KTT Lightning vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the KTT Lightning and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Lightning and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) both offer their own distinct advantages, appealing to different preferences and typing experiences. The KTT Lightning, known for its speed-oriented design, caters to gamers and users who prioritize quick response times, providing a slick typing feel along with a clacky sound profile that amplifies the tactile feedback with every keystroke. This switch is ideal for those who thrive on competitive gameplay, where milliseconds can make all the difference. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) focuses on delivering a more refined acoustic experience, thanks to its unique PA12 top housing and POM stem, which together create a crisp, higher-pitched resonance while maintaining a softer sound profile. This makes it a superb choice for users seeking a balance between sophistication and performance, particularly in a more subdued setting. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 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
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
The KTT Lightning and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches incorporate distinct materials in their top housings, which significantly influence the acoustic characteristics of each switch. The Lightning features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffness and ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This material’s translucency also enhances the visual appeal in setups that utilize RGB lighting, making it a popular choice for gamers and typists looking for both aesthetic and auditory advantages. The higher frequency resonance offered by the polycarbonate is particularly appealing for those who prefer a more pronounced key release sound, contributing to a lively typing experience.
In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) opts for a nylon top housing, which is celebrated for its softer composition that leads to a deeper, fuller sound profile. The nylon material absorbs more sound waves due to its inherent softness, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. This makes the Xinhai (Heavy) appealing for users who enjoy a quieter, more muted experience. While both materials serve the purpose of housing switches, their differing impact on sound quality illustrates how the choice of housing material can cater to varied user preferences.
Interestingly, both switches feature nylon for their bottom housings, aligning their outcomes in terms of sound profile. The utilization of nylon on both switches in this context assures that the deeper, fuller sound is preserved irrespective of the top housing differences. Since the bottom housing significantly contributes to the bottom-out sound and feel, both switches will offer a satisfying and cohesive tactile experience despite the contrasting top housing materials. Collectively, this demonstrates how the integration of differing materials in switch design can produce a range of auditory experiences, allowing users to choose based on their individual preferences for sound dynamics.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Lightning linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, we observe distinct differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Lightning features a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which allows for quicker and less strenuous keystrokes—ideal for extended typing sessions or long gaming stints. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, providing a more substantial push feel that some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. As a result, those who favor lighter switches might gravitate towards the KTT Lightning for ease and comfort, while users seeking a firmer resistance and greater durability might opt for the HMX Xinhai.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, a notable difference emerges. The KTT Lightning features a travel distance of 3 mm, making it one of the shallower options available, which can be beneficial for gamers looking for quicker response times. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) offers a longer travel distance of 3.4 mm, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial keypress that may feel more satisfying and less abrupt. Therefore, the Lightning is the shorter option, while the Xinhai (Heavy) is the longer option. These differences suggest that those who favor speed and responsiveness might gravitate toward the Lightning, while those who appreciate a deeper keystroke may prefer the Xinhai (Heavy).
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Xinhai (Heavy) 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 (Heavy) for $2.99.
The KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41 per 10 switches.
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 characteristics, the KTT Lightning linear switch is known for its unique clacky profile, which delivers a sharp, snappy auditory feedback when pressed. This sound signature is bright, crisp, and percussive, featuring high-pitched tones that cater to those who prefer a more lively acoustic experience compared to richer, bass-heavy sounds. Additionally, the Lightning exhibits a chirpy quality that adds to its distinctive audio signature. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch lacks specific sound descriptors, so its acoustic profile remains less defined. However, it is crafted from a PA12 top housing aimed at softer acoustics, making it potentially quieter and more subdued in comparison to the Lightning.
In terms of tactile feel, the KTT Lightning switches offer a subtle typing experience characterized by gentle resistance, maintaining a light touch. This level of feedback results in a polished feel, attributed to the materials used and possibly factory lubing, which minimizes friction for smooth key travel. This kind of feel is ideal for those who enjoy a refined typing experience. Conversely, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) does not have a specified feel profile available, leaving its tactile characteristics unnamed. However, given its heavy designation, it may offer a firmer response, which could appeal to those seeking more resistance in their keystrokes.
In summary, the KTT Lightning linear switch stands out with its clacky, high-pitched sound and smooth, polished feel, making it suitable for those who prioritize both auditory feedback and a refined typing experience. The lack of detailed sound and feel descriptors for the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch means it remains somewhat of an enigma in comparison. Nevertheless, both switches serve specific preferences, and while the Lightning offers a lively auditory and tactile experience, the Xinhai could cater to individuals looking for a different aesthetic and typing feel. Each switch has unique qualities; choices may hinge on individual preferences for sound and feel, with the Lightning clearly defined while the Xinhai remains largely unknown.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the KTT Lightning linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch ultimately comes down to your specific typing preferences and the applications you intend to use your mechanical keyboard for. If you prioritize speed and a lightweight feel, especially for gaming or fast-paced typing tasks where every millisecond counts, the KTT Lightning switch's 50-gram bottom-out force and clacky sound profile will serve you well. Its polished and subtle typing experience ensures you get a smooth keystroke that supports quick reactions. On the other hand, if you desire greater resistance and a more sophisticated acoustic experience, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch, with its 62.5-gram bottom-out force, is your ideal choice. Its unique materials contribute to a crisp and high-pitched resonance, making it perfect for a refined typing experience, perhaps more suited for long writing sessions or office environments where you might want to maintain a subtler sound. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you're leaning towards a more dynamic and responsive switch or a heavier, more nuanced typing feel.
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