. However, for those who prefer a heavier and more pronounced keystroke, the MX Black switch would be the better option. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces play an important role in determining the overall feel and experience of a keyboard, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Honey linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, we find that the Honey has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the MX Black has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the MX Black being more common at 4 mm. However, the shorter travel distance of the Honey switch might be preferred by gamers who prioritize faster response times. On the other hand, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance of the Honey switch to be too abrupt, and may prefer the slightly deeper feel of the MX Black switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for responsiveness and depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Honey has an MSRP of $9.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey for $6.78.
The Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 per 10 switches.
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 Honey linear switch offers a subdued sound profile. This means that when the switch is pressed, it produces a dampened sound that is not completely silent but is more subtle compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black linear switch has a low-pitched sound profile. This type of switch typically has a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the TTC Honey is described as having a creamy, frictionless, buttery, subtle, and polished feel. These descriptors indicate that the Honey switch offers a smooth and buttery typing experience with a seamless and effortless sensation. It also minimizes any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys, resulting in a fluid travel. The Honey switch has a gentle resistance without being feather light, making it suitable for a light typing feel. The polished finish and potential factory lubing contribute to a sleek and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In contrast, the Cherry MX Black switch is described as having a textured and stiff feel. The textured nature of these switches means that there is noticeable friction when they are pressed. Some users may prefer this subtle texture, while others prefer a smoother and friction-free typing experience. Additionally, the MX Black switch requires a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out compared to other switches, making it stiffer and requiring more force to press the keys.
Based on the available information, it is clear that the subjective qualities of the TTC Honey and Cherry MX Black switches differ in terms of both sound and feel. The Honey offers a more subdued sound profile, while the MX Black has a low-pitched sound. In terms of feel, the Honey switch provides a creamy, frictionless, buttery, subtle, and polished experience, while the MX Black switch is characterized by its textured and stiff feel. When comparing these switches, individuals can expect different auditory and tactile experiences depending on their preference. However, it's important to keep in mind that individual nuances like the keyboard board and keycaps used can also influence the overall sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a light and smooth typing experience with a pleasant sound profile, the TTC Honey linear switch may be the right choice for you. With a bottom out force of 50 grams, these switches offer a creamy and buttery feel that allows your fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys. The subdued sound signature of the Honey switch also makes it suitable for shared spaces, as it is not overly resonant. Conversely, if you prefer a heavier switch with a textured and stiff feel, the Cherry MX Black linear switch may be more to your liking. With a bottom out force of 80 grams, the MX Black offers a classic textured smoothness, but requires more force to actuate and bottom out. It also has a low-pitched sound profile that provides a mellow and bass-heavy typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for key weight, typing feel, and sound profile.
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