TTC Gold Brown vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, choosing the right one can greatly influence both your typing experience and overall satisfaction. The TTC Gold Brown switches are lauded for their balanced performance, offering a tactile bump that provides a satisfying feedback without being too overwhelming. This moderate weightiness and rounded yet soft sound profile make them an excellent choice for typists who appreciate a tactile sensation but prefer a quieter workspace. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch caters to those who seek a linear feel; its unique PA12 top housing contributes to a softer acoustic profile, while the POM stem delivers a crisp, higher-pitched resonance. This blend of sophistication and performance may appeal to gamers and typists who favor smooth keypresses without interruptions. Ultimately, while the Gold Brown switches emphasize tactile feedback for a more engaging typing experience, the Xinhai (Heavy) offers a refined linear action ideal for fast-paced typing. 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
55g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Brown switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch both utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which contributes significantly to their sound profiles. This shared characteristic leads to a deeper and fuller auditory experience due to nylon's ability to absorb sound effectively. Users can expect a similar tactile feedback and acoustic result from the bottom of the switches, making both options appealing for those seeking a rich sound during typing. However, the Gold Brown diverges with its top housing made from polycarbonate, which introduces a contrasting sharpness and clarity that nylon alone cannot provide. This unique combination creates a sound experience that is both resonant and well-rounded when using the Gold Brown, while the Xinhai (Heavy)'s nylon top housing produces a more muted and subdued acoustic output.
The distinction in top housing materials is significant when it comes to the overall auditory experience of these switches. The polycarbonate of the Gold Brown provides a crisper sound profile, which is enhanced when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency. This gives a visually appealing effect that compliments the auditory experience by providing a clear and high-pitched sound when keys are released. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Xinhai (Heavy) contributes to a rounder sound signature, emphasizing depth over sharpness. Consequently, users of the Xinhai (Heavy) might appreciate a more subdued feedback when typing, which might be ideal for those who prefer a quieter workspace.
Ultimately, the synergistic relationship between the materials used in each switch determines the overall feel and sound they produce. While both switches share the same nylon composition for their bottom housings, the differences in their top housings create unique auditory experiences. If users are looking for a well-rounded sound with deeper resonance, both the TTC Gold Brown and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) accomplish that in their respective ways. The Gold Brown achieves this with clarity and sharpness thanks to its polycarbonate top, whereas the Xinhai (Heavy) offers rich depth with a uniform sound profile. These variations illustrate how the choice of materials can distinctly influence the performance and sensory feedback of mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, we see that both switches exhibit a similar actuation force of 55 grams, indicating that they require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. However, there is a subtle difference in their bottom out forces; the Gold Brown reaches a bottom out force of 63 grams, while the Xinhai (Heavy) has a slightly lower bottom out force of 62.5 grams. This means that while both switches provide a comparable typing experience in terms of actuation, the Gold Brown offers a marginally firmer feel upon bottoming out. In terms of weight preference, the Xinhai (Heavy) is technically lighter overall when considering both actuation and bottom out as a combination, and this can appeal to users seeking less strain during prolonged typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who appreciate a stronger feel might gravitate towards the Gold Brown due to its slightly higher bottom out force, despite their actuation forces being identical.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, it is clear that the Gold Brown has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Xinhai (Heavy) measures at 3.4 mm. This difference highlights the preferences that may arise among users: those who favor a more traditional, pronounced keystroke may find the Gold Brown's 4 mm travel distance more satisfying, as it offers a deeper feel during typing. Conversely, gamers and those seeking quicker response times might appreciate the shorter 3.4 mm travel distance of the Xinhai (Heavy), allowing for a more agile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a more substantial keystroke or a quicker, more responsive option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown for $3.28.
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
In terms of sound, the TTC Gold Brown switch has a rounded and softer sound profile that is described as neutral. This makes it versatile enough for various environments, whether you're at home or in an office setting. It produces a moderate noise level during typing, which is fairly unobtrusive, allowing users to type without drawing too much attention. The Xinhai (Heavy) switch, on the other hand, is crafted to deliver a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance thanks to its POM stem and PA12 top housing. While specific details about the sound level are unknown, the unique materials suggest that it may offer a sharper contrast to the Gold Brown's more muted acoustics.
When it comes to feel, the Gold Brown switch strikes a balance with its mild and buttery typing experience. It offers a gentle, seamless keystroke that most typists will find approachable, along with a tactile bump that is accentuated but not overwhelming. This makes it suitable for both beginner and experienced users alike, as it provides a satisfying yet subtle tactile feedback without sacrificing smoothness. The Xinhai (Heavy), however, does not have specific feel qualities detailed; thus, we cannot directly compare its tactile experience to the Gold Brown.
In conclusion, while the TTC Gold Brown switch brings a balanced, mild, and buttery feel with a neutral sound profile, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) offers a potentially crisper auditory presence, although specific details on its feel and sound remain undisclosed. The differences between these two switches highlight how personal preference plays a crucial role in mechanical keyboard selection. Both switches cater to distinct typing experiences, and your ultimate choice may depend on whether you prioritize a softer sound and feel or a more pronounced acoustic character.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, your choice will ultimately depend on your specific typing style and preferences. If you prefer a balanced typing experience that offers just the right amount of tactile feedback, the Gold Brown switch is an excellent option. Its medium-weight actuation and mild bump make it suitable for both beginners and seasoned typists, whether you're working or gaming. The softer sound profile also ensures a more discreet typing experience, making it an appropriate choice for shared or quiet environments. On the other hand, if you lean towards a heavier linear feel and appreciate a distinct, higher-pitched resonance in your keystrokes, the Xinhai (Heavy) would be the switch for you. Its unique construction not only provides a satisfying typing experience but also gives it a subtle sophistication that can cater to enthusiasts looking for nuanced acoustic properties. In essence, choose Gold Brown for its balanced, tactile feel in diverse settings, and opt for Xinhai (Heavy) if you favor a sturdy linear switch that combines performance with refined sound.
Mentioned in this article
