TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering a mechanical keyboard, the choice of switch can significantly influence your typing experience, and two notable options are the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) and the HMX SU switches. The Silent Bluish White (V2) is a tactile switch that strikes a balance between comfort and precision, offering a medium tactile feedback without the accompanying noise, making it an excellent choice for office environments or shared spaces where quietness is paramount. Its buttery and polished feel provides a satisfying typing experience while maintaining a low acoustic footprint. In contrast, the HMX SU is a linear switch known for its deeper, subtle sound profile and smooth keystrokes. This switch allows for rapid key presses without tactile bumps, catering to gamers and typists who prefer a fluid motion without interruption. With either option, your typing experience can be tailored to your preferences—whether you value the tactile feedback and quiet operation of the Silent Bluish White (V2) or the smooth and uninterrupted keystrokes of the HMX SU. 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
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T5
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) and the HMX SU switches exhibit distinct properties in their top housing materials, which significantly influence their acoustic profiles. The Silent Bluish White (V2) is constructed with polycarbonate for the top housing, a material known for its rigidity and transparency. This results in a sharper, more resonant sound when typing, making it especially compatible with RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the HMX SU employs a nylon top housing, a softer plastic that absorbs sound, producing a deeper and fuller acoustic character. Consequently, while the Silent Bluish White (V2) excels in creating a crisper sound profile ideal for bright, vibrant lighting effects, the HMX SU offers a more subdued, rounded sound due to nylon’s inherent properties.
When examining the bottom housings of both switches, we find a shared feature in the choice of nylon material for the Silent Bluish White (V2) and the HMX SU. This commonality allows both switches to generate a consistently deeper sound profile, as nylon is adept at sound absorption, imparting a softer, more muted quality to the bottom-out sound. Thus, regardless of the different materials used in the top housings, both switches will present a similar auditory experience when engaging the same bottom housing material. The nylon bottom housing impacts the feel and sound when the switch is actuated, making both switches capable of delivering satisfying feedback upon keypresses.
In essence, while the top housings of the Silent Bluish White (V2) and HMX SU provide contrasting sound experiences—sharp and resonant versus deep and rounded—their similarities in bottom housing materials foster comparable auditory results during key actuations. The blend of the stiff polycarbonate top of the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) and the softer nylon bottom will create an interesting dichotomy in sound, while the HMX SU's uniform nylon construction maintains a consistent acoustic signature throughout the switching process. Thus, users can expect the nuances of each switch to shine through, affording a rich tapestry of sound profiles shaped by their respective housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch and the HMX SU linear switch, both switches exhibit a light typing experience, but with slight variations in their actuation forces. The Silent Bluish White (V2) has an actuation force of 42 grams, while the HMX SU requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches have the same bottom out force of 50 grams, meaning that regardless of how hard you press, they will bottom out at the same pressure. Consequently, users who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Silent Bluish White (V2) more comfortable for extended use, making it ideal for long typing sessions or gaming. Conversely, those seeking a more substantial push feel will appreciate the slightly heavier actuation force of the HMX SU, which offers a bit more resistance while typing. Overall, while both switches remain on the lighter side, their differences in actuation force cater to varied preferences in typing experiences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch and the HMX SU linear switch, the Silent Bluish White (V2) has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the HMX SU linear switch offers a slightly greater distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the SU switch has a longer travel distance, making it potentially more suitable for those who enjoy a more substantial key press feel, as longer travel distances can provide a sense of depth and feedback. On the other hand, the slightly shorter travel distance of the Silent Bluish White (V2) may appeal to users looking for quicker responsiveness, making it an attractive option for gamers and those who prefer a more immediate actuation. Ultimately, while both switches are relatively close in travel distance, the SILENT Bluish White (V2) offers a shorter distance than the HMX SU linear switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Bluish White (V2) for $5.35.
The HMX SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU for $3.29.
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 TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switches provide a predominantly muted auditory experience, characterized by their quiet design, making them ideal for environments where noise levels need to be kept low. The muted sound profile minimizes the clacking typically associated with mechanical keyboards, ensuring a softer keystroke that won't disrupt those around you. On the other hand, the HMX SU linear switches are noted for having a subtle but relatively deep sound profile. While the precise auditory qualities of the SU switches are not explicitly detailed, the deep tone they provide implies a more resonant sound than the Silent Bluish Whites, suggesting that they may offer a different experience depending on the board and keycap combination used.
In terms of feel, the Silent Bluish White (V2) switches deliver a medium tactile sensation that balances resistance and ease of actuation. They exhibit a buttery smoothness during keystrokes while maintaining a mild yet distinct tactile feedback that many users find comfortable and approachable for extended typing sessions. The experience can be likened to a gentle slope rather than a stark bump, as the steps in feel allow for a nuanced typing experience. Conversely, there is no available information on the tactile feel of the HMX SU switches, so their characteristics in this regard remain unknown.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a quiet yet satisfying typing experience, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switches stand out with their muted sound and pleasant, tactile feel. Meanwhile, the HMX SU linear switches offer a deeper auditory profile but lack detail on their tactile qualities. Therefore, it comes down to personal preference between a more tactile and muted experience versus a potentially deeper sound without the tactile feedback specification. Each switch has its unique attributes, and considering your environment and typing style will ultimately guide your decision.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch and the HMX SU linear switch ultimately depends on your specific preferences and usage scenarios. If you favor a tactile typing experience but want to maintain a quiet environment, the Silent Bluish White (V2) is an excellent option. With its medium tactile feel and muted sound profile, it's particularly suited for office settings or shared spaces where noise might be an issue. You’ll enjoy a satisfying keystroke that gives you feedback without being overly loud, making it ideal for both long typing sessions and casual use. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and uninterrupted keypress experience, the HMX SU linear switch is the way to go. The SU features a full PA12 housing paired with a T5 stem, delivering a subtle, relatively deep sound profile that many users find appealing for personal projects or gaming setups. Its linear characteristics offer a fluid and consistent keystroke without the tactile bump, making it ideal for those who enjoy quick and swift actions without any distraction. In essence, choose the Silent Bluish White (V2) if you prioritize tactility and quietness, while the HMX SU is perfect for those who prefer a smooth, linear feel.
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