TTC Bluish White vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the TTC Bluish White and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, personal preference plays a critical role in achieving optimal typing comfort and satisfaction. The TTC Bluish White switch stands out as a tactile choice with a poppy, snappy sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience. This switch is ideal for users who enjoy a more pronounced feedback with every keystroke, offering a buttery and polished touch that caters to both typing and gaming. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch presents a linear alternative, characterized by its heavier actuation and distinctive and crisp higher-pitched resonance, thanks to its unique PA12 top housing and POM stem. This switch is perfect for those who prefer a smooth, uninterrupted keypress for a quieter, more refined typing experience. Each switch has its own merits: the Bluish White offers tactile feedback that can be particularly satisfying for typists, while the Xinhai (Heavy) suits gamers and productivity-focused users looking for subtle sophistication. 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
42g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Bluish White and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), it becomes clear that the two switches utilize different plastics for their top housings, which significantly affects their sound profiles. The TTC Bluish White features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its rigidity and translucence. This particular material contributes to a sharper and crisper sound, which is particularly favorable for users who appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback when typing. The clear nature of polycarbonate also enhances the visual effects of RGB lighting, a feature increasingly sought after by keyboard enthusiasts. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) employs a nylon top housing, recognized for its softer composition that yields a deeper and fuller sound profile. This fundamental difference in material directly influences the overall typing experience, as the Xinhai results in a rounder and more subdued auditory signature.
Despite the disparity in the top housing materials, both switches share nylon for their bottom housings, which establishes a common ground in their sound profiles. The nylon used in both switches contributes to a deeper sound profile as it absorbs more sound than the harder polycarbonate, thus mitigating sharpness. This shared characteristic means that while the sound experienced during the release of a key on the Bluish White might be crisper due to its polycarbonate top, the bottoming out sound and feel will be similar, as both switches derive that fuller sound profile from their nylon materials. Essentially, the Bluish White's combination of a rigid polycarbonate top and a soft nylon bottom creates a hybrid sound experience that contrasts with the HMX's entirely soft nylon composition, resulting in less differentiation between the bottoming and releasing sounds.
Ultimately, the differentiation in sound profiles between the TTC Bluish White and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) is a direct result of their construction. The interplay of a hard polycarbonate top housing and a soft nylon bottom in the Bluish White leads to a unique sound signature that combines clarity and depth, while the uniform use of nylon in the Xinhai delivers a consistent, muted result across the board. Users may prefer one over the other depending on whether they desire a more reactive, bright sound or a deeper, rounder auditory feedback. Understanding these materials and their effects on sound can help potential buyers choose the switch that best fits their typing style and auditory preferences.
Weight
The TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, impacting their suitability for various typing preferences. The Bluish White switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more comfortable for extended typing sessions and ideal for users who appreciate a softer touch. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai switch features a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, providing a more substantial and tactile experience that some users prefer for its solid feel. As a result, individuals seeking a lightweight option for prolonged use may gravitate towards the Bluish White, while those desiring a firmer keypress should consider the HMX Xinhai. Overall, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces signify that each switch caters to distinct typing styles and user needs.
Travel distance
The travel distances of the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch differ slightly, with the Bluish White measuring 3.5 mm and the Xinhai (Heavy) at 3.4 mm. This means that the Bluish White offers a marginally longer travel distance compared to the Xinhai (Heavy), which can be significant depending on user preference. With a travel distance closer to the traditional 4.0 mm, the Bluish White may provide a fuller typing experience, suitable for those who favor a deeper keystroke. Conversely, the shorter 3.4 mm travel of the Xinhai (Heavy) is more aligned with contemporary trends toward quicker response times, appealing particularly to gamers or those who prioritize speed and rapid actuation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for tactile feedback and response speed; selecting the shorter Xinhai (Heavy) could yield a more immediate reaction, while the Bluish White might be favored for its depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Bluish White has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bluish White for $4.63.
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 $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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch offers a distinctively snappy and low-pitched auditory profile. This means that users can expect a bass-heavy, mellow tone that can be quite satisfying and encourages active typing. The sound signature is designed to be engaging, making it ideal for those who appreciate an audible feedback while they type. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch is crafted with a unique PA12 top housing that is designed to provide softer acoustics. The POM stem contributes to a crisper, higher-pitched resonance. While the Bluish White excels in a more pronounced auditory experience, the Xinhai (Heavy) leans toward a subtler, sophisticated sound. Thus, while both switch types cater to different auditory preferences, they can still produce enjoyable typing experiences depending on the user’s environment and choice of board and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the TTC Bluish White switches shine with a variety of tactile sensations. They offer a buttery, smooth keystroke that is complemented by mild and subtle characteristics, producing a refined typing experience overall. The stepped tactile feedback ensures that users experience a clear, yet gentle resistance during typing, providing a pleasant blend of engagement and comfort. The polished finish further enhances this experience, resulting in a smooth key travel. On the other hand, specific feel descriptors for the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) are not provided, which leaves a gap in understanding how it compares in terms of tactile sensation. However, heavier switches typically provide a more substantial keystroke feel, appealing to those who prefer added resistance as they type.
Overall, both the TTC Bluish White and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches cater to different preferences, particularly in sound and tactile feedback. The Bluish White is best suited for those who enjoy a snappy, low-pitched sound with a versatile tactile feel, while the Xinhai (Heavy) appeals to users who prefer softer acoustics with a potentially crisper auditory profile. The nuances in typing experiences between these switches highlight their unique designs, allowing newcomers to make informed decisions based on their sensory preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a lighter touch with a satisfying tactile feedback, the Bluish White is an excellent option, providing a snappy and poppy sounds that enhances the typing experience. Its low-pitched sound profile, coupled with its buttery and polished feel, makes it suitable for both casual typists and those who spend long hours at the keyboard, especially in shared spaces where a calmer atmosphere is preferred. On the other hand, if you lean towards a sturdier typing experience with a heavier actuation force, the Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch is designed for you. Its medium bottom out force of 62.5 grams provides a more substantial and precise feedback, while the POM stem ensures a crisp sound profile that adds subtle sophistication to your keystrokes. Therefore, your choice should reflect not only your desired tactile feedback and auditory preference but also the overall typing experience you value in your mechanical keyboard journey.
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