TTC Speed Silver vs. HMX Sunset Gleam
An in-depth look at the TTC Speed Silver and the HMX Sunset Gleam switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the benefits of speed and precision against satisfying tactile feedback. The TTC Speed Silver switch shines for those who prioritize rapid keystrokes, offering a light-medium resistance that facilitates quick and effortless actuation thanks to its reduced travel distance. This characteristic makes it an excellent choice for gamers or typists who thrive on swift responses and a pristine sound profile. On the other hand, the HMX Sunset Gleam, affectionately referred to as the Duck Duck switch, provides a unique experience by combining a subtle top-out with an appealing clack, thanks to HMX's renowned factory lube and carefully chosen materials. This switch caters to users who enjoy a more tactile auditory feedback while typing or gaming, creating an engaging experience. Both switches offer distinct advantages, with the Speed Silver excelling in speed and precision, while the Sunset Gleam focuses on a satisfying sound and feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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
Both the TTC Speed Silver and the HMX Sunset Gleam utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which contributes to a remarkably similar sound profile for both switches. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness and translucency, which enhances sound clarity and resonance. This material helps to create a sharper, higher-pitched sound when typing, making each keystroke feel more pronounced. Additionally, the clear nature of polycarbonate makes it especially attractive for setups using RGB lighting, as it diffuses light beautifully, providing an eye-catching glow while maintaining the audible qualities important to typists and gamers alike.
Contrasting the top housing materials with those of the bottom, both the TTC Speed Silver and HMX Sunset Gleam feature nylon in their lower housings. Nylon's unique properties provide a deeper, fuller sound profile compared to the crisper characteristics of polycarbonate. As a softer plastic, nylon dampens sound effectively, resulting in a rounder, more subdued auditory experience as opposed to the sharper top sounds generated by the polycarbonate. Therefore, when users engage with these switches, the nylon bottom housing will absorb some sound energy and create a softer bottom-out experience, leading to a balanced auditory feedback, blending the highs of polycarbonate with the lows of nylon.
Ultimately, while both switches share the same housing materials, their sound profiles are shaped by the interaction between the stiff polycarbonate tops and the softer nylon bottoms. The unique combination results in a well-rounded typing experience, where the heightened clarity from the polycarbonate top contrasts with the deeper tones from the nylon bottom. Each switch will deliver a similar end result in their sound performance due to the cohesive use of materials, while offering distinct auditory characteristics determined by the top and bottom housing dynamics. This synergy allows users to enjoy a typing experience that balances clarity and depth, irrespective of which specific switch they choose.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Speed Silver linear switch to the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Speed Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as medium-light in terms of feel. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam is lighter overall, boasting an actuation force of 42 grams and a lower bottom out force of 48 grams. This means that for users who prefer a lighter touch and less resistance during extended typing or gaming sessions, the Sunset Gleam would be the more suitable choice. Conversely, those seeking a more substantial typing experience might appreciate the slightly heavier force of the Speed Silver. Overall, while both switches provide distinct options, their differing actuation and bottom out forces cater to varied user preferences for typing feel and feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Speed Silver linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, the Speed Silver offers a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Sunset Gleam features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Speed Silver is the shorter option, making it potentially more suitable for gamers who favor quick responsiveness and rapid key presses. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam, with its longer travel distance, may appeal more to users who appreciate a bit more depth in their keystrokes, providing a different tactile experience that some might find more satisfying. Overall, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference: opting for the Speed Silver can yield quicker response times, whereas the Sunset Gleam offers a more pronounced keystroke feel.
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 Sunset Gleam has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sunset Gleam for $2.99.
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 TTC Speed Silver switch has a neutral profile, making it versatile and suitable for a wide range of environments, whether at home or in an office. This means it maintains a moderate sound level without being overly loud or too soft, providing a balanced auditory feedback. The Sunset Gleam, on the other hand, is known for its subtle top-out and satisfying clack, suggesting a more defined auditory signature that might appeal to those who appreciate a bit more character in their keystrokes. However, it’s important to note that the actual sound can significantly depend on the keyboard’s construction and the keycaps used, which may affect the experience for both switches.
When it comes to feel, the Speed Silver switch offers a mild and polished typing experience. Its mild characteristic means that it is approachable for most typists, with a smooth and refined finish that minimizes friction during key travel. This makes for a comfortable and seamless interaction while typing. Since the specifics regarding the feel of the Sunset Gleam are not detailed, it’s difficult to compare directly; however, the excellent factory lube provided by HMX likely enhances its smoothness and overall typing experience, potentially positioning it as a strong competitor to the Speed Silver in terms of feel.
Overall, both the TTC Speed Silver and HMX Sunset Gleam linear switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Speed Silver combines a neutral sound with a mild and polished feel, making it a practical choice for users looking for a balanced performance. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam offers a unique auditory feedback alongside potentially smooth and satisfying operation due to its factory lube, though more specifics on its feel would enhance the comparison. Regardless of the switch chosen, both aim to provide a comfortable typing experience, with the Speed Silver being a well-rounded option and the Sunset Gleam appealing to those who seek a bit more auditory character.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the TTC Speed Silver linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch ultimately hinges on your specific preferences and typing needs. If you prioritize speed and precision, especially for gaming or high-paced typing, the Speed Silver would be your go-to choice due to its medium-light actuation force of 55 grams and reduced travel distance, allowing for a rapid and effortless press. Its neutral sound profile and polished feel also contribute to a smooth and consistent typing experience, making it versatile for both casual and professional environments. On the other hand, if you favor a lighter touch and a more subtle auditory cue, the HMX Sunset Gleam, with its lighter bottom-out force of 48 grams, might be more to your liking. This switch offers a unique combination of excellent factory lube and a pleasant top-out sound, making it ideal for those who appreciate a satisfying tactile experience without the heft of heavier switches. Therefore, assess what matters most in your typing lifestyle—whether it be speed and crispness or lightness and subtlety—to make an informed decision between these two compelling options.
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