KTT Glimp vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Glimp and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) offer distinct experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The Glimp switch is revered for its medium-light actuation force, striking an ideal balance that delivers a satisfying yet responsive typing experience. With its tactile feedback and enjoyable clacky sound profile, it appeals to those who appreciate a typing experience that feels both substantial and lively. On the flip side, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) caters to users who prefer a more robust feel. Its unique PA12 top housing creates a softer acoustics profile, while its POM stem generates a crisp resonance, all contributing to a typing experience that combines subtlety with precision. Choosing between these two switches ultimately depends on whether you gravitate towards a lively, clacky soundscape with the Glimp or a sophisticated, precise response from the Xinhai (Heavy). 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
55g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Glimp and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches exhibit distinct characteristics in their top housing materials, which significantly influence their sound profiles. The Glimp utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, a material known for its stiffness, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) is equipped with a nylon top housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This fundamental difference in materiality alters the auditory experience when using these switches; where the Glimp excels in bright and clear sounds ideal for RGB illumination, the Xinhai offers a warmer and muted sound that may appeal to users preferring a more subdued auditory feedback.
When we examine the bottom housing of both switches, an interesting similarity emerges. Both the Glimp and the Xinhai utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This shared material leads to a deep and rich sound profile in both switches, as nylon's soft nature absorbs sound vibrations effectively. Consequently, the impact on the sound and feel during the bottom-out phase remains consistent between the two models. This convergence means that regardless of the top housing material, users will experience a similar tactile sensation and auditory richness during key presses, highlighting the significance of the bottom housing in shaping the overall typing experience.
Overall, while the KTT Glimp and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) differ in their top housing materials, they create complementary auditory characteristics through their shared nylon bottom housings. The polycarbonate top of the Glimp enhances its RGB compatibility while delivering a bright sound, making it distinct for a more lively typing experience, whereas the nylon top of the Xinhai encourages a warmer, rounded response. Despite these differences, both switches share the potential for a satisfying typing feel, thanks to the nylon bottom, which harmonizes the overall performance of each switch. Thus, while users may prefer one over the other based on the sound profile they favor, the nylon component ensures a degree of consistency in typing feedback.
Weight
The KTT Glimp linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch present a distinct contrast in actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences among typists and gamers. The Glimp features a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions as it requires less effort to press the keys. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, providing a more substantial feel that some users may prefer for a tactile typing experience. This difference in forces indicates that while the Glimp is the lighter option overall, the Xinhai switch appeals to those who favor a more robust keystroke. Although both switches have different values for actuation and bottom out forces, they each cater to particular user preferences, facilitating a choice between lighter and heavier typing experiences.
Travel distance
The KTT Glimp linear switch boasts a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This difference highlights a key contrast in their design philosophies: the Glimp offers a more traditional travel distance, which some users may find provides a more satisfying depth during keystrokes. Conversely, the Xinhai's shorter travel distance caters to those who prefer quicker response times, often favored by gamers seeking a more rapid actuation. Therefore, if you prioritize speed and responsiveness, the Xinhai (Heavy) may be the better choice due to its shorter travel distance. Conversely, if you lean towards a fuller typing experience, the KTT Glimp would be the preferable option, offering a more substantial feel. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences, with the Glimp being longer and the Xinhai (Heavy) being shorter.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Glimp has an MSRP of $3.84 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glimp for $3.45.
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 considering the sound profiles, the KTT Glimp switch stands out with its fairly clacky auditory feedback, producing a sharp and snappy sound that can enhance your typing experience. This crisp, bright, and percussive tone can be quite satisfying for users who enjoy a lively acoustic environment while typing. Its neutral aspect allows it to be versatile enough for various settings, whether at home or in a shared workspace. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch features a unique PA12 top housing designed for softer acoustics, paired with a POM stem that contributes to a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance. While the Xinhai is aimed at creating a more subtle sound profile, it is worth noting that the overall sound experience of any switch can also be influenced by the specific keyboard and keycap materials used.
In terms of feel, the KTT Glimp switch delivers a satisfying typing experience characterized by a creamy texture, allowing fingers to glide smoothly across the keys. This buttery sensation, often attributed to factory lubrication or specific materials, can make each keystroke feel seamless and enjoyable. The mild nature of the Glimp ensures that its characteristics do not overwhelm the user, making it approachable for both beginners and seasoned typists. The subjective qualities of the Xinhai (Heavy) in terms of feel are currently unknown, making it difficult to draw direct comparisons; however, its heavier actuation may suggest a different typing experience that could cater to users preferring a more substantial resistance.
In summary, the KTT Glimp switch offers a satisfying auditory and tactile experience with its clacky sound and creamy feel, making it a well-balanced choice for various typing environments. The unique sound properties of the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) should appeal to those looking for a more refined acoustic experience, though its physical feel remains unclear. Aligning these qualities, prospective users can expect similar typing satisfaction from the Glimp's proven attributes while the Xinhai may offer a different, yet undoubtedly intriguing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the KTT Glimp linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch should be guided by your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a switch that delivers a medium-light actuation and a clacky sound profile, the Glimp is an excellent choice, especially if you enjoy a more substantial typing experience without overwhelming resistance. Its creamy feel provides a smooth and enjoyable typing sensation, making it suitable for long working sessions or casual gaming. On the other hand, if you find comfort in higher resistance and a more pronounced acoustic profile, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch may suit your needs better. With its heavier bottom-out force, this switch delivers a precise performance combined with a refined sound profile, making it ideal for typists who favor a firmer typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should reflect the typing style and auditory feedback you appreciate most, allowing you to find the best fit for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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