HMX Lotus (Heavy) vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the landscape of mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and TTC Speed Silver each present unique advantages tailored to different typing preferences. The HMX Lotus (Heavy) stands out with a medium-heavy actuation force of 62.5g, delivering a satisfyingly bouncy feel alongside its bright, resonant sound, making it an appealing choice for those who enjoy tactile feedback with every keystroke. In contrast, the TTC Speed Silver focuses on speed and precision, featuring a lighter resistance for quick actuation and a clean sound profile, ideal for gamers and typists who prioritize rapid, effortless input. Each switch embodies distinct characteristics suited to varying user needs—whether you crave a robust, satisfying typing experience or the swift responsiveness of a racing switch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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 Speed Silver, one notable distinction lies in the materials used for the top housing. The Lotus (Heavy) utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is primarily due to nylon's softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the Speed Silver features a polycarbonate top housing, which offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The rigid nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound profile, making it particularly suitable for users looking for a bright auditory feedback, especially in RGB lighting setups.
While the top housings of the two switches differ significantly, they share a commonality in their bottom housing material. Both the Lotus (Heavy) and Speed Silver employ nylon for their bottom housing. This uniformity means that regardless of the different top housing materials, both switches are likely to deliver similar results in terms of sound profile when typing. The nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, and because both switches utilize this soft plastic, users can expect comparable acoustic characteristics when they bottom out the keys. The nuances in these switches may thus arise mainly from the interaction of their respective top housings.
The impact of these material differences is crucial in understanding how each switch will feel and sound during use. The bottom housing typically dictates the sensation and sound when a key is fully pressed down, while the top housing influences the auditory feedback upon release. Therefore, combining a nylon bottom housing with differing top materials means that typing on the Lotus (Heavy) will feel soft and resonate deeply, while the Speed Silver will offer a brighter, sharper note on release, influenced by the polycarbonate. In this way, users will experience the unique characteristics of both switches, providing a varied yet satisfying user experience across different typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, notable differences arise. The HMX Lotus (Heavy) features an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, categorizing it as a medium switch that provides a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the TTC Speed Silver has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it medium-light. This means that the Lotus (Heavy) requires more effort to press down, appealing to users who prefer a tangible resistance when typing. Conversely, the Speed Silver's lighter forces make it ideal for those who appreciate a gentler touch, potentially allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Overall, the Lotus (Heavy) is the heavier switch, while the Speed Silver is the lighter option, catering to different preferences in typing feel and tactile feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, a clear distinction emerges. The Lotus (Heavy) has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Speed Silver measures 3.4 mm. This difference of just 0.1 mm may seem minimal, but it can affect the overall feel of the switch. Gamers and users seeking quick response times may find the shorter 3.4 mm travel of the Speed Silver more appealing, as it allows for rapid key presses. Conversely, those who prefer a fuller key press might opt for the HMX Lotus (Heavy) due to its deeper travel distance, creating a more substantial feedback during use. Thus, if you lean towards responsiveness, the TTC Speed Silver is the more suitable choice, whereas the HMX Lotus (Heavy) provides a slightly richer keystroke 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 Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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 HMX Lotus (Heavy) switch stands out with its bright, resonant sound that provides an engaging auditory feedback with each keystroke. This can enhance the typing experience, particularly for users who enjoy a more pronounced acoustic element in their mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch features a neutral sound profile which is moderate and unobtrusive. This makes it suitable for a variety of environments, whether at home or in a workplace setting, where a less pronounced sound may be preferred. Overall, while the Lotus (Heavy) produces a more vibrant sound, the Speed Silver offers a more subdued auditory experience, catering to different preferences.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) delivers a super bouncy typing experience thanks to its medium-heavy weight of 62.5g, which provides a certain level of resistance that many users might find satisfying. This weight can contribute to a more intentional and deliberate typing rhythm. Conversely, the TTC Speed Silver offers a gentle typing experience that is characterized as mild and polished. This smooth refinement results in a very sleek key travel, reducing friction and allowing for quick actuation while still being approachable for all users. Consequently, the Lotus (Heavy) might appeal to those who enjoy a heavier switch with a bouncy feel, while the Speed Silver caters to users who prioritize a smooth, more effortless typing action.
In summary, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and TTC Speed Silver switches present distinct qualities that cater to different typing preferences. The Lotus switch boasts a bright sound and a bouncy, medium-heavy feel, making it ideal for users who relish an engaging typing experience. In contrast, the Speed Silver offers a neutral sound and a mild, polished feel that emphasizes speed and smoothness, appealing to those who value quick, precise key presses. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in both auditory and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To wrap up, both the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch have their unique strengths, making them well-suited for different preferences and typing styles. If you find joy in a bouncier feel with a bit more resistance and appreciate a satisfying, resonant sound when you type, then the Lotus (Heavy) would likely enhance your experience. Its heavier bottom-out force of 62.5 grams appeals to those who prefer a robust tactile feedback that makes each keystroke feel intentional. On the other hand, if speed and efficiency are your priorities, the TTC Speed Silver is an excellent choice. With its lighter 55-gram actuation force and reduced travel distance, it allows for rapid, effortless typing, making it ideal for gamers or those who type quickly and value precision. The neutral sound profile of the Speed Silver makes it versatile enough for both home and office use without being distracting. In essence, choosing between these two switches boils down to whether you prefer a more substantial, tactile experience with the Lotus or a swift and smooth typing experience with the Speed Silver.
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