TTC Gold Red Pro vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the TTC Gold Red Pro and the HMX Xinhai, both linear switches. The Gold Red Pro is known for its versatility, offering a seamless typing experience with its ease of press and neutral sound signature. It is a great choice for a wide range of users and settings, whether for gaming, office work, or casual typing. On the other hand, the Xinhai stands out for its unique construction, featuring a PA12 top housing for softer acoustics and a POM stem for a distinctive, higher-pitched sound. This switch embodies a blend of sophistication and precision. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
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
18.5mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Red Pro and the HMX Xinhai share similarities in terms of using polycarbonate for the top housing. Both switches benefit from the sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile created by the stiff nature of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal choice for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. However, where they differ is in the bottom housing material. The Gold Red Pro's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the soft nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Xinhai also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a duller and rounder sound.
While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, the Gold Red Pro and the HMX Xinhai offer distinct typing experiences due to their differing bottom housing materials. The nylon bottom housing of the Gold Red Pro contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, enhancing the overall typing feel. On the other hand, the Xinhai's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the Gold Red Pro. This difference in bottom housing material affects how the switches sound and feel when pressed, showcasing the importance of both top and bottom housing in the overall typing experience.
In summary, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches plays a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of typing. While both the TTC Gold Red Pro and the HMX Xinhai utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, their different bottom housing materials result in distinct typing experiences. The Gold Red Pro's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Xinhai's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound for a duller and rounder sound. Understanding the impact of housing materials on switch performance can help users choose the right switch for their specific typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is evident that the Xinhai is lighter overall. The Gold Red Pro has an actuation force of 43 grams, while the Xinhai has a lower actuation force of 37 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Gold Red Pro's information is unknown, but the Xinhai has a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the Gold Red Pro may potentially have a lighter bottom out force compared to the Xinhai. Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing a switch, as a lighter actuation force may be preferred for extended typing or gaming sessions, while a heavier bottom out force provides a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer their own advantages depending on individual preference, with the Xinhai being lighter overall and the Gold Red Pro potentially offering a lighter bottom out force.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Gold Red Pro has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Xinhai. The Gold Red Pro would provide a slightly deeper feel when pressing down on the key, which may be preferred by those who like a more substantial keystroke. On the other hand, the Xinhai with its slightly shorter travel distance may be preferred by gamers looking for quicker response times. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for users who prefer a more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gold Red Pro linear switch is known for its neutral and low-pitched sound profile, providing a satisfying thocky feel that is not too overwhelming. On the other hand, the Xinhai linear switch offers a clacky and percussive sound, thanks to its unique PA12 top housing and POM stem combination. Depending on your preference, the Gold Red Pro would be suitable for a more balanced and versatile sound, while the Xinhai would appeal to those who prefer a sharper and crisp sound during typing sessions.
In terms of feel, the Gold Red Pro linear switch offers a polished, silky, mild, and subtle typing experience, providing a smooth and refined feel with gentle resistance. This makes it approachable to a wide range of users, suitable for various typing tasks. Conversely, the Xinhai linear switch offers a bouncy and creamy typing sensation, with a spring-like feedback and a smooth, buttery feel that enhances the overall typing experience. Depending on your preference, the Gold Red Pro would cater more to those seeking a gentle and subtle typing experience, while the Xinhai would suit those who enjoy a more lively and creamy feel while typing.
In conclusion, both the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. The Gold Red Pro excels in its neutral sound and polished, mild feel, providing a versatile and balanced typing experience. On the other hand, the Xinhai stands out with its clacky sound and bouncy, creamy feel, offering a distinctively sharp and smooth typing sensation. Ultimately, choosing between these switches would depend on whether you prefer a more neutral and refined typing experience (Gold Red Pro) or a sharper and livelier feel (Xinhai), allowing you to achieve your desired typing performance based on your personal preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, consider your preferences and priorities. If you value versatility, a neutral sound signature, and a smooth typing experience, the Gold Red Pro may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a unique sound profile with a higher-pitched resonance and a softer acoustics profile, the Xinhai could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, both switches offer their own distinct characteristics and advantages, so choosing between them will depend on what you prioritize in your typing experience.
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