TTC Honey vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the TTC Honey and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Honey linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, it's important to consider the distinct characteristics of each. The TTC Honey is well-loved for its smooth and creamy feel, along with a deep and pleasant sound profile. It is often described as 'subdued', 'buttery', and 'polished'. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L is part of Sillyworks' innovative "Project Rehash" and is known for revitalizing classic travel distances with modern factory lubing practices. It is the lightest in its series, requiring only 45g to bottom out, and offers a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum. Categorized as 'neutral', 'subdued', and 'feathery', the Type L is easy to press. 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
38g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Yes
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
25.5 mm lengthened spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Honey and the Gateron Type L, it is clear that they both offer distinct sound profiles based on the type of plastic used. The polycarbonate top housing of the Honey creates a sharper and crisper sound, while the nylon top housing of the Type L elicits a deeper and fuller sound. This difference in sound profile is attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate in the Honey and the softness of nylon in the Type L. Both materials have their own unique qualities that contribute to the overall typing experience.
Similarly, when considering the bottom housing materials of the Honey and the Type L, the differences in sound profile become apparent. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Honey produces a sharper and crisper sound, while the nylon bottom housing of the Type L creates a deeper and fuller sound. Again, these differences can be attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate in the Honey and the softer nature of nylon in the Type L. These distinct sound profiles offer users a variety of options based on their sound preferences and typing style.
Overall, the combination of top and bottom housing materials in a switch greatly impacts the sound profile and overall typing experience. While the Honey and the Type L have different housing materials for both the top and bottom, each material contributes to a specific aspect of the sound profile. The polycarbonate housing in the Honey creates a more resonant sound when pressing down on a key, while the nylon housing in the Type L absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder sound when typing. Understanding the impact of housing materials on sound can help users make informed decisions when choosing between switches.
Weight
The TTC Honey linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch both have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces compared to other switches on the market. The Honey has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Type L has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. These forces make both switches ideal for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. The slight difference in force between the two switches may not be very noticeable in practical use, so users can expect similar results in terms of feel and performance. Overall, the Honey switch is slightly heavier than the Type L switch, but both are considered to be on the lighter end of the spectrum in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Honey linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8mm, which is shorter than the 4mm travel distance of the Gateron Type L linear switch. The Honey switch offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice for gamers looking for rapid key presses. On the other hand, the Type L switch provides a bit more depth and may feel more substantial when typing or gaming. Depending on your preference for travel distance, you can choose the Honey switch for a quicker response or the Type L switch for a more significant keypress feel. Both switches offer unique benefits based on their travel distance, so you can expect similar results in terms of performance and feel, just with a slight difference in the length of travel.
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 Gateron Type L comes in at $4.70 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 produces a more subdued sound profile, offering a dampened and subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L linear switch delivers a neutral sound with a hint of subtlety, leaning towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum. Both switches provide a pleasing auditory experience, with the Honey switch being slightly quieter and the Type L switch offering a more nuanced tone. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Honey switch is renowned for its creamy and frictionless typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery feel that glides effortlessly under your fingers. The Type L switch, on the other hand, provides a feathery and easy-to-press sensation, requiring minimal force to activate and reducing finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. Both switches excel in providing a comfortable and responsive typing feel, with the Honey switch leaning towards a more luxurious and silky experience, while the Type L switch focuses on ease of use and low-impact typing.
In conclusion, while the TTC Honey linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch have their own unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, they both offer a high-quality typing experience. Whether you prefer a smoother and creamy feel like the Honey switch or a lighter and easier-to-press sensation like the Type L switch, both switches are great options for enthusiasts looking for linear switches with distinct qualities. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on your personal preferences in sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Honey linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force at 50 grams and enjoy a smooth and creamy typing experience with a deep sound profile, the TTC Honey switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force at 45 grams and appreciate a switch with a sound signature that elegantly veers towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum, along with a feathery and easy-to-press typing feel, then the Gateron Type L switch might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to your personal typing preferences and priorities.
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