KTT Ash Gray vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can significantly enhance your typing experience, and two popular options that cater to distinct preferences are the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch. The Ash Gray is heralded for its substantial yet unobtrusive tactile feedback, designed to provide a satisfying actuation without overwhelming sensitivity. This switch's neutral and mild characteristics make it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a light touch combined with a crisp keystroke, perfect for both typing and gaming without excessive fatigue. On the other hand, the Xinhai (Heavy) offers a different experience with its heavier actuation force, paired with a unique PA12 top housing that contributes to a softer acoustic profile and a POM stem that delivers a distinct higher-pitched resonance. This switch is ideal for users who seek a more solid feel under their fingers, favoring precision and pronounced key presses. Both switches come with their unique advantages—whether you're looking for tactile feedback or a more subdued typing experience, your choice can be pivotal. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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
18mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Ash Gray and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) exhibit notable differences that significantly affect their acoustic profiles and overall typing experiences. The KTT Ash Gray features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its strength and stiffness. This trait imparts a sharper and more resonant sound when typing, resulting in a bright, crisp tonal quality. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) utilizes a nylon top housing, a material recognized for its softer texture, which absorbs sound more effectively. Consequently, this leads to a deeper, fuller sound profile, giving a more dampened and rounded auditory experience.
Interestingly, while the Ash Gray employs polycarbonate for its top housing, both switches use nylon for their bottom housings. In this regard, the KTT Ash Gray shares a characteristic with the HMX Xinhai (Heavy). The use of nylon in both bottom housings contributes to a similar foundation for sound production, as nylon tends to create a muted and plush typing sensation, enhancing the overall depth of sound when keys are bottomed out. This results in a unified experience in terms of sound quality despite the differing materials of the top housings.
The divergence in top housing materials means that the acoustic characteristics of these switches are influenced by their unique designs. Pressing down on the switches predominantly reveals the sound profiles of the bottom housing, where both switches will deliver that satisfying, fuller sound owing to the nylon. However, when releasing the key, the polycarbonate of the Ash Gray shines with a sharper sound contrast compared to the muted tones of the nylon-softened Xinhai (Heavy). This interplay between materials allows for a more complex sound signature and user experience in the KTT Ash Gray, whereas the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) provides a consistent yet mellow typing audio experience. Ultimately, while both can yield enjoyable outcomes, the distinctions in their top housing materials cater to different preferences in tactile feedback and sound signature.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, notable differences emerge in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Ash Gray switch features an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as medium-light, making it an excellent choice for users who prefer a lighter typing experience, thus facilitating longer typing sessions with reduced fatigue. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch, with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, has a noticeably heavier feel. This increased resistance may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial tactile feedback while typing or gaming, providing a sense of control and stability. Consequently, if users prefer a lighter touch, they would opt for the Ash Gray switch, while those seeking a heavier actuation might gravitate towards the Xinhai switch for its more robust feel. Overall, the KTT Ash Gray is the lighter option, while the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) is distinctly heavier.
Travel distance
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch exhibit a slight difference in travel distance, with the Ash Gray measuring 3.5 mm and the Xinhai (Heavy) at 3.4 mm. Consequently, the Ash Gray offers a longer travel distance, which may provide a more pronounced tactile feedback for users who enjoy a deeper pressing experience. In contrast, the shorter travel distance of the Xinhai (Heavy) could cater to those who prioritize quicker response times, which is particularly beneficial for gamers. Ultimately, the choice between these switches hinges on personal preference; if you favor a more tactile experience, the KTT Ash Gray might suit you better, while the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) could appeal to those who prefer a more responsive feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Ash Gray has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ash Gray for $2.55.
The HMX Xinhai (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai (Heavy) for $3.19.
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 KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, the Ash Gray is characterized as producing a neutral sound. This means that its actuation force requirement and sound signature strike a balance, making it versatile for various environments, whether for work or at home. While the specifics of the Xinhai (Heavy) switch's sound are not fully defined, it is noted to have a softer acoustics profile due to its unique PA12 top housing, which may contribute to a quieter typing experience. However, the interaction of sound produced will also heavily depend on accompanying factors like the keyboard’s construction and the choice of keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Ash Gray switch stands out for its easy-to-press nature, which provides a gentle resistance that minimizes strain during prolonged typing sessions. This ease of actuation complements its mild tactile feedback, ensuring that users enjoy a pleasant typing experience that isn’t overly pronounced. The Xinhai (Heavy) switch lacks specific descriptors that illuminate its tactile sensation, but given its classification as a heavier variant of the classic switch, one might expect it to demand more force than the Ash Gray. This could result in a more substantial typing experience that some users may prefer, especially if they enjoy a firmer key feel.
Considering the overall qualities of both switches, the KTT Ash Gray offers a tightly knit combination of neutral sound and easy, mild tactile feedback, making it an excellent choice for users seeking comfort and versatility in their typing experience. The HMX Xinhai (Heavy), while not fully detailed in tactile characteristics, hints at a more robust feel thanks to its heavier design and might provide a different experience that aligns more with users who appreciate a firmer switch. Both options cater to distinct preferences, so choosing between them will depend on whether one prioritizes a lighter, more approachable switch or a heftier feel during key presses.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, consider your typing habits and preferences for feedback and force. If you favor a switch that provides a pleasant tactile response without overwhelming your fingers, the Ash Gray is an excellent choice. Its medium-light actuation force of 53 grams makes it particularly suited for prolonged typing sessions, allowing you to type effortlessly with minimal finger fatigue while enjoying a neutral sound profile suitable for various environments. On the other hand, if you prefer something with more resistance and a heavy feel, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch may be more to your liking. With a bottom-out force of 62.5 grams and its unique PA12 top housing, this switch offers a refined acoustic profile and a crisply responsive experience that many typists appreciate. In essence, choose the Ash Gray for comfort and subtle tactile feedback, and the Xinhai (Heavy) for a firmer, more distinctive typing experience. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you prioritize light action and responsiveness or a heavier, more deliberate keypress.
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