Gazzew LT vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)

Overview

When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gazzew LT and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) stand out as compelling options, each offering distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Gazzew LT, with its enticing lilac hue, presents a delightful auditory experience marked by deep, resonant "thockiness" that creates a satisfying sound with each keystroke. Its design promotes a seamless glide, making it an ideal choice for users who appreciate a bassy, low-pitched sound and a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) showcases a heavier action combined with a unique PA12 top housing, which contributes to softer acoustics and a crisp, higher-pitched resonance thanks to its POM stem. This switch is perfect for those who seek a blend of subtle sophistication and precise performance, offering a different audio profile that may appeal to users who prioritize responsiveness over sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gazzew LT Linear

HMX Xinhai (Heavy) Linear

$6.50 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gazzew LT and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches exhibit interesting similarities and differences, particularly in their housing materials. The Gazzew LT features a proprietary blend of plastic, often referred to as "boba plastic," which is known for its softness and ability to produce a rich and deep sound profile. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, a material synonymous with classic switch designs. While the Gazzew blend is unique to its brand, both contribute to producing deeper sound profiles due to their softer compositions, highlighting a shared goal in achieving auditory richness in typing experiences.

When examining the bottom housing of each switch, both the Gazzew LT and the Xinhai (Heavy) find common ground. The LT's use of its proprietary soft plastic blend mirrors the characteristics of nylon utilized in the Xinhai (Heavy). Both materials absorb sound effectively, providing a duller and rounder auditory experience as compared to harder plastics. This shared trait ensures that regardless of the specific material, users of both switches will experience a similar typing feel—enhanced bottom-out sounds that contribute to the overall satisfaction during use.

However, the differential characteristics between the two switches arise primarily in the top housing. The Gazzew LT's proprietary blend may introduce a unique element to the sound when releasing a key, which could vary from the consistent auditory profile offered by the nylon top housing of the Xinhai (Heavy). As the top housing contributes significantly to the sound profile during key release, the LT's distinct blend may create slight variations in auditory feedback. Still, both switches ultimately aim for a fuller typing experience, suggesting that even with their material differences, enthusiasts can achieve comparable results in sound and feel through either option.

Weight

When comparing the Gazzew LT linear switch to the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, there are notable differences in their force characteristics. The LT switch features an unknown actuation force, but it has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch has an actuation force of 55 grams and a slightly lower bottom out force of 62.5 grams, categorized as medium. This indicates that the Xinhai switch requires a lighter force to initiate a keystroke compared to the bottom out pressure of the Gazzew LT. Consequently, the Xinhai switch is the lighter option overall, making it potentially more comfortable for extended typing sessions, whereas the heavier bottom out force of the Gazzew LT may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, users looking for a lighter feel may gravitate towards the Xinhai, while those who enjoy a stronger push may opt for the Gazzew LT, despite its unknown actuation force.

Travel distance

The Gazzew LT linear switch features a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.4 mm. This difference indicates that the Xinhai switch travels further when pressed, providing a more pronounced tactile experience, which some users may prefer for its depth and feedback. In contrast, the shorter travel distance of the LT switch may appeal more to gamers and users who prioritize responsiveness and quicker actuation during intense activities. However, due to the proximity of their travel distances, users switching between the two may find their experience relatively similar, though the Xinhai will deliver that extra 0.2 mm, giving it the edge in depth. For those who enjoy a more traditional feel, the Xinhai’s longer distance may be desirable, while others may opt for the LT for a snappier response.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gazzew LT linear switch impresses with its deep, resonant thockiness which creates an auditory sensation reminiscent of rich bass tones. This "thocky" quality allows for a satisfying acoustic experience that makes each keystroke feel impactful, offering a sense of depth that many enthusiasts crave. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch is crafted to provide a sound profile that leans towards subtle sophistication. Its unique PA12 top housing delivers a softer acoustic experience, while the POM stem contributes a higher-pitched, crisp resonance. Consequently, while the LT produces a fuller, low-pitched thock, the Xinhai offers a more nuanced sound that balances crispness with a refined tone.

In terms of feel, the Gazzew LT linear switch excels in providing a smooth and seamless typing experience, allowing each keystroke to glide effortlessly. This makes it ideal for long typing sessions, as the lack of tactile bumps or resistance ensures minimal finger fatigue. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch also promises a satisfying feel, though specific characteristics regarding its tactile feedback or resistance are not provided. Thus, it's challenging to draw direct comparisons on the tactile sensation, leaving some unknowns about how the Xinhai might differ.

In conclusion, both the Gazzew LT linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch offer distinct auditory experiences that cater to different preferences. The LT's deep, thocky sound provides a rich acoustic profile, while the Xinhai delivers a crisp, softer tone for those seeking subtlety. When it comes to feel, the LT shines in providing smooth, effortless keystrokes, while the specifics of the Xinhai’s tactile feedback remain vague. Ultimately, both switches present unique qualities, allowing users to choose based on their auditory and tactile preferences while expecting consistent high performance in their mechanical keyboards.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Gazzew LT linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound profile. If you appreciate a slightly heavier keypress with a lush auditory feedback, the LT switch, with its medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and deep thocky sound, would likely appeal to you. The Gazzew LTs offer a smooth typing experience combined with a satisfying low-pitched, bassy tone, making them ideal for those who enjoy both a tactile response and rich acoustics during typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a more moderate actuation force that emphasizes a crisp, higher-pitched resonance without sacrificing performance, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch, with its 62.5-gram bottom out force, is a superb choice. Its unique construction provides a subtle yet sophisticated sound profile, making it perfect for typing sessions where precision is key and a softer acoustic experience is desired. Ultimately, consider what aspects matter most to you—whether it's the heavier, more thocky nature of the LT or the refined clarity of the Xinhai (Heavy)—and let that inform your decision for an optimal mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gazzew LT Linear

$6.50 per 10

Learn more

HMX Xinhai (Heavy) Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more