KTT Laurel vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the KTT Laurel and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Laurel and the HMX Xinhai linear mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The KTT Laurel is praised for its medium-light linear design, full POM housing, and short travel distance, providing a responsive and comfortable typing experience. Additionally, the Laurel switch boasts a subtly low-pitched sound profile, appealing to users who prefer quieter operation. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai stands out with its PA12 top housing for softer acoustics and POM stem for a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance. This switch offers a blend of bouncy, clacky, and creamy typing sensations, making it a preferred choice for those who enjoy a more tactile and pronounced typing experience. 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
1.80 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
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22m spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Laurel and the HMX Xinhai, the POM top housing of the Laurel creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Xinhai produces a sharper and crisper sound. The POM material provides a unique sound experience, whereas the polycarbonate offers a more clear and resonant sound profile, especially ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Despite their differences, both materials contribute to enhancing the overall typing experience in their own distinct ways.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the POM bottom housing of the Laurel generates a deep and pleasing sound, while the nylon bottom housing of the Xinhai produces a fuller and rounder sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and provides a duller sound compared to the stiffer POM material. Each housing material plays a significant role in shaping the sound profile of the switch, catering to different preferences and tastes in typing experience.
When considering how the top and bottom housing materials interact in each switch, it is important to note that the qualities of each material will contribute differently to the overall sound and feel of the switch. The impact of the bottom housing will be more prominent in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will have a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. Despite their unique characteristics, both the Laurel and the Xinhai offer a high-quality typing experience, showcasing the importance of housing materials in customizing sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Laurel linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is clear that both switches are on the lighter side. The Laurel 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 provide a light typing experience, making them ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. For those who prefer a lighter touch, either switch would be a suitable choice. While the Laurel requires slightly more force to actuate and bottom out compared to the Xinhai, the difference is minimal. Ultimately, users of both switches can expect a similar typing experience in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Laurel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. In comparison, both switches offer relatively short travel distances compared to the more traditional 4.0 mm option. Gamers may prefer the Xinhai for its slightly faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Laurel with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for either a quicker or more deliberate key press experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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 $2.99.
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 Laurel linear switch offers a subtly low-pitched tone, bringing a more bass-heavy and mellow sound profile to your typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch provides a clacky sound, characterized by a sharp and snappy tone that is crisp, bright, and percussive. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Laurel leaning towards a mellower sound and the Xinhai offering a more vibrant and lively acoustic experience.
In terms of feel, the KTT Laurel switch is known for its snappy response, thanks to its longer pole design and full POM housing that provide a responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai switch offers a bouncy and creamy feel, providing a spring-like feedback sensation and a smooth, buttery typing experience. Both switches offer unique tactile feedback, with the Laurel delivering a snappier feel and the Xinhai providing a more elastic and smooth sensation while typing.
Overall, the KTT Laurel linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch each offer their own distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Laurel provides a low-pitched sound and a snappier feel, the Xinhai offers a clacky sound profile and a bouncy, creamy typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and tactile feedback. However, users can expect high-quality performance and a satisfying typing experience from either switch option.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the KTT Laurel linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, you should consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a low-pitched sound profile with snappy typing feel, the KTT Laurel switch would be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a clacky sound profile, and a bouncy or creamy typing feel, then the HMX Xinhai switch might be more suitable for you. Remember that personal preference plays a significant role in determining the right switch for you, so make sure to consider all aspects before making your decision.
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