TTC Gold Red Pro vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often weigh the characteristics of each option carefully to find the perfect fit for their typing style and preferences. The TTC Gold Red Pro is celebrated for its remarkable versatility and ease of use, offering a smooth typing experience suitable for a wide range of activities from gaming to professional work. With a neutral sound signature that strikes a balance between being too pronounced and too muted, this switch adapts seamlessly to various auditory environments. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) offers a more robust tactile experience, capitalizing on its PA12 top housing for muted acoustics and a POM stem that delivers a crisp, nuanced sound. This switch stands out for those seeking a more pronounced typing feedback while still maintaining a level of sophistication in its acoustic profile. Both switches cater to linear switch enthusiasts, yet they each present unique attributes that can sway a user's decision. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62.5g
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 TTC Gold Red Pro and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) exhibit distinct characteristics in their top housing materials, leading to varying sound profiles that can cater to different user preferences. The Gold Red Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound output. This characteristic is particularly favorable for users who prefer a more pronounced auditory experience, especially when using RGB lighting, as the polycarbonate's translucency enhances the visual effects of the lights. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) opts for a nylon top housing, which is renowned for its ability to produce a deeper, fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon results in sound absorption that creates a more muted, rounded auditory signature, appealing to users seeking a more subdued acoustic performance.
Both switches showcase nylon as their bottom housing material, which harmonizes their acoustic properties in significant ways. The nylon bottom housing in both the Gold Red Pro and the Xinhai (Heavy) contributes to a similar deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon absorbs sound effectively, preventing excessive reverberation that can detract from the keystroke feel. Despite the differences in their top housing materials, the shared characteristic of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that users experience a rich, rounded sound during key presses. While the feel when bottoming out may be influenced by the top housing's material—though both feature the same bottom material—the overall typing experience would remain consistent in terms of depth and fullness.
Ultimately, the combination of materials in both the Gold Red Pro and the Xinhai (Heavy) highlights a contrast in tonal quality that dictates the user experience. The polycarbonate top of the Gold Red Pro provides a crisper sound upon release, which is significant for those who appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback when lifting their fingers off the keys. Conversely, the nylon top of the Xinhai (Heavy) softens the sound during key release, creating an overall rounder and more muted experience. However, since both switches share nylon for their bottom housing, they will have similar base qualities, allowing users who prioritize the deeper full sound to enjoy consistent auditory performance across both models, despite the tonal variations introduced by the differing top materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, there are notable differences in both metrics. The Gold Red Pro has a lighter actuation force at 43 grams, making it potentially more comfortable for long typing sessions or extended gaming, as it requires less effort to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch necessitates a stronger push with an actuation force of 55 grams, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. However, while the bottom out force for the Gold Red Pro is unknown, the Xinhai (Heavy) has a defined bottom out force of 62.5 grams, indicating it provides more resistance all the way down. Thus, individuals who prioritize lighter switches may gravitate towards the Gold Red Pro for its ease in actuation, while those desiring a heavier and more tactile response might choose the HMX Xinhai (Heavy).
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, the differences are quite notable. The Gold Red Pro features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, whereas the Xinhai (Heavy) boasts a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This indicates that the Xinhai (Heavy) will provide a snappier response, aligning with the preferences of gamers who often appreciate quicker actuation for faster response times. On the other hand, the Gold Red Pro, with its longer 3.8 mm travel, may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial keystroke, providing a deeper, more satisfying feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences: for those who favor responsiveness, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) is the better option, while the TTC Gold Red Pro may be preferred by those who appreciate a more hearty depth in their keystrokes.
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 (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 Red Pro linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched auditory feedback, providing a satisfying deep "thud" with each keystroke that is both enjoyable and non-intrusive. This neutral sound signature makes it adaptable to various environments, whether at work or during gaming sessions, as it won’t disrupt others nearby. On the other hand, the sound profile of the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch remains unmentioned, making it difficult to directly compare. However, if crafted with precision, it likely offers some unique tonal qualities that may align with individual preferences, influenced by the choice of board and keycaps.
When examining the feel, the Gold Red Pro is distinguished by its polished and silky characteristics, resulting in a notably smooth and refined typing experience. With mild resistance and subtle feedback, it allows for comfortable use over extended periods, accommodating both beginners and seasoned typists alike. Conversely, the feel of the Xinhai (Heavy) switch hasn’t been specified, which leaves a gap in understanding its tactile nuances. If it follows the heavy theme, it may deliver a more pronounced resistance, but the exact sensation remains unknown.
In conclusion, both switches seem to cater to users looking for versatile linear options, though the TTC Gold Red Pro stands out with its established sound and feel profiles. The adaptability of its sound makes it suitable for various settings, while its smooth typing experience eases the transition for newcomers to mechanical keyboards. The unknown qualities of the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) might intrigue some users, yet without specific details on sound and feel, the Gold Red Pro offers a more predictable and reliable choice for those venturing into the world of mechanical switches. If seeking a solid option, the Gold Red Pro is a go-to, while those drawn to the Xinhai (Heavy) may be taking a chance on its potentially unique experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch ultimately hinges on your specific typing and gaming preferences. If you prioritize a light and effortless actuation for a blend of gaming and typing, the Gold Red Pro is an excellent option. Its polished and silky feel, combined with a neutral sound profile, ensures a satisfying experience that can cater to different environments, whether you’re in an office or enjoying a gaming session at home. On the other hand, if you seek a more substantial feedback through a heavier spring that provides a satisfying resistance, the Xinhai (Heavy) would be advantageous, especially for those who appreciate a bit more force in their keystrokes. The unique material composition of the Xinhai switch also contributes to a distinct acoustic signature that can enhance the auditory sensation of typing. Therefore, your decision should align with whether you prefer lighter, smoother keystrokes or a more robust tactility that demands a bit more physical engagement.
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