TTC Honey vs. Everglide Tourmaline Blue

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two options to consider are the TTC Honey and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue, both of which are linear switches. The Honey switches are widely recognized for their smooth and creamy feel, creating a typing experience that is both luxurious and satisfying. Additionally, these switches produce a deep and pleasant sound profile, further enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Tourmaline Blue switches offer a deep and thocky sound profile, immersing users in a uniquely satisfying typing experience. These switches are equipped with a lengthened single-stage spring, resulting in a bouncy feel with each keystroke. This, combined with their standard spring weight, makes the Tourmaline Blues accessible and enjoyable for a wide range of users. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

TTC Honey Linear

Everglide Tourmaline Blue Linear

$9.99

$6.78 per 10

$6.86

$3.89 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing material used in both the TTC Honey and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switches is polycarbonate, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Due to its relatively stiff nature, polycarbonate produces a more clear and resonant sound. The translucent property of polycarbonate is particularly advantageous for those planning to use RGB lighting, as it allows the light to pass through and create visually stunning effects. With both switches featuring polycarbonate top and bottom housings, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and aesthetic appeal.

The qualities brought by the different housing materials of the top and bottom housings can be appreciated in both the TTC Honey and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switches. When pressing down on the switch, the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel will be influenced more by the bottom housing material. Conversely, the sound when releasing a key will be primarily impacted by the top housing material. The use of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housings ensures that a consistent sharp and crisp sound profile can be achieved throughout the keystrokes in both switches. This provides users with a satisfying auditory experience regardless of whether they are pressing down or releasing a key.

In terms of functionality and performance, the TTC Honey and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switches offer similar advantages with their polycarbonate housing materials. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound profile, resulting in a satisfying typing experience. The aesthetic appeal of both switches is enhanced by the translucent nature of polycarbonate, allowing for vivid RGB lighting effects. Whether it is the Honey or the Tourmaline Blue, users can expect a consistent level of sound quality, responsiveness, and visual impact due to the shared use of polycarbonate in the housing materials.

Weight

When comparing the TTC Honey linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Honey switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, requiring a relatively gentle touch to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Tourmaline Blue switch has a higher actuation force of 59 grams, providing a slightly more resistant push feel. Similarly, in terms of bottom out force, the Honey switch requires 50 grams of force to fully press down, while the Tourmaline Blue switch demands a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams. This indicates that the Tourmaline Blue switch offers a more substantial typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel. However, for individuals who prefer a lighter switch, the Honey switch would be a better option, as it offers a smoother and easier typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preferences and the desired typing or gaming experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Honey linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, it is clear that the Honey has a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Tourmaline Blue has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional distances, both switches are within the accepted range. Gamers tend to prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times, making the Honey switch a popular choice for them. However, for those who prefer a more substantial feel, the Tourmaline Blue with its slightly longer travel distance may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The subjective qualities of the TTC Honey linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch differ slightly in terms of sound and feel.

In terms of sound, the Honey switch is described as having a subdued sound profile. This means that when pressed, the switch produces a dampened sound. It is not completely silent, but it offers a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Tourmaline Blue switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it falls in the middle ground, with a moderate sound profile that is suitable for most intents and purposes. It is neither too loud nor too quiet, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users.

Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Honey switch is known for its creamy and frictionless typing experience. It offers a smooth and buttery sensation, like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. The switch has a gentle resistance, providing a light typing feel. The Tourmaline Blue switch, on the other hand, offers a bouncy and easy-to-press feel. It has a mild typing experience, with gentle resistance during key presses that requires minimal force to activate. This makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions.

In conclusion, the TTC Honey linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch have different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Honey switch has a subdued sound profile and offers a creamy and frictionless typing experience. On the other hand, the Tourmaline Blue switch has a neutral sound profile and provides a bouncy and easy-to-press feel. Depending on your preference, you can choose between the smooth and buttery experience of the Honey switch or the balanced and low-impact typing feel of the Tourmaline Blue switch. Both switches are enjoyable and accessible to a wide range of users, providing a satisfying typing experience.

Conclusion

In closing, if you are looking for a light and smooth typing experience with a pleasant sound profile, the TTC Honey linear switch would be a great choice for you. These switches have a bottom out force of 50 grams, making them light and easy to press. They offer a creamy and frictionless feel, allowing your fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys. The sound produced by the Honey switches is more subdued, providing a subtle and dampened sound signature. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a bouncy feel and a deep thocky sound profile, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch would be a suitable option. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, these switches strike a balance between comfort and responsiveness. They are described as buttery and easy-to-press, offering a seamless and low-impact typing experience. The sound produced by the Tourmaline Blue switches is neutral, making them suitable for various environments and user preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the Honey and Tourmaline Blue switches depends on your desired bottom out force, typing feel, and sound profile.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Honey Linear

$9.99

$6.78 per 10

Learn more

Everglide Tourmaline Blue Linear

$6.86

$3.89 per 10

Learn more