TTC Honey vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the TTC Honey and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the decision often comes down to personal preference and specific needs. Two popular linear switches to consider are the TTC Honey and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°. The TTC Honey switch is praised for its smooth and creamy feel, along with a deep and pleasant sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° is known for its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, offering unparalleled smoothness, stability, and noise reduction. While the Honey is described as subdued, creamy, frictionless, buttery, subtle, and polished, the Zero Degree 0° does not have specific categories listed. Both switches offer unique benefits and features that cater to different preferences. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can make the best decision on the switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Polycarbonate
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
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Honey and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. This means that both the Honey and the Zero Degree 0° will likely produce similar sound profiles and aesthetics when it comes to their top housing material.
However, where these switches differ is in their choice of material for the bottom housing. The Honey opts for polycarbonate, continuing the trend of sharp and crisp sound profiles that this material offers. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° uses nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. This means that the switches will have contrasting sound characteristics when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel, with the Honey being sharper and the Zero Degree 0° being rounder.
Overall, the choice of housing material plays a significant role in the acoustic properties of mechanical switches. While both the TTC Honey and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, the differences arise in their bottom housing materials. The stiffer polycarbonate of the Honey creates a more resonant and clear sound profile, while the softer nylon of the Zero Degree 0° results in a deeper and fuller sound. Whether you prefer a sharper or rounder sound profile will likely influence your preference between these two switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Honey linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it is evident that the Honey switch is lighter in terms of actuation force at 42 grams, compared to the Zero Degree 0° which requires 45 grams. This means that the TTC Honey switch will allow for quicker keystrokes as less force is needed to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Honey switch requires 50 grams while the force for the Zero Degree 0° is unknown. The difference in bottom out force may result in a more substantial typing experience with the TTC Honey switch, as more force is required to press the key all the way down. Overall, the lighter actuation force of the Honey switch may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions, while the heavier bottom out force may be preferred by those looking for a more substantial typing feel.
Travel distance
The TTC Honey linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their faster response times. The difference of 0.2 mm may not be significant to some users, but for those who prefer a slightly deeper keypress, the Honey switch may provide a bit more satisfaction. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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 provides a subdued and dampened sound when pressed, offering a more subtle sound signature compared to other switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is designed to absorb sound and reduce noise with its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, delivering unparalleled smoothness and stability. Both switches strive to create a quieter typing experience, which can be further enhanced by customizing your keyboard setup with sound-dampening materials and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Honey linear switch is known for its creamy and buttery typing experience, offering a smooth and silk-like sensation that makes keystrokes effortless and enjoyable. The switch is described as frictionless and buttery, providing a fluid travel and a polished finish for a sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the feel of the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch remains unknown. However, based on its revolutionary design focused on smoothness and stability, it can be inferred that this switch also aims to provide a frictionless and comfortable typing feel.
In conclusion, both the TTC Honey linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Honey switch provides a smooth and creamy typing experience with a pleasant sound profile, the Zero Degree 0° switch focuses on silent typing with its innovative design. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. By selecting the switch that aligns with your preferences, you can achieve a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience with either option.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Honey linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams and enjoy a smooth and creamy typing experience with a deep sound profile, the Honey switch may be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quiet typing experience with unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel, the Zero Degree 0° switch with its innovative self-padding design may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
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