TTC Gold Pink vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Mechanical keyboard enthusiasts often find themselves faced with the decision between the TTC Gold Pink and the HMX Xinhai switches. The Gold Pink, a linear switch with an actuation force of 37g, is known for its light and effortless typing experience, making it ideal for rapid typists or gamers. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch boasts a unique PA12 top housing and POM stem, offering a softer acoustics profile and distinctively crisp resonance. While the Gold Pink is described as 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Feathery', 'Subtle', and 'Polished', the Xinhai is characterized as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', and 'Creamy'. Both switches offer a satisfying level of feedback, but cater to different preferences in terms of typing experience. 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
37g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
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 Pink and the HMX Xinhai both feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which contributes to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this common material for their top housings, they may still offer unique sound characteristics based on other factors such as design and construction.
In terms of bottom housing material, both the Gold Pink and Xinhai utilize nylon, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This material choice influences the typing experience on these switches, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. Despite sharing the same material for their bottom housings, there may be minor differences in sound and feel due to variations in switch design and construction.
Overall, the housing materials used in the TTC Gold Pink and the HMX Xinhai play a significant role in shaping the sound profile and typing experience of these switches. While they both feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharper sound and nylon bottom housings for a fuller sound, minor distinctions in design and construction may lead to subtle variations in sound and feel between the two switches. Ultimately, the choice between the Gold Pink and Xinhai may come down to personal preference in terms of sound characteristics and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, we can see that both switches have a similar actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of required force for both switches. The lighter weight of these switches makes them ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch, allowing for extended typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, they may find the lighter weight of these switches less satisfying. In this case, opting for switches with heavier actuation and bottom out forces would be more suitable. Overall, the TTC Gold Pink and HMX Xinhai linear switches provide a light and effortless typing experience, making them a great choice for users who prioritize comfort and ease of use.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Xinhai has a shorter travel distance compared to the Gold Pink. A 4.0mm travel distance is more traditional, while a 3.0mm distance is considered shallow. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times, but some may find it too abrupt. Those who prefer a more responsive feel may opt for the Xinhai, while those looking for a more substantial keypress may prefer the Gold Pink. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
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 $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 Pink linear switch is characterized by a clacky sound, which produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, providing a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory experience. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch is crafted with unique materials for a softer acoustics profile and a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance, offering a more subtle and sophisticated sound. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that can be enhanced or modified based on the keyboard and keycap combination used.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch is described as buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished, providing a smooth, effortless, and uniform typing experience with light actuation force that reduces finger strain. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch is characterized as bouncy and creamy, offering a spring-like, elastic feedback sensation with a smooth and buttery typing experience. Both switches provide different tactile feedback options, allowing users to choose based on their desired typing experience and preference.
Overall, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Gold Pink switch delivers a light and lively typing experience with a clacky sound, the Xinhai switch embodies a more subtle and sophisticated sound profile with a bouncy and creamy tactile feedback. Depending on personal preference and typing style, users can choose between the two switches to achieve their desired typing experience, whether it be for rapid typing, gaming, or simply enjoying a smooth and satisfying keystroke. Ultimately, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience that can be tailored to individual needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, consider the specific characteristics that align with your preferences. If you prioritize a light and lively typing experience with a fast actuation force, along with a satisfying clacky sound, the Gold Pink switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch that offers a softer acoustics profile, a crisp and higher-pitched resonance, and a more sophisticated typing feel with a bouncy or creamy sensation, then the Xinhai switch may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style to ensure a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
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