HMX Lotus (Heavy) vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Mechanical keyboard enthusiasts often find themselves navigating a plethora of switch options, each offering unique characteristics to cater to specific typing preferences. For those seeking a switch that combines a medium-heavy actuation weight with a vibrant acoustic profile, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) stands out as a compelling choice. With its 62.5g resistance, this linear switch delights users with a super bouncy feel that enhances the tactile feedback of every keystroke, making it particularly appealing for fast typists and gamers alike. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown switches provide a more subdued tactile experience, perfect for those who prioritize a comfortable typing environment with minimal noise. With a light to medium actuation force and a rounded tactile bump, these switches offer a buttery and polished feel, ideal for office settings or shared spaces where quiet operation is essential. Choosing between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference: the lively responsiveness of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) versus the muted sophistication of the TTC Silent Brown. 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the TTC Silent Brown, we see a distinct divergence in their top housing components. The Lotus (Heavy) features a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to create a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its softer characteristics. This material absorbs sound effectively, leading to a duller, more rounded auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the Silent Brown uses a polycarbonate top housing, which is a stiffer material that produces a crisper, sharper sound. The translucence of polycarbonate not only enhances the aesthetic by allowing RGB lighting to shine through but also results in a more clear and resonant sound profile, making the tactile feedback distinctly brighter than that of the nylon.
However, when we analyze the bottom housing materials of both switches, a notable similarity emerges. Both the Lotus (Heavy) and the Silent Brown utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This choice in material ensures that the deeper sound profile associated with nylon is consistent across both switches. When pressed, the qualities of the bottom housing predominantly influence the bottom-out feel and sound, meaning both switches will produce a similar auditory experience from the base when bottoming out. Although the top housings are different, the shared nylon bottom housing essentially balances the overall typing experience by creating that signature, rounded sound characteristic of nylon.
In conclusion, while the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the TTC Silent Brown employ different top housing materials, the shared nylon composition in their bottom housings helps to forge a familiarity in feel and sound at the bottom-out point. The nylon of both switches reinforces a deeper auditory experience, ensuring that participants can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and tactile feedback, despite the variance in the top section of the switches. Thus, the contrasts in top housing serve to differentiate the switches while the consistent bottom housing ties them together, creating distinct yet harmonious typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, notable differences emerge. The Lotus (Heavy) has an actuation force of 55 grams, which is heavier than the TTC Silent Brown’s 45 grams. This makes the Silent Brown easier to actuate, appealing to users who prefer a lighter key feel for extended typing sessions or gaming. However, the bottom out forces are quite close, with the Lotus at 62.5 grams and the Silent Brown at 63.5 grams; both fall into the medium to medium-heavy range, suggesting that while the Silent Brown is lighter to press initially, the overall force required to bottom out is more substantial, especially when considering the tactile feedback it provides. For users who enjoy a more robust typing experience, the heavier actuation of the Lotus (Heavy) may be preferable, while those who favor ease of use may lean towards the Silent Brown.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch at 3.5 mm is shorter than that of the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Consequently, users who favor rapid responsiveness, such as gamers, may prefer the Lotus switch due to its shorter travel distance, allowing for quicker actuation. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switch, with its longer travel distance, may be more suited to those who enjoy a more substantial keypress experience, as it provides a deeper feel that some users find satisfying. Ultimately, while both switches serve different preferences, the choice between them hinges on whether one prioritizes speed or depth in their typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Lotus (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus (Heavy) for $2.99.
The TTC Silent Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Brown for $3.68.
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
When comparing the sound qualities of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, a notable contrast emerges. The Lotus (Heavy) is characterized by a bright, resonant sound that announces each keystroke with clarity, making it suitable for those who enjoy an audible typing experience. In contrast, the Silent Brown excels in providing a muted sound profile that significantly reduces the mechanical noise typically associated with keyboards, allowing for a quieter environment. This makes the Silent Brown an ideal choice for office settings or shared spaces where noise might be a concern.
In terms of feel, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) offers a super bouncy sensation owing to its medium-heavy actuation force of 62.5g, creating a lively and responsive typing experience that many find delightful. The switch enables quick typing with a lively feedback loop. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown switches provide a buttery and polished typing experience, characterized by a smooth and fluid feel due to their light-medium resistance and rounded tactile bump. With a mild approach to resistance, they cater to users seeking a comfortable, non-intimidating typing experience that still delivers tactile feedback without being overwhelming.
In conclusion, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and TTC Silent Brown switches cater to different preferences and environments. If you prefer a more dynamic, pronounced sound and a bouncy feel, the Lotus (Heavy) would be the better choice. Conversely, if you value a quieter operation with a comfortable typing experience and gentle tactile feedback, the Silent Brown is an excellent option. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize acoustics or the feel of your keystrokes.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and environment. If you crave a lively and bouncy typing experience that creates an engaging auditory feedback with its bright sound profile, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) is the way to go. Its medium-heavy actuation force of 62.5 grams offers just the right resistance for an enjoyable and energetic typing rhythm, especially if you enjoy gaming or fast-paced typing tasks. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter, more subdued typing experience that minimizes distractions, the TTC Silent Brown is your best bet. With a slightly heavier actuation force of 63.5 grams, its muted sound and buttery smooth keystrokes provide a polished feel that is comfortable for long hours of typing, making it ideal for office settings or shared environments. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your needs for tactile feedback, sound levels, and overall comfort while typing—each switch has its unique advantages to suit different styles and situations.
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