TTC Neptune vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the TTC Neptune and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between options that cater to different typing experiences and preferences. The TTC Neptune and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), both linear switches, exemplify this diversity in design and feel. The Neptune switch stands out for its innovative internal structure, which offers a remarkably smooth and frictionless typing experience, accompanied by a uniquely springy resistance that has been likened to the delightful chewiness of mochi. Its ultralight design allows for swift and effortless keystrokes, all while delivering a muted, thocky sound signature that many find appealing. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) takes a different approach, featuring a heavier actuation force that provides a more substantial feedback. Constructed with a PA12 top housing and a POM stem, this switch combines softer acoustics with a crisp, higher-pitched resonance, making it perfect for those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile element in their typing experience. Both switches possess unique qualities that cater to specific user preferences, whether you favor the soft, cushy vibes of the Neptune or the pronounced, sophisticated tones of the Xinhai. 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
41g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Neptune and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), one can identify both similarities and differences that play a significant role in the overall sound profile produced by each switch. The TTC Neptune utilizes a POM top housing and a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) features a nylon top housing accompanied by a nylon bottom housing. The different materials used in the top housings contribute to distinct sound characteristics: the Neptune’s POM is known for creating a muted, deeper sound profile, whereas the nylon top housing of the Xinhai (Heavy) offers a fuller and also deeper tone. This difference indicates that while both switches might share a preference for lower tonal depth, the materials used yield unique auditory experiences.
On the flip side, the materials constituting the bottom housings deliver contrasting sound properties. The Neptune’s polycarbonate bottom housing stands out with its sharper and crisper sound due to the stiffer nature of the plastic, resulting in a more resonant auditory profile. In contrast, the nylon used in the Xinhai (Heavy) bottom housing also absorbs sound, which yields a deeper and rounder output. This dichotomy reflects a potential divergence in overall sound character, where one switch leans more towards clarity (Neptune) and the other towards warmth (Xinhai). Consequently, while both switches may excel in delivering deep sounds, their bottom housing materials play critical roles in shaping their distinct acoustic signatures.
The impact of these contrasting housing materials is highlighted by how each switch still manages to produce desirable sound experiences. For instance, since the bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel, the Neptune's polycarbonate bottom enhances the clarity, while the Xinhai's nylon contributes to a fuller sound upon bottoming out. However, the top housing remains equally influential upon key release; hence, the Neptune's POM top will create a different auditory experience compared to the nylon top of the Xinhai. In summary, though both switches may appear to share aims towards creating skilled, deep sounds, the materials' differing qualities ultimately shape their unique acoustic outcomes.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Neptune linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, there are distinct differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Neptune switch features a lighter actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience, especially suitable for prolonged use during work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch demands a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, catering to users who enjoy a more substantial tactile feedback with each keystroke. This demonstrates that the Neptune is the lighter option, while the Xinhai (Heavy) provides a firmer feel. The differences in these forces indicate that the two switches serve different preferences, with the Neptune providing a more lightweight experience and the Xinhai offering a stronger push for those seeking a more pronounced typing sensation.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Neptune linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, it is evident that the Neptune offers a longer travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Xinhai (Heavy) features a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. For users who prioritize responsiveness, the Xinhai (Heavy) may be the preferred choice due to its shorter travel distance, enabling quicker actuation and a snappier feel, which can be especially beneficial in gaming scenarios. Conversely, the Neptune's longer travel distance might appeal to those who appreciate a more substantial keystroke and a deeper tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference: for a more abrupt feel, the Xinhai (Heavy) is ideal, while those who favor a heartier depth may lean towards the Neptune.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Neptune has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Neptune for $5.09.
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 $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 Neptune linear switch stands out with its muted and thocky sound signature. This switch produces a low-pitched, subdued tone that offers a significantly quieter typing experience. The rich, thocky sound is associated with a satisfying deep "thud" upon actuation, making it ideal for those who prefer a less disruptive auditory feedback. On the other hand, the detailed sound profile of the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch is less clearly defined, though the unique PA12 housing implies a softer acoustics profile compared to more traditional switches. Without specific descriptors available, one might expect the Xinhai to produce a sound that is refined and sophisticated, potentially leaning towards a crisp tone that may contrast with the Neptune’s thocky depth.
In terms of feel, the Neptune switch truly shines with attributes like buttery, frictionless, and even gummy sensations. This results in a typing experience that is both smooth and fluid, almost mirroring the soft, playful qualities of mochi or gummy candies. The Neptune provides a delightful bottom-out feel, which can feel somewhat like pressure being eased from a trampoline. In contrast, details regarding the feel of the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch are unavailable, leaving its tactile experience somewhat of a mystery. However, given its construction, one might expect the Xinhai to deliver a distinct and precise typing experience, albeit with unknown characteristics in terms of friction, smoothness, or travel resistance.
In conclusion, both the TTC Neptune and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switches offer unique auditory and tactile characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Neptune is particularly appealing for those seeking a muted, thocky sound coupled with a smooth and effortless typing action. In contrast, while the specifics of the Xinhai’s sound and feel remain unclear, its construction hints at a potentially crisp and refined auditory profile, along with a distinctive typing sensation. Ultimately, while you may get similar results from using either switch in terms of linearity, the subjective experiences will differ, appealing to various typing styles and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, selecting between the TTC Neptune and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a lightweight feel that allows for rapid key presses, the Neptune is the ideal choice. Its 50-gram bottom-out force provides a nearly frictionless experience, making it perfect for long typing sessions or fast-paced gaming, complemented by a muted, thocky sound profile that won't disturb those around you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that offers more resistance and a slightly higher actuation force—along with a crisp sound quality—the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) can be your go-to. With its 62.5-gram bottom-out force, this switch offers a more deliberate and substantial typing experience, perfect for those who appreciate the tactile feedback and slightly higher pitch of its acoustics. In conclusion, your choice should align with whether you seek a playful and smooth touch with the Neptune or a more pronounced, heavier feel with the Xinhai (Heavy).
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