TTC Flame Red vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switches, both the TTC Flame Red and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) offer unique attributes that cater to different preferences among typists and gamers alike. The Flame Red is particularly celebrated not only for its eye-catching light diffuser, making it an excellent choice for RGB enthusiasts, but also for the smooth, weighty typing experience coupled with a clacky sound profile. Its classification as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished' underscores its versatility, appealing to those who appreciate a balanced feel. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) elevates the game with its heavier actuation force, reinforced by a specialized PA12 top housing that enhances its softer acoustic profile. The POM stem contributes a crisp, resonant feedback, combining subtlety with precision for those who favor a more tactile response. Ultimately, both switches provide distinctive strengths: the Flame Red dazzles with aesthetics and a pleasant auditory experience, while the Xinhai (Heavy) delivers refined performance characteristics that cater to detail-oriented users. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The TTC Flame Red and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) both utilize nylon as their housing material for both the top and bottom elements of the switches. This commonality indicates that they share similar acoustic properties, which is crucial for those seeking a consistent typing experience. With nylon being a softer plastic, both switches are designed to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile when typed on. The sound absorption qualities of nylon contribute to a duller and rounder auditory signature, which can be especially appealing to users looking for a more muted and acoustically pleasant sound during prolonged typing sessions.
In further examining the housing characteristics, both the Flame Red and Xinhai (Heavy) exhibit a uniformity in their setups, suggesting that users will experience comparable performance in terms of sound dampening and tactile feedback. Both switches leverage the inherent properties of nylon, resulting in typing experiences that minimize noise reflection and create a softer feel under the fingers. As a result, both the top and bottom housings of these switches are likely to yield similar auditory outcomes. The shared nylon material means that typists can expect a consistent sound profile, which could be a significant consideration for users who prioritize acoustics in their keyboard experience.
However, an essential factor to consider is how the switching dynamics might produce varying results based on the interplay between the top and bottom housings, particularly in context to the tactile feel and sound upon bottom-out. While both switches share the same material and hence the potential for similar acoustics, the unique designs or constructions of their respective switches could lead to subtle differences in overall performance. If either the Flame Red or Xinhai (Heavy) has different internal mechanisms or stem configurations, those variations could impact the typing feedback and sound produced when releasing a key. Despite the homogeneous housing materials, it’s critical to take into account the intricacies of each switch to fully understand and appreciate their performances in practical application.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Flame Red features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a softer touch during extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) requires a heftier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, appealing to those who enjoy a more robust typing experience with a stronger push feel. Thus, the TTC Flame Red is the lighter switch, while the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) is the heavier option. As such, users may choose the Flame Red for comfort and endurance or the Xinhai for a more substantial key press.
Travel distance
The TTC Flame Red linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option compared to the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The difference in travel distances suggests different tactile experiences: the Flame Red will offer a more substantial bottom-out feel that some users may prefer for its hearty depth, while the Xinhai’s shorter distance could appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times and a snappier feel. This contrast highlights the balance between responsiveness and comfort; choosing the Flame Red can result in a more deliberate typing experience, whereas the Xinhai may cater to those who prefer lighter presses. Thus, your choice between these two switches will ultimately depend on your personal preference for travel distance and the tactile feedback you desire.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flame Red has an MSRP of $7.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flame Red for $4.38.
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 it comes to sound, the TTC Flame Red linear switch produces a neutral sound profile. This characteristic makes the Flame Reds versatile and suitable for a variety of environments, be it at home or in the office. Their moderate sound level means they won't disrupt your surroundings, striking a balance that works well for most users. The HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch, while its specific acoustic qualities aren't provided, is noted for its unique PA12 top housing, which is designed to create a softer acoustics profile. This indicates that it may produce a somewhat subtler sound compared to the Flame Reds, potentially appealing to those who prefer quieter switches. However, the actual perception will ultimately depend on the keyboard build and keycap choice in both cases.
In terms of feel, the TTC Flame Red showcases a mild typing experience that is approachable for most users. Its smooth and polished nature speaks to a refined finish, achieved either through high-quality materials or effective factory lubing. This results in thoughtful key travel that reduces friction, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, information regarding the feel of the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) is not explicitly detailed, making it difficult to draw direct comparisons in that area. Nonetheless, the Xinhai name traditionally carries connotations of quality, so users might expect a pleasant tactile response, although specifics remain unknown.
In conclusion, both the TTC Flame Red and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches cater to different user preferences, especially in sound and feel. The Flame Red excels in providing a neutral sound profile and a polished, mild feel, making them an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable and visually appealing switch that works in various settings. The Xinhai (Heavy) offers a unique build aimed at softer acoustics, but due to the lack of detailed feel characteristics, it's uncertain how it would stack up against the Flame Reds. If you prioritize sound neutrality and a smooth typing experience, you'll likely find the Flame Red to be a great fit; however, without more information on the Xinhai, it's difficult to recommend it as confidently.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, consider your specific typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you favor a smoother feel with a lighter actuation force, ideal for prolonged typing sessions or gaming, the Flame Red should be your go-to. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 54 grams combined with its polished characteristics offers a gentle typing experience that is approachable for newcomers. Moreover, if you’re looking to enhance your RGB keyboard's aesthetics, the Flame Red’s dazzling light diffuser makes it an appealing choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more pronounced tactile sensation and a slightly heavier key press, the Xinhai (Heavy) with its 62.5 grams of resistance will provide that extra weight you might enjoy during demanding tasks or gaming scenarios. Its unique construction promotes a softer acoustics profile with a clear, crisp sound, making it suitable for those who appreciate refined auditory feedback as well as tactile satisfaction. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on how you balance feel, sound, and visual appeal in your keyboard experience; the right switch for you will significantly enhance your typing enjoyment and overall productivity.
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