TTC Brother vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Brother and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) represent two distinct approaches that cater to different preferences and typing experiences. The TTC Brother, a clicky switch, stands out for its lightweight actuation of just 37g, making it incredibly easy to press while providing a satisfying tactile bump and a distinctly crunchy sound. This makes it an excellent choice for those who enjoy audible feedback and a lively typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) offers a linear switch experience, prized for its smooth keystrokes and more subdued acoustics. With its heavier actuation and POM stem that delivers a crisp, higher-pitched resonance, it appeals to users seeking a refined touch and quiet operation, ideal for both gaming and long typing sessions. Each switch has its unique advantages; whether you prefer the engaging clicks of the Brother or the smooth glide of the Xinhai, your choice will ultimately shape your typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.20 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
17.5mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Brother and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), notable differences in the choice of plastics emerge, which significantly influence their sound profiles. The TTC Brother employs a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is largely due to the material’s stiffness, which contributes to a clearer resonance. The translucency of the polycarbonate also offers aesthetic advantages, particularly for users who value RGB lighting, as it enhances the lighting effects. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) utilizes a nylon top housing that is softer than polycarbonate, resulting in a deeper, fuller sound profile. The nylon's ability to absorb sound diminishes the clarity of the high frequencies, leading to a duller but rounder auditory experience.
Both switches share nylon as the material for their bottom housings; hence, the sound characteristics related to this aspect remain consistent across both models. The nylon bottom housing for both the TTC Brother and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) excels at producing a deeper and fuller sound due to its sound-absorbing properties, creating a more muted and rounded bottom-out sound and feel. This shared material results in a level of auditory similarity when pressing down on the switches, as both exhibit the thicker, softer qualities associated with nylon, which dampens the acoustics and impacts the overall sound experience when the key bottoms out.
Ultimately, the varying materials between the top and bottom housings of the switches create distinct auditory experiences during operation. The Brother's polycarbonate top provides a bright, vibrant pop when releasing the key, while the nylon bottom maintains a rich fullness during key presses. Conversely, the Xinhai (Heavy)'s nylon top yields a warmer sound profile that contrasts with its nylon bottom, but still allows for an overall melding of the softer sounds typical of nylon constructions. In either case, users can expect a balance of sound qualities that are influenced by each material, with the potential for a satisfying tactile feedback experience dictated by the combination of both top and bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Brother clicky switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, we see notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces that cater to varying typing preferences. The Brother switch features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, making it ideal for those who type for extended periods or engage in lengthy gaming sessions. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) operates with a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. The bottom out force for the Brother remains unknown, while the Xinhai switch has a measurable bottom out force of 62.5 grams, indicating that it requires more effort to fully depress than what is required by the TTC Brother switch. In summary, the Brother switch is the lighter option, providing a potentially more comfortable typing experience for prolonged use, while the Xinhai offers a heavier, more tactile experience suited for those who enjoy a firmer key press.
Travel distance
The TTC Brother clicky switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This difference in travel distance means that the Brother switch allows for a more pronounced keypress, which some users may find satisfying, especially for those who prefer a deeper, more tactile feedback from their keys. On the other hand, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch, with its shorter 3.4 mm travel, may be better suited for gamers or those looking for quicker response times without the feeling of a deep keypress. Overall, while the difference is minimal, the Brother provides a longer travel distance, making it the choice for those who favor a more substantial keystroke, whereas the Xinhai caters to those who prioritize speed and responsiveness in their typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Brother has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Brother for $3.30.
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 Brother clicky switch delivers an undeniably satisfying auditory experience, characterized by its crunchy sound signature that resonates with nostalgic charm. This distinct sound is reminiscent of crunching autumn leaves underfoot, providing a delightful auditory feedback that enhances the overall typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch's sound profile remains unspecified in the provided details; however, it is important to note that the sound produced by a switch is influenced by several factors, including the choice of keyboard housing and keycaps. Thus, while the Brother's clarity and crispness are evident, the Xinhai's acoustic performance may vary depending on its configuration and setup.
In terms of feel, the TTC Brother switch is designed for an easy-to-press experience, requiring only 37g of actuation force. This light resistance combined with its stepped tactile feedback allows users to enjoy both a gentle push and a noticeable tactile bump, making long typing sessions comfortable and reducing finger fatigue. The feedback is distinct but not overly aggressive, striking a perfect balance for typists who appreciate a tactile touch without overwhelming their fingers. Conversely, details about the feel of the Xinhai (Heavy) switch are currently unknown, limiting our ability to make a direct comparison. It remains to be seen how the feel of this switch will measure against the Brother's light resistance and tactile characteristics.
In conclusion, the TTC Brother clicky switch shines with its crunchy sound and comfortable, responsive feel, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy clicky switches. Its lightweight nature and notable tactile feedback offer an engaging typing experience. The HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch, while lacking specific sound and feel descriptors, presents an air of sophistication with its construction materials. Overall, for those drawn to clicky switches with satisfying auditory feedback and comfortable key action, the Brother stands out distinctly, while the Xinhai awaits further exploration to reveal its qualities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, your choice between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and the type of experience you're seeking. If you enjoy a lighter touch and a tactile typing experience complemented by a satisfying auditory feedback, the Brother switch would be an excellent fit. With its breezy actuation force and crunchy sound profile, it’s tailored for those who spend extended hours typing and require a switch that minimizes finger fatigue while keeping the excitement of each keystroke alive. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial keystroke that provides a solid and deliberate feel, the Xinhai (Heavy) is your go-to choice. Its heavier bottom-out force gives you that satisfying resistance and a more pronounced feel, making it ideal for users who appreciate a deeper engagement with each key press, perhaps in gaming scenarios or fast-paced typing tasks. Ultimately, your selection will depend on whether you prioritize a lighter, fun typing experience or a more robust, controlled keystroke that delivers precision in every hit.
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