TTC Speed Silver vs. HMX Twilight
An in-depth look at the TTC Speed Silver and the HMX Twilight switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preference and the intended use of the keyboard. The TTC Speed Silver switch excels for users who prioritize a fast and precise typing experience, thanks to its light-medium resistance and reduced travel distance that allow for quick actuation and a clean, polished sound profile. Conversely, the HMX Twilight switch offers a longer travel distance of 3.85mm, creating a slightly quieter typing experience while still retaining the signature clacky characteristics that many enthusiasts cherish. Both switches are designed for linear performance, making them appealing to gamers and typists alike, but they cater to different needs depending on whether one seeks speed or a more pronounced tactile feedback. 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
45g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.85 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Speed Silver and the HMX Twilight switches, a clear distinction arises in the choice of materials used for their top housings. The Speed Silver features a polycarbonate top housing, renowned for its ability to produce a sharper and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to polycarbonate's stiffer nature, which enhances sound resonance and clarity. In contrast, the Twilight uses a nylon top housing, which is characterized by its softer texture that results in a delightfully deeper and fuller sound profile. This fundamental difference in material properties leads to distinct auditory experiences, with polycarbonate catering to those preferring brightness and clarity, while nylon delivers a warmer, more rounded sound.
Despite the differences in the top housing materials, the bottom housings of both switches share a commonality, as they are both constructed from nylon. This creates a sense of continuity in the auditory experience, as nylon's absorbing qualities ensure a deeper and fuller sound when pressed. Therefore, while the Speed Silver’s top housing offers a bright and crisp response, the nylon bottom housing serves to balance this with a rounder sound profile. Consequently, the overall effect is a nuanced sound output that combines both characteristics, providing a well-rounded typing experience.
Ultimately, the combination of different housing materials in the Speed Silver and HMX Twilight creates a layered auditory experience. While the top housing of each switch plays a significant role in determining sound quality upon release—polycarbonate bringing clarity and nylon contributing warmth—the bottom housing's influence ensures that both switches maintain a fuller sound profile. Thus, users can expect a rich auditory experience with both switches, albeit with unique tonal qualities as a result of their contrasting top housing materials. This segmented contribution of materials results in a holistic sound experience that is shaped by both the top and bottom housings, catering to diverse player preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the TTC Speed Silver linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, we find notable differences that cater to different preferences among users. The Speed Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, which classifies it as medium-light, making it suitable for those who prefer a balanced typing experience with some tactile resistance. In contrast, the HMX Twilight features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, appealing to users who prefer a softer touch for longer typing sessions or extended gaming. As such, the Twilight switch is the lighter option overall, while the Speed Silver is heavier. Both switches provide distinct experiences, with the Speed Silver offering a slightly firmer feel and the Twilight delivering a more effortless keystroke, thus allowing users to select based on their individual needs and typing styles.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Speed Silver linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, a clear distinction emerges: the Speed Silver features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Twilight has a longer travel distance of 3.85 mm. This difference highlights the Speed Silver's design, catering to individuals who prioritize responsiveness and swift key actuation, especially beneficial for gamers seeking quicker response times. Conversely, the Twilight's longer travel distance may appeal to those who appreciate a more substantial key press, as it offers a more pronounced feedback during typing or gaming. Ultimately, if you prefer a more immediate and responsive experience, the Speed Silver is the ideal choice, whereas the Twilight caters to those who enjoy a deeper feel in their keystrokes.
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 Twilight has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Twilight 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
In terms of sound, the TTC Speed Silver switch has a neutral profile, characterized by a moderate actuation force and a balanced sound level that makes it versatile for various environments, be it at home or in an office setting. It’s designed to produce a pristine sound that won’t be overly disruptive, appealing to users who prefer a more understated auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight switch is noted for its slightly quieter output, thanks to its extended 3.85mm travel distance. This design mitigates some of the louder characteristics often present in linears, making it an ideal choice for users who want a combination of performance and minimal noise.
When it comes to the feel of each switch, the Speed Silver provides a mild typing experience that is friendly for both new and seasoned typists. The combination of a light-medium resistance and polished action contributes to a smooth and refined typing experience, where users can enjoy swift key presses without the distraction of excessive friction or tactile feedback. The mild characteristics of this switch make it approachable for various typing styles. The specifics of the HMX Twilight's feel remain unknown, but it can generally be inferred that its construction—boasting a longer travel distance—may offer a different tactile sensation compared to the more gentle and polished Speed Silver.
In conclusion, if you're selecting between the TTC Speed Silver and the HMX Twilight switches, both offer unique qualities tailored to different preferences. The Speed Silver stands out with its neutral sound profile and polished, mild feel, catering to typists who value speed and smoothness. In contrast, the Twilight's quieter sound and extended travel options may appeal to those who prefer a less intrusive auditory experience. Ultimately, both switches can deliver enjoyable experiences, but your choice should depend on whether you prioritize speed and smoothness or a quieter and potentially more tactile experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, your choice between the TTC Speed Silver linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prioritize speed and precision, especially for gaming or rapid typing, the Speed Silver is the ideal option. Its medium-light resistance of 55 grams and reduced travel distance promote quick actuation, making it well-suited for those who need to respond swiftly in fast-paced environments. Additionally, its neutral sound profile and polished feel deliver a well-rounded experience that is approachable for both beginners and seasoned typists alike. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter and possibly quieter typing experience, the HMX Twilight with its 50 grams of bottom-out force and extended travel distance might be more your style. The Twilight’s design can provide a unique tactile sensation, and while it maintains a gentle typing sound, it still offers the pronounced characteristics of HMX switches. Thus, you should choose the Speed Silver for efficiency and heightened performance, whereas the Twilight is perfect for a more relaxed typing experience with its distinctive clacky sound and smooth operation. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your typing style, the environments in which you’ll use your keyboard, and what feels most comfortable for you.
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