HMX Lotus vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Lotus linear switch to the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, one can see distinctive characteristics that set them apart. The Lotus switch, with a medium weight of 50g bottom out and a bright, resonant sound, provides a bouncy and delightful typing experience for users. On the other hand, the Speed Silver switch is perfect for those seeking a fast and precise typing experience, with light-medium resistance and reduced travel distance for quick actuation. While the Lotus switch offers a unique feel with its bouncy sensation, the Speed Silver switch excels in providing a swift and accurate typing experience. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
POM
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
The housing materials of the HMX Lotus and TTC Speed Silver switches differ in terms of the top housing material used. The Lotus utilizes nylon for its top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. On the other hand, the Speed Silver features a polycarbonate top housing, leading to a sharper and crisper sound profile thanks to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. This contrast in top housing material contributes to a difference in sound output between the two switches, with the Lotus offering a duller and rounder sound compared to the more clear and resonant sound of the Speed Silver.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Lotus and Speed Silver switches feature nylon bottom housings. This shared housing material results in a similar typing experience for both switches, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the sound-absorbing properties of nylon. Despite the differences in the top housing materials, the similarity in the bottom housing material ensures that users can expect comparable sound and feel when typing on either the Lotus or Speed Silver switches. The shared nylon bottom housing also contributes to a consistent typing experience across both switches.
The use of different materials for the top and bottom housings in switches allows for a split in the qualities each housing material brings to the overall typing experience. The bottom housing material has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing material affects the sound produced when releasing the key. This distinction highlights the importance of considering both top and bottom housing materials when selecting switches for a desired typing experience. Whether it be the deeper and fuller sound of nylon in the Lotus or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate in the Speed Silver, understanding the role of housing materials is crucial in determining the overall sound profile of a switch.
Weight
The actuation force of the HMX Lotus linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch is the same at 45 grams, providing a light touch for quick and smooth keystrokes. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Lotus requires 50 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Speed Silver, which needs 55 grams to bottom out. The Lotus switch offers a lighter typing experience overall, making it suitable for long typing sessions or extended gaming. On the other hand, the Speed Silver switch provides a bit more resistance, offering a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. Both switches offer a similar actuation force, guaranteeing consistent results for users regardless of the choice between a light or medium-light keyboard switch.
Travel distance
The HMX Lotus 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 Lotus slightly longer in travel distance compared to the Speed Silver. Both switches fall within the category of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for their faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may still be noticeable to some users. Those who prefer a more abrupt feel may lean towards the Speed Silver, while those who prefer a slightly deeper keystroke may opt for the Lotus. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance that caters to a more responsive typing or gaming experience.
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 Lotus comes in at $3.49 per 10 switches.
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 Lotus linear switch is best known for its bright and resonant sound, providing a super bouncy feeling with each keystroke. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, suitable for most intents and purposes. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that can contribute to the overall typing experience, but the Lotus may offer a more vibrant and lively sound compared to the Speed Silver.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Lotus linear switch is known for providing a medium weight of 50g bottom out, offering a tactile and satisfying typing experience. The TTC Speed Silver linear switch, on the other hand, is described as having a mild and polished feel, providing a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. While the Lotus may offer a more tactile and bouncy feel, the Speed Silver provides a comfortable and approachable typing experience with its mild characteristics.
Overall, the HMX Lotus linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch each offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Lotus excels in providing a bright and resonant sound with a medium weight bottom out, while the Speed Silver offers a neutral sound profile with a light-medium level of resistance and a polished feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing experience, both switches can provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience for newcomers to the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Lotus linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, consider the specific qualities that each switch offers. If you are looking for a super bouncy feeling with a bright, resonant sound and a light 50g bottom out force, then the Lotus switch from HMX may be the perfect choice for you. On the right side of the spectrum, if you prioritize a fast and precise typing experience with a light-medium resistance and reduced travel distance for quick and effortless actuation, then the Speed Silver switch may suit your needs better. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. Consider what qualities are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch before making your selection.
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