TTC Gold Brown Pro vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)

Overview

When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the decision often hinges on the type of tactile feedback and acoustic experience a user prefers. The TTC Gold Brown Pro, a tactile switch, is ideal for those who appreciate a subtle, nuanced feedback during typing. This switch features a gentle tactile bump that offers a mild reminder of each keystroke without overwhelming the typist, making it an excellent choice for immersing oneself in extended typing sessions. Its low-pitched, thocky sound profile further enhances the experience by maintaining a quiet environment, allowing users to remain focused and undistracted. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch caters to users who value smoother, uninterrupted keystrokes. With its PA12 top housing, this switch delivers softer acoustics, while the POM stem introduces a crisp, higher-pitched resonance, offering a refined auditory experience with each press. The heavier actuation of this switch can also provide a sense of sturdiness and stability, appealing to those who favor deliberate typing. Both switches have their unique strengths, making them suitable for different typing styles and preferences; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch for you.

By the numbers

TTC Gold Brown Pro Tactile

HMX Xinhai (Heavy) Linear

$6.11

$2.90 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), significant differences emerge, particularly in their top housings. The Gold Brown Pro utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which is known for its rigidity and translucency. This material contributes to a sharper, crisper sound profile, making it especially well-suited for RGB lighting applications where visual aesthetics are a priority. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) employs nylon for its top housing, a classic material that is renowned for its ability to absorb sound. The result is a deeper, fuller sound profile, which creates a more muted auditory experience than the polycarbonate top of the Gold Brown Pro. Thus, while both switches might offer high-quality sound, the nature of that sound differs significantly based on the choice of housing material.

The bottom housings of both switches, however, are constructed from nylon, creating a common ground that influences the overall sound experience. Both the Gold Brown Pro and the Xinhai (Heavy) will produce a deeper, fuller sound profile when pressed, thanks to the inherent qualities of nylon as a softer plastic. This shared material allows both switches to exhibit a certain degree of sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that users may find appealing for typing scenarios. Since the bottom housing has a profound impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, both switches will likely provide a similar tactile experience at this point of actuation, emphasizing the rich qualities of nylon.

Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Gold Brown Pro creates a distinct duality in sound, with the material differences affecting how users perceive both the actuation and release of the keys. While the nylon bottom housing ensures a consistent sound profile, it is the polycarbonate top that injects clarity and brightness, particularly when the keys are released. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) offers a more uniform sound signature throughout its operation, with its nylon top absorbing more audio and producing a smoother auditory experience. Therefore, while both switches can deliver quality results, the specific materials used and their properties result in notably different sound profiles and tactile feedback during use.

Weight

When comparing the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, there is a noticeable difference in their actuation forces. The Gold Brown Pro features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it a potentially better choice for users seeking a softer touch for extended typing sessions or long gaming marathons. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, which appeals to those who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback and a more substantial typing experience. As for their bottom out forces, the Gold Brown Pro does not have a specified value, whereas the Xinhai (Heavy) boasts a bottom-out force of 62.5 grams, suggesting that it provides a firmer resistance when keys are fully depressed. Overall, the TTC Gold Brown Pro is the lighter option, making it suitable for users who prioritize comfort, while the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) is heavier, catering to those who enjoy a more robust keystroke feeling.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, a noticeable difference is evident. The Gold Brown Pro boasts a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it the longer option, while the Xinhai (Heavy) features a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This difference means that the Gold Brown Pro will provide a more pronounced keypress feeling, which can be preferable for users who enjoy a more tactile and substantial depth in their typing experience. Conversely, the shorter travel distance of the Xinhai (Heavy) may appeal to gamers or those who prioritize rapid response times, as it allows for quicker actuation. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for depth versus responsiveness in key feel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound profiles of the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), the Gold Brown Pro is characterized by a thocky, low-pitched sound that produces a deep and satisfying tone, akin to a soft knock when the keys are pressed and released. This subdued sound profile creates a tranquil typing environment, allowing the user to focus without distraction. In contrast, details regarding the sound of the Xinhai (Heavy) are not specified, leaving its auditory experience somewhat unknown. However, the acoustics may be influenced by the unique PA12 top housing, which is designed for softer acoustics.

In terms of feel, the TTC Gold Brown Pro offers a polished and silky typing experience, marked by gentle resistance and a mild tactile feedback. The tactile bump is subtle enough not to disrupt flow while still providing that reassuring sense of key actuation. This makes it approachable for both beginners and seasoned typists alike, as it strikes a balance between smoothness and tactile feedback. The Xinhai (Heavy) also lacks specific descriptors for feel, which leaves potential typists without crucial insights into how its performance compares in this aspect.

In conclusion, while the TTC Gold Brown Pro presents a clear and nuanced auditory and tactile experience, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) remains a bit of a mystery with unspecified qualities. Those looking for a refined, low-sound typing environment may lean toward the Gold Brown Pro, while the characteristics of the Xinhai (Heavy) would need further exploration. If you crave a blend of subtle feedback with a smooth touch, the Gold Brown Pro stands out, but without additional insight into the Xinhai’s feel and sound, it's challenging to draw direct comparisons. Ultimately, both switches cater to different typing preferences, and the choice may depend largely on the individual typist's requirements and the environments in which they will be used.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you prioritize a subdued typing experience that allows you to focus deeply on your work without excessive tactile feedback or sound disruption, the Gold Brown Pro is your best bet. Its polished and silky feel, combined with a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, makes it ideal for quiet settings, whether at home or in an office. On the other hand, if you enjoy a firmer typing experience with a more defined actuation, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) is the switch for you. Its medium bottom-out force and enhanced acoustics provide a robust and precise typing feel, perfect for general-purpose use or gaming where you might prefer a more tactile feedback. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your desire for sound, feel, and the environment in which you’ll be using your mechanical keyboard.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Gold Brown Pro Tactile

$6.11

$2.90 per 10

Learn more

HMX Xinhai (Heavy) Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more