TTC Iron vs. HMX Lucky

Overview

When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Iron and HMX Lucky linear switches present two intriguing options that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The TTC Iron switch stands out for its distinctive clacky sound signature that adds an aural dimension to each keystroke, making it an exhilarating choice for users who appreciate auditory feedback. Additionally, its lightweight actuation and buttery smooth travel create a typing experience that is both swift and fatigue-free, appealing to enthusiasts and daily users alike. In contrast, the HMX Lucky switch is designed with softer nylon housings that offer a more neutral but equally satisfying experience, emphasizing comfort and a smooth keystroke without the pronounced sound of the Iron switch. Both options cater to different aspects of the typing experience, with the Iron prioritizing sound feedback and the Lucky aligning with a subtler touch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

TTC Iron Linear

HMX Lucky Linear

$5.40

$4.30 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Iron and the HMX Lucky, both switches utilize distinct materials that contribute to their overall sound profiles during typing. The TTC Iron employs POM (Polyoxymethylene) for both its top and bottom housings, providing a unique sound characterized by deeper and relatively muted tones. This material allows for a consistent auditory experience, as POM is rigid enough to maintain structural integrity while also offering a unique sound profile. In contrast, the HMX Lucky utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, which is traditionally considered a classic choice in switch design. The softer nature of nylon contributes to a fuller and rounder sound, distinctly absorbing sound frequencies to create a deeper auditory experience.

The differences in material properties are pivotal in how each switch feels and sounds during use. POM's rigidity contributes to a more precise and pronounced bottom-out sound, while nylon's softness results in a sound that is warmer and slightly less direct. This distinction affects user perception; for instance, when a key is pressed down, the bottom housing is primarily responsible for the tactile feedback and the bottom-out sound. While the TTC Iron might give more of a pronounced "thunk" upon bottoming out, the HMX Lucky would feel more forgiving and rounded in its feedback, thanks to nylon’s sound-absorbing characteristics. Meanwhile, the top housing's material influences the sound produced when releasing a key, with the hardness of POM providing a brighter release sound as compared to the muted, softer sound of the nylon.

Ultimately, while the TTC Iron’s POM housings and the HMX Lucky’s nylon housings differ in composition and resultant auditory experience, some similarities might be expected, particularly in achieving a pleasing typing experience. The TTC Iron's POM and the HMX Lucky's nylon both create sound profiles on the deeper side, albeit through different mechanisms. In scenarios where users prioritize sound dampening and overall typing comfort, both materials fulfill this requirement, albeit with differing qualitative attributes. Thus, some users may find satisfaction in both switches, appreciating the unique sound feedback respective to their housing materials while recognizing that ultimately, both contribute to a gratifying typing experience.

Weight

The TTC Iron and the HMX Lucky linear switches both feature light actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience. The Iron switch has an actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Lucky switch has a slightly lower actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams. This means that the Lucky switch requires less force to actuate compared to the Iron switch, making it the lighter option. Conversely, the Iron switch, with its higher forces, provides a slightly more substantial feel when typing or gaming, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push. Overall, both switches are designed for comfort during extended use, but the Lucky provides an even lighter experience, which may be favored by those who prioritize comfort over force feedback.

Travel distance

Both the TTC Iron linear switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch have an identical travel distance of 3.8 mm, meaning they provide the same tactile feedback and responsiveness when pressing down on a key. This equal measurement allows users to expect similar results in terms of the key feel and actuation point when using either switch. Therefore, whether one uses the Iron or the Lucky, the experience will be consistent due to their matching travel distance, making them equally suitable for users who prioritize a uniform key press feel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The TTC Iron linear switch is notable for its pronounced clacky sound signature that produces a sharp and snappy auditory experience with each keystroke. This clacky characteristic is crisp and bright, making the typing experience lively and engaging. In contrast, the HMX Lucky linear switch is designed with a more neutral sound profile, which provides moderate auditory feedback. This difference in sound can significantly influence your typing ambiance; those who appreciate the acoustic satisfaction may gravitate towards the Iron, while users seeking a more subdued sound may prefer the Lucky. It's important to note that the final sound will also depend on other elements like the keyboard plate and keycap material.

When it comes to the feel of these switches, the TTC Iron stands out with its exceptionally lightweight actuation force, allowing for easy, fatigue-free typing. The buttery smooth travel of the Iron enhances this experience, making it appealing for both daily use and intensive gaming. The mild resistance provides a comfortable balance that many users find agreeable. On the other hand, the HMX Lucky's feel is characterized as neutral, providing a deeply satisfying typing experience without overwhelming tactile feedback. While the specifics of the Lucky's feel aren't detailed, it is likely to be comfortable and approachable, similar to the Iron, but perhaps with a different emphasis on tactile nuances.

In conclusion, both the TTC Iron and HMX Lucky switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Iron offers a more vibrant typing experience with its clacky sound and light, smooth action, while the Lucky provides a neutral, satisfying feel and sound profile. Ultimately, if you're drawn to one switch's sound and feel, the other could provide a complementary experience, as their differences can help tailor your mechanical keyboard setup to your personal preferences.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the TTC Iron linear switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch ultimately depends on your preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. If you value an audible tactile feedback with a pronounced clacky sound that adds an engaging auditory layer to your keystrokes, then the TTC Iron is an excellent choice. Its light actuation force of 50 grams makes it perfect for those long typing sessions where you want to minimize fatigue, while its buttery smooth travel caters well to a variety of users, from enthusiasts to casual typists. On the other hand, if you're looking for a more neutral, soft typing experience, the HMX Lucky switch shines with its even lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a deeper, satisfying feel. The softer, glittery nylon housing of the Lucky switches offers a great balance for everyday tasks and comfort, making it suitable if you desire a gentle, fatigue-free typing experience without any distractions from sound. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you lean towards auditory gratification and slightly more resistance with the Iron or prefer a quieter, smoother glide with the Lucky.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Iron Linear

$5.40

$4.30 per 10

Learn more

HMX Lucky Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more