HMX Cheese vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cheese and the TTC Speed Silver are two popular options to consider. The HMX Cheese switch is renowned for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, offering a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. These ultra-light linear switches are lighter than 90% of all switches, providing a unique typing sensation. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver switch is known for its fast and precise typing experience. These linear switches have a light-medium level of resistance and a pristine sound profile, perfect for those who value speed and accuracy in their typing. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics that appeal to different preferences. 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
46g
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
Ly
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
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cheese and the TTC Speed Silver, a noticeable difference can be seen in their top housing materials. The Cheese utilizes a nylon top housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic properties that absorb more sound. On the other hand, the Speed Silver features a polycarbonate top housing, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to its stiffer plastic composition. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the Cheese's nylon top housing creates a duller and rounder sound compared to the resonant and clear sound of the Speed Silver's polycarbonate top housing.
Moving on to the bottom housing comparison, both the HMX Cheese and the TTC Speed Silver use nylon bottom housings. This classic switch housing material offers a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound with its softer plastic composition. The similarities in bottom housing material between the two switches suggest that typing on switches using nylon elicits a consistent sound profile that is duller and rounder. Despite the shared material, the impact of the bottom housing on the switch's sound and feel remains significant, contributing to the overall typing experience on both switches.
When considering the overall impact of the housing materials on the switches, it is important to note that differences in top and bottom housing materials can lead to varied sound profiles. The qualities brought by each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing affecting the sound when a key is released. While the HMX Cheese and TTC Speed Silver both offer distinct sound profiles based on their housing materials, the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing suggests a potential similarity in the typing experience between the two switches.
Weight
The HMX Cheese linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch differ in their actuation and bottom out forces. The HMX Cheese has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, while the TTC Speed Silver has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the Cheese switch is lighter overall compared to the Speed Silver switch, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. The Speed Silver, on the other hand, offers a slightly stronger push feel, which may appeal to users looking for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches provide smooth linear key presses, but the slight differences in actuation and bottom out forces give users the option to choose the one that best suits their preferences. Ultimately, those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the HMX Cheese, while those who prefer a stronger push feel may opt for the TTC Speed Silver.
Travel distance
The HMX Cheese linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the TTC Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Cheese slightly longer in travel distance than the Speed Silver. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their quicker response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may lead to a slightly different feel when typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two may come down to personal preference, with the Cheese offering a slightly longer travel distance for those who prefer a bit more depth in their key presses.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cheese has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cheese for $4.29.
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 Cheese linear switch is best known for its satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound profile, providing a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and settings. The sound produced by both switches will also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Cheese switch offers an unparalleled smoothness and typing experience, which is accentuated by its ultra-light actuation. In comparison, the TTC Speed Silver switch provides a mild and gentle typing feel, suitable for a wide range of users due to its polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches fall in the moderate actuation force range, providing a comfortable typing experience for most users.
Overall, the HMX Cheese and TTC Speed Silver linear switches offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the Cheese switch provides a unique and satisfyingly clacky sound along with a smooth typing feel, the Speed Silver switch offers a neutral sound profile and a polished, gentle typing experience. Depending on personal preference and typing style, users can achieve similar results in terms of smoothness and precision with either switch, ultimately providing a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you prioritize a light and smooth typing feel with a satisfying sound profile, the Cheese may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a fast and precise typing experience with a moderate level of resistance and a neutral sound profile, the Speed Silver might be more suited to your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it's important to choose based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for you.
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