KTT F2 vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the KTT F2 and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT F2 and HMX Xinhai linear switches offer distinct features to cater to different preferences. The KTT F2 is praised for its unique hollow sound signature and medium-light weightiness, providing a comfortable typing experience with a lightly textured feel. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai stands out for its PA12 top housing and POM stem, offering a softer acoustics profile with a crisp, higher-pitched resonance. While the F2 is characterized as feathery, mild, neutral, subdued, and subtle, the Xinhai is described as bouncy, clacky, and creamy. Depending on your preference for sound, weightiness, and tactile feedback, each switch has its own strengths to consider. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT F2 and the HMX Xinhai are both made of polycarbonate, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting, as it allows for the passage of light to create a visually appealing effect. Despite both switches using polycarbonate for their top housings, they may differ in their bottom housings, as seen in the F2 having a polycarbonate bottom housing while the Xinhai uses nylon for its bottom housing.
The nylon bottom housing of the HMX Xinhai offers a different sound profile compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the KTT F2. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound when typing on switches, as its relatively softer nature absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound that may appeal to individuals looking for a more muted typing experience. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the F2 lends itself to a clearer and more resonant sound profile, emphasizing the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed down.
While both the KTT F2 and the HMX Xinhai utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, their differences in bottom housing materials may lead to unique typing experiences. The qualities of each housing material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch, with the bottom housing having a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches benefit from the inherent qualities of polycarbonate, such as its stiffness and translucency, which contribute to a sharper and more visually appealing sound profile.
Weight
The KTT F2 linear switch has a higher actuation force of 43 grams compared to the HMX Xinhai linear switch, which has an actuation force of 37 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the F2 requires 53 grams, while the Xinhai only needs 45 grams. This means that the F2 is heavier both in actuation and bottom out force compared to the Xinhai, making it more suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Xinhai is lighter in both aspects, making it a more suitable choice for users who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming. Regardless of the differences in force, both switches offer a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The KTT F2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the F2 has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Xinhai switch. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances preferred by gamers for faster response times. However, the difference of 0.1 mm between the two may not be significant enough to make a noticeable impact on performance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for the travel distance that feels most comfortable for individual typing or gaming needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Xinhai 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 for $2.99.
The KTT F2 comes in at $3.90 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 KTT F2 linear switch presents a unique hollow sound signature, providing a distinctive auditory experience that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch offers a crisper, higher-pitched resonance due to its PA12 top housing and POM stem combination. While the F2 offers a more neutral and subdued sound characteristic, the Xinhai is described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the KTT F2 linear switch is praised for its lightly textured feel, adding a tactile nuance to every keystroke. It is described as feathery, mild, and subtle, offering a comfortable typing experience with its medium-light weightiness. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai linear switch provides a bouncy sensation with spring-like feedback, giving the keys a lively feel and rebound when pressed. Additionally, the Xinhai switch is noted for its creamy typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation when typing.
In conclusion, while both the KTT F2 and HMX Xinhai linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, they cater to different preferences and typing styles. The F2 stands out with its distinct hollow sound signature and lightly textured feel, providing a comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the Xinhai excels with its crisper, higher-pitched resonance and bouncy, creamy typing sensation. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer a variety of options to enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, experimenting with both switches will allow you to determine which one best suits your personal preferences and typing needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT F2 linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a lightly textured feel with a distinct hollow sound, then the F2 switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and appreciate a softer acoustics profile with a higher-pitched resonance, then the Xinhai switch might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so it's important to consider your own preferences before making a decision.
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