HMX Lotus (Heavy) vs. TTC Silent Frozen (V2)
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preference and typing experience. The HMX Lotus (Heavy) switch stands out with its medium-heavy actuation weight of 62.5g, offering a bouncy and responsive feel that adds an engaging tactile dynamism to each keystroke. Its bright, resonant sound enhances the typing experience, making it an appealing option for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) caters to users seeking a quieter experience without sacrificing smoothness. Characterized by its muted, pillowy feel and subtly thocky sound profile, this switch is particularly advantageous for environments where noise is a concern or for those who prefer a more understated typing experience. Both switches appeal to different preferences—whether you cherish the lively feedback of the Lotus or the serene touch of the Silent Frozen. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your unique typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
39g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Silver white spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and TTC Silent Frozen (V2) exhibit notable differences that significantly influence their acoustic profiles and tactile experiences. The Lotus (Heavy) utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing, which is characterized as a softer plastic. This results in a deeper, fuller sound profile, enhancing the perceived warmth of each keystroke. By absorbing sound better than harder plastics, nylon contributes to a more muted acoustic signature. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) employs polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing. This stiffer material produces a sharper and crisper sound profile, leading to a more resonant typing experience. The distinct acoustic properties of these materials set the initial tone for comparing the two switches.
In terms of their aesthetic and functional implications, the use of polycarbonate in the Silent Frozen (V2) is notable for its translucency, making it ideal for RGB lighting setups. The clear housing allows for better light dispersion, creating a visually striking effect when illuminated. Meanwhile, the nylon housings of the Lotus (Heavy) prioritize sound dampening over aesthetic criteria, fostering a more subdued visual and auditory experience. Such differences highlight how the choice of materials not only affects the sound profile but also impacts the overall user experience, including visual aspects. Users may gravitate towards the Silent Frozen (V2) for a bright, engaging typing experience, while those seeking a more classic and subdued feel may favor the Lotus (Heavy).
Despite these differences in materials, the interaction of the top and bottom housings results in specific sound characteristics when the keys are engaged. The nylon housing of the Lotus (Heavy), while producing a deeper sound overall, will also have a softer and rounder impact when bottoming out. Conversely, the polycarbonate of the Silent Frozen (V2) offers a crisper and sharper response when pressed, resulting in a more pronounced acoustic feedback. Ultimately, even with differing materials, users can achieve similar results in terms of responsiveness and sound modulation by understanding how each switch's construction influences their typing experience. By striking a balance between the qualities of the housing materials, users may find distinct touch and auditory sensations that cater to their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch, notable differences emerge in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The HMX Lotus (Heavy) has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) offers a lighter actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, ideal for those who favor a softer touch for longer typing sessions. Consequently, the Silent Frozen (V2) is the lighter option, while the Lotus (Heavy) is the heavier switch. Users choosing between these switches will find that the Lotus provides a firmer feedback, whereas the Silent Frozen ensures a more delicate touch, catering to different preferences for typing feel and endurance.
Travel distance
The HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch both feature a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them comparable in terms of how far the switch travels when pressed. Because both switches share the same travel distance, users can expect similar tactile feedback and key travel experiences when operating each switch. This equivalence ensures that whether one opts for the HMX Lotus or the TTC Silent Frozen, they will not notice any significant difference in the keypress depth, leading to a consistent typing feel across both switches.
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 Frozen (V2) has an MSRP of $8.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Frozen (V2) for $5.33.
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 it comes to sound, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switch is characterized by a bright and resonant sound profile that can bring an engaging auditory experience to your typing. Its sound is likely to be more pronounced and lively when compared to many other switches, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a more expressive sound. In contrast, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switch is designed for a significantly quieter operation; it features a thocky, low-pitched tone that combines a deep richness with a muted quality. This provides a soft and satisfying auditory feedback when typing, perfect for those who want to minimize noise levels in shared environments or prefer a discreet setup. Thus, while the Lotus adds vibrancy to every keystroke, the Silent Frozen offers a more subdued typing experience.
In terms of feel, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) is known for its medium-heavy weight of 62.5g, which translates into a super bouncy and satisfying keystroke that feels responsive and lively under your fingers. This makes it an ideal choice for typists who appreciate a bit of feedback from their switches, as the heavier actuation force can provide a more engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) excels in delivering a creamy, buttery feel, providing a remarkably smooth and polished motion as each key is pressed. Its lightness also contributes to a feathery typing experience, reducing finger fatigue, which is beneficial for extended typing sessions. Therefore, while the Lotus emphasizes tactile feedback with its weight, the Silent Frozen focuses on an effortlessly smooth travel that enhances comfort.
In conclusion, both the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Lotus offers a vibrant auditory feedback and a bouncy typing experience, making it ideal for users who enjoy a more tactile and responsive switch. Conversely, the Silent Frozen prioritizes a quiet, smooth, and comfortable experience, suitable for those who value discretion and ease of use during long typing sessions. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will hinge on your personal preferences regarding sound and tactile experience, as each delivers unique emotional and practical rewards for your keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, the choice between the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing environment. If you prefer a more tactile experience with a medium-heavy resistance that delivers a bouncy feel and a bright sound profile, the Lotus (Heavy) is the ideal choice. Its 62.5g bottom-out force offers satisfying feedback when typing, making it perfect for those who enjoy a more dynamic interaction with their keyboard. This switch is suited for gamers and typists who appreciate a little extra heft and a lively sound, providing enjoyable auditory and tactile feedback. On the other hand, if you're seeking a switch that caters to quiet environments—be it in shared workspaces, libraries, or simply at home—the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) would serve you well. With its lighter 43g bottom-out force, this switch offers a creamy, buttery feel that reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions, ensuring comfort without sacrificing performance. Its thocky yet muted sound profile means you can enjoy a smooth keystroke experience without disturbing those around you. Ultimately, your decision should align with your typing habits and the environment in which you’ll be using your keyboard, ensuring that you find the perfect switch for your needs.
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