TTC Speed Silver vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the TTC Speed Silver and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Speed Silver and HMX SU both present compelling options for those who prefer linear switches, yet they cater to slightly different preferences and use cases. The TTC Speed Silver is ideally suited for gamers and typists who prioritize speed and precision, thanks to its reduced travel distance and light-medium resistance, making for quick and effortless actuation. Conversely, the HMX SU appeals to users who appreciate a more robust feel, featuring a full PA12 housing and a T5 stem that contributes to its subtly deep sound profile, offering a satisfying auditory experience. While the Speed Silver excels in rapid performance and a pristine acoustic profile, the SU provides a distinctive sound and build quality that may attract those looking for a more substantial feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 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 housing materials of the TTC Speed Silver and HMX SU switches present a fascinating contrast in their top construction, which directly influences the sound profile and user experience. The Speed Silver employs a polycarbonate top housing that delivers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is largely due to polycarbonate’s stiffer plastic qualities, resulting in a more resonant audio experience. In contrast, the HMX SU features a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper, fuller sound profile. As nylon is a softer plastic, it absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder auditory experience. Therefore, while both switches utilize high-quality materials, the polycarbonate top of the Speed Silver excels in clarity, while the nylon of the SU provides richness in sound.
On the other hand, both switches share the nylon material in their bottom housings, which creates consistency in sound characteristics for this part of the switch. This choice ensures that users experience a deeper and fuller sound profile with either switch when registering a key press. The similarities in the nylon bottom housing mean that both the Speed Silver and HMX SU will provide a smooth and well-rounded auditory feedback when bottoms-out, as the rubber-like qualities of nylon effectively dampen vibrations, enhancing the overall tactile experience. Thus, despite the difference in their top housings, users can expect a consistent performance in terms of bottom-out sound due to the shared material.
The effects of the varying top housing materials demonstrate how different plastics can enhance or shape the overall sound profile of each switch. With the TTC Speed Silver's polycarbonate top, users will particularly appreciate the sharpness of sound when releasing keys, contrasting with the HMX SU's more muted characteristics. However, both switches will ultimately deliver a robust and fulfilling keypress experience, thanks to their common nylon bottom housing. As a result, the contrasting materials shape distinct individual sound profiles while also offering similar experiences where it matters, especially in the bottoming-out phase. Users can particularly enjoy experimenting with these switches to discover which sound they prefer while benefiting from the reliability offered by the nylon base.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the TTC Speed Silver linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, both switches exhibit the same actuation force of 45 grams, which indicates that they will provide similar keystroke activation experiences. However, their bottom out forces differ, with the Speed Silver requiring a slightly higher force of 55 grams compared to the SU's 50 grams. This makes the HMX SU a lighter option overall, particularly in terms of the bottom out sensation, which can contribute to a less strenuous typing experience for extended use. Meanwhile, the TTC Speed Silver’s heavier bottom out force may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel when reaching the end of a keypress. Ultimately, while both switches share the same actuation force, the TTC Speed Silver’s heavier bottom out force offers a more pronounced typing experience, whereas the HMX SU is better suited for those seeking a lighter touch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Speed Silver linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, the Speed Silver features a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the HMX SU has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference highlights the responsiveness of the Speed Silver, making it a favorable choice for gamers seeking quicker response times. Conversely, the HMX SU's 3.6 mm travel distance offers a slightly deeper feel, which some users may prefer for a more substantial keystroke experience. Consequently, those who prioritize responsiveness would likely gravitate toward the Speed Silver, whereas users who appreciate a more pronounced key press might opt for the HMX SU.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the TTC Speed Silver and HMX SU linear switches, a notable distinction arises. The Speed Silver features a pristine sound profile that can be classified as neutral, meaning it produces a moderate sound level that is suitable for various environments, whether at home or in a professional setting. This makes it quite versatile for different users. In contrast, the HMX SU switch is characterized by a subtle yet relatively deep sound profile, which may offer a richer auditory experience. However, it's important to note that the overall sound can be influenced by the specific keyboard setup, including the choice of board and keycaps, leading to potentially varying auditory results for both switches.
When it comes to feel, the Speed Silver switch provides a mild and polished experience. This means typists will enjoy a gentle tactile sensation paired with smooth key travel, ensuring reduced friction and effortless actuation. The careful design likely involves quality materials and possibly factory lubing, contributing to a refined typing experience. On the other hand, the feel of the HMX SU linear switch remains unspecified, making it difficult to draw direct comparisons. Therefore, while the Speed Silver offers a well-defined tactile and aural quality, the SU's feel remains a variable aspect pending further details.
Overall, both the TTC Speed Silver and HMX SU linear switches exhibit unique qualities that cater to different user preferences. The Speed Silver is well-regarded for its neutral sound and polished feel, making it suitable for a broad audience, while the HMX SU’s subtle, deep sound may appeal to those looking for a richer audio experience. The feel of the SU remains unknown, making it a point of curiosity for potential users. In choosing between these two, one might expect a satisfying typing experience with the Speed Silver, while the SU may yet reveal its own merits with additional information.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between TTC Speed Silver linear switches and HMX SU linear switches ultimately depends on your specific preferences and typing needs. If you prioritize speed and precision, especially for fast-paced gaming or typing scenarios, the TTC Speed Silver is the way to go. With a slightly higher actuation force and a reduced travel distance, these switches provide a responsive feel that facilitates quick action without sacrificing comfort. Their neutral sound profile and mild, polished typing experience make them suitable for both work and home environments, blending performance with versatility. Conversely, if you prefer a lighter touch and a subtler sound experience, the HMX SU linear switches might be your best option. With an even lighter actuation force, these switches offer great ease of use and a satisfying backdrop for everyday typing. Their full PA12 housing contributes to a deeper sonic profile, which can be appealing if you enjoy a richer acoustic experience while you type. Ultimately, choose the Speed Silver for speed and responsiveness and the HMX SU for a lighter, nuanced typing experience, reflecting your distinct approach to keyboard use.
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