KTT Hyacinth vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the KTT Hyacinth and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Hyacinth and the HMX Xinhai mechanical keyboard switches, it is clear that they each have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Hyacinth is distinguished by its 3.5mm travel distance, aiming to provide a balanced tactile feedback and comfort while avoiding a hard bottoming-out experience. In contrast, the Xinhai stands out with its PA12 top housing for a softer acoustics profile and a POM stem for a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance. The Hyacinth offers a more neutral and silky typing experience, while the Xinhai provides a bouncy and clacky feel with a creamy touch. 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
45g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
56g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Hyacinth and the HMX Xinhai both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when typing on switches with polycarbonate top housings. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially useful for switches with RGB lighting. While both switches have polycarbonate top housings, they may differ in their overall sound profile based on other factors such as the bottom housing material.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the Hyacinth and Xinhai both use nylon, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. Nylon is a softer material that absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Despite having different top housing materials, both switches share the quality of using nylon for the bottom housing, which contributes to the overall typing feel and sound experience.
When comparing the KTT Hyacinth and the HMX Xinhai, it is important to consider how the qualities of the housing materials are distributed between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing material has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. While both switches may have similar polycarbonate top housings, the use of nylon for the bottom housing may result in subtle differences in sound profile and typing experience between the two switches.
Weight
The KTT Hyacinth linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the HMX Xinhai linear switch, which has an actuation force of 37 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Hyacinth requires 56 grams, while the Xinhai only requires 45 grams. This means that the Hyacinth switch is heavier overall, with a more substantial typing experience due to both a higher actuation and bottom out force. In contrast, the Xinhai switch is lighter in comparison, making it easier to type for longer periods without experiencing fatigue. Both switches provide a decent typing experience, but it ultimately comes down to personal preference when deciding between a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the travel distance of the HMX Xinhai linear switch is 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular for gamers looking for faster response times. The Hyacinth has a slightly longer travel distance, making it ideal for those who prefer a bit more depth when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, the Xinhai offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to those who prioritize quick and rapid key presses. Overall, both switches provide a similar experience due to their close proximity in travel distance, allowing users to achieve comparable results in terms of responsiveness and feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Hyacinth has an MSRP of $4.03 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hyacinth for $3.75.
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 KTT Hyacinth switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai switch provides a clacky sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive, giving a different auditory experience. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the KTT Hyacinth switch provides a silky typing experience that minimizes resistance and enhances smoothness. It also offers a subtle tactile feedback that is gentle and suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai switch offers a bouncy feel with a spring-like feedback sensation, giving the keys a lively rebound when pressed. Additionally, the Xinhai switch provides a creamy typing experience that is smooth and buttery, making each keystroke feel effortless.
Overall, both the KTT Hyacinth and HMX Xinhai switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. Depending on personal preference and the desired typing experience, users can choose between the neutral and silky characteristics of the Hyacinth switch or the clacky and bouncy features of the Xinhai switch. Ultimately, experimenting with different switches on various keyboards and keycap setups will allow users to find the perfect combination for their typing needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, consider your preferences for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force with a neutral sound profile and a silky typing experience, the Hyacinth may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force with a clacky sound profile and a bouncy, creamy typing feel, the Xinhai switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style to ensure the best keyboard experience for you.
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