TTC Gold Red vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a variety of options available to suit different preferences and typing styles. The TTC Gold Red and HMX Xinhai are both linear switches that offer unique characteristics for users to consider. The Gold Red provides a smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a snappy sound profile, adding a touch of personality to your keyboard. On the other hand, the Xinhai features a softer acoustics profile with a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance, offering a blend of sophistication and precise performance. While the Gold Red may appeal to those who prefer a silky and subtle typing experience, the Xinhai is a great choice for individuals seeking a bouncy and creamy feel. 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
50g
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
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
Both the Gold Red and the Xinhai keyboards feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. This allows for a more resonant sound experience and is especially beneficial for switches that utilize RGB lighting. The similarities in the polycarbonate top housing of both keyboards highlight the importance of this material in enhancing sound quality and aesthetics.
However, while both keyboards share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing, they differ in their choice of nylon for the bottom housing. The Gold Red's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, the Xinhai's nylon bottom housing also contributes to a similar deep and full sound profile. This contrast in the bottom housing material showcases how different materials can impact the overall sound experience of a keyboard.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in both the Gold Red and the Xinhai keyboards highlights how different compositions can affect sound quality and typing experience. While both keyboards utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, the use of nylon for the bottom housing in each keyboard demonstrates how varying material compositions can create unique sound profiles. These differences in housing materials contribute to the overall tactile and auditory experience of typing on each keyboard.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is evident that both switches are relatively light in terms of force required. The Gold Red has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Xinhai has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. Both switches fall into the lighter weight category, making them suitable for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions. However, the Xinhai is slightly lighter in both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Gold Red. This difference may be minor, but for those who prefer an even lighter touch, the Xinhai may be the preferred option. Overall, these switches provide a comfortable typing experience with a light and satisfying feel, making them ideal choices for users looking for a lighter actuation force and bottom out force in their mechanical keyboard switches.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is evident that the Xinhai has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Gold Red's 4 mm. The Gold Red falls into the more traditional range of travel distances, while the Xinhai is on the shallower end. Gamers may favor the Xinhai for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial depth in their key presses may opt for the Gold Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness in typing or gaming experiences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red 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 Red for $3.28.
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 Red linear switch is best described as having a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, offering a deep and rich sound with a satisfying "thud" when pressed. This switch also falls under the category of being neutral, providing a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile suitable for various uses. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch is characterized by a clacky sound, producing a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. The sound produced by both switches is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Red linear switch offers a mild and silky typing experience with a subtle and polished touch. The switch provides a gentle typing feel with minimal resistance, enhanced smoothness, and refined finish for a sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch is known for its bouncy and creamy feel, providing a spring-like sensation with elastic feedback and a smooth, buttery typing experience. Both switches aim to offer a comfortable and pleasing typing experience tailored to different preferences.
Overall, the TTC Gold Red and HMX Xinhai linear switches offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The Gold Red excels in providing a smooth and refined typing experience with a deep, thocky sound profile, while the Xinhai stands out for its clacky sound and bouncy, creamy feel. Both switches have their own distinctive characteristics that can enhance the typing experience, and users can expect similar results in terms of overall satisfaction and performance from both options. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between TTC Gold Red linear switches and HMX Xinhai linear switches, consider the following guidelines based on your preferences. If you prefer a slightly higher bottom out force and a smooth typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Gold Red switches would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lower bottom out force and a unique acoustics profile with a clacky sound, the Xinhai switches may be more suitable for your typing style. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you are looking for.
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