TTC Honey vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the TTC Honey and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Honey and HMX Xinhai both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The TTC Honey is praised for its smooth and creamy feel, along with a deep and pleasant sound profile. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai stands out with its unique PA12 top housing and POM stem that provide a softer acoustics profile and distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance. While the Honey switch is categorized as 'Subdued', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', 'Buttery', 'Subtle', 'Polished', the Xinhai switch is labeled as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', 'Creamy'. In general, the Honey may appeal to those looking for a smoother typing experience, while the Xinhai could be attractive to individuals seeking a more tactile and crisp 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
42g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
25.5 mm lengthened spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Honey and the HMX Xinhai both utilize polycarbonate in their top housings, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which results in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. However, while both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, they may still offer slightly different sound profiles based on other factors such as bottom housing material.
In contrast to the similar polycarbonate top housings, the bottom housings of the TTC Honey and the HMX Xinhai differ in material. The Honey utilizes polycarbonate in its bottom housing as well, maintaining a consistent sound profile throughout the switch. On the other hand, the Xinhai features a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the sharper sound of polycarbonate. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches.
Overall, the combination of different housing materials in the top and bottom of a switch can impact both the sound and feel of typing. While both the Honey and the Xinhai share the use of polycarbonate in their top housings for a sharper sound profile, their bottom housing materials introduce variations in sound characteristics. The choice between polycarbonate and nylon bottom housings will affect the overall typing experience, with polycarbonate offering a crisper sound and nylon providing a fuller sound output.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Honey linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, we can see that the Xinhai is lighter in both aspects. The Honey has an actuation force of 42 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 have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces compared to other switches on the market. This means that users who prefer a lighter typing experience may find both options to be suitable, allowing them to type for longer periods without fatigue. However, those who prefer a slightly heavier push may lean towards the Honey switch for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
The TTC Honey linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Honey switch has a longer travel distance compared to the Xinhai switch. The 0.4 mm may not seem like a significant difference, but it can impact the feel and response of the keyboard. If you prefer a more responsive key press, the Xinhai switch with a shorter travel distance would be the better option. Gamers, in particular, often prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial key press and a bit more depth to your typing experience, you may lean towards the Honey switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you prefer.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Honey has an MSRP of $9.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey for $6.78.
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 TTC Honey linear switch offers a more subdued and dampened sound profile, providing a quieter typing experience compared to other switches. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch produces a clacky and sharp sound, offering a more crisp and bright typing sensation. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference and the desired level of noise in your typing environment.
In terms of feel, the TTC Honey linear switch is known for its creamy and frictionless typing experience, characterized by a smooth and buttery feel when typing. This switch also offers a subtle and polished sensation, providing a gentle resistance with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch is described as bouncy and creamy, offering a spring-like feedback and a silky typing sensation. Both switches focus on providing a comfortable and effortless typing experience, with slight differences in the tactile feedback they offer.
Overall, the choice between the TTC Honey linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch would depend on individual preferences for sound and feel while typing. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for newcomers looking to invest in high-quality mechanical keyboard switches. If you enjoy a quieter and smoother typing experience, the TTC Honey switch may be the right choice for you. If you prefer a more crisp and lively typing sensation, the HMX Xinhai switch could be a better fit. Ultimately, trying out both switches on different keyboards and keycap setups will help determine which one aligns best with your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Honey linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 50 grams and a smooth, creamy feel with a deep sound profile, the Honey switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams, a unique PA12 top housing for softer acoustics, and a POM stem for a crisper, higher-pitched resonance, the Xinhai switch might be more suitable for your preferences. Additionally, if you enjoy a more subdued sound profile, the Honey switch is ideal, while the Xinhai switch provides a clacky, sharp sound. When it comes to feel, the Honey offers creamy, frictionless, buttery, subtle, and polished sensations, while the Xinhai provides a bouncy and creamy experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your personal preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. Choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences and typing style for an optimal mechanical keyboard experience.
Mentioned in this article
