TTC Light Cloud V2 vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the HMX Xinhai mechanical keyboard switches, we see two excellent options for those seeking a top-tier typing experience. The Light Cloud V2 offers a silent and refined typing feel, making it a great choice for those who prefer a delicate and nuanced experience. On the other hand, the Xinhai boasts a unique PA12 top housing for softer acoustics and a POM stem for a crisp, higher-pitched resonance, providing a blend of sophistication and precise performance. While both switches have their own strengths and characteristics, such as the Light Cloud V2's mild and easy-to-press nature and the Xinhai's bouncy and creamy feel, it ultimately comes down to personal preference when choosing between the two. 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
58g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated double-staged spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the HMX Xinhai offer different sound profiles and characteristics. The Light Cloud V2 features a nylon top housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Xinhai utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile with its stiffer plastic. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, they cater to different preferences regarding sound quality and aesthetics.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Light Cloud V2 and the Xinhai utilize nylon for its softer properties that create a deep and fuller sound profile. This consistency in the bottom housing material ensures a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel for both switches. However, the difference in top housing material between the two switches results in distinct sound profiles and characteristics, with the Light Cloud V2 offering a duller and rounder sound compared to the Xinhai's clearer and resonant sound.
Overall, the choice between the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the HMX Xinhai ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience. The nylon bottom housing in both switches provides a deep and fuller sound profile, while the variability in top housing material offers a choice between a duller, rounder sound with the Light Cloud V2's nylon top housing or a sharper, crisper sound with the Xinhai's polycarbonate top housing. Depending on individual preferences for sound quality and aesthetics, users can select the switch that aligns with their typing preferences and overall experience.
Weight
The TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch has a higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the HMX Xinhai linear switch, which has an actuation force of 37 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Light Cloud V2 requires 58 grams, while the Xinhai only needs 45 grams. This means that the Light Cloud V2 is heavier both in actuation and bottom out force compared to the Xinhai, making it more suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel while typing. On the other hand, the Xinhai's lighter actuation and bottom out force make it ideal for users who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preferences for typing feel and force.
Travel distance
The TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both of these switches fall on the shorter end of the spectrum when it comes to travel distance, with the Light Cloud V2 being slightly longer than the Xinhai. Gamers may prefer these shorter travel distances for faster response times, as they allow for quick key presses. However, some users may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt and prefer a slightly longer distance for a more satisfying key press. Overall, whether you choose the Light Cloud V2 or the Xinhai will depend on your personal preference for key feel and response time.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Light Cloud V2 has an MSRP of $6.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Cloud V2 for $5.49.
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 Light Cloud V2 linear switch is described as muted and neutral, providing a softer and quieter typing experience that minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch is characterized as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, which can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. The sound of both switches will be influenced by factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps used, but if you prefer a quieter typing experience, the Light Cloud V2 would be the preferred option, while the Xinhai would be suitable for those who enjoy a more pronounced and lively typing sound.
In terms of feel, the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch offers a mild, easy-to-press, and feathery typing experience, providing a gentle and effortless key press with minimal resistance, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch is described as bouncy and creamy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation and a smooth, buttery typing experience that feels like gliding across the keys with ease. Both switches offer unique tactile feedback that caters to different preferences - the Light Cloud V2 for a softer and effortless typing feel, and the Xinhai for a more lively and smooth typing experience.
Overall, the TTC Light Cloud V2 and HMX Xinhai linear switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Light Cloud V2 excels in providing a muted and easy-to-press typing experience, perfect for those seeking a delicate and nuanced feel, while the Xinhai stands out with its clacky sound and bouncy, creamy feel, offering a more lively and smooth typing sensation. Depending on your preference for sound and key press resistance, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that you'll get similar results in terms of overall quality and performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a medium bottom out force for a refined typing experience with a muted and neutral sound profile, along with an easy-to-press and feathery feel, the TTC Light Cloud V2 may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force with a clacky sound profile, along with a bouncy and creamy feel, the HMX Xinhai could be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal typing style, sound preferences, and desired typing feel. Choose wisely based on your own preferences and needs.
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