KTT Purple Star vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the KTT Purple Star and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Purple Star and the HMX Xinhai both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Purple Star is a linear switch known for its all-POM construction, providing a smooth typing experience with a neutral sound signature. With a light 45g bottom-out force, it is ideal for light typists seeking ease and comfort. On the other hand, the Xinhai is another linear switch featuring a unique PA12 top housing for softer acoustics and a POM stem for a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance. The Xinhai embodies subtle sophistication and precise performance. While the Purple Star is described as 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Easy-to-press', the Xinhai is characterized as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', and 'Creamy'. 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
Partial box
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Purple Star and the HMX Xinhai offer different sound profiles and characteristics. The Purple Star's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Xinhai's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing element to the overall switch design. On the other hand, the Purple Star's POM bottom housing contributes to the switch's pleasing sound profile, while the Xinhai's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition.
Although both switches offer unique sound profiles with their top and bottom housing materials, they also share some similarities. Both the Purple Star's POM and the Xinhai's nylon housings contribute to creating an overall pleasing sound experience, albeit with slightly different characteristics. The use of different housing materials for the top and bottom of the switch allows for a more nuanced sound profile, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.
Ultimately, the choice between the Purple Star and the Xinhai will depend on personal preference for sound profiles and aesthetic considerations. The Purple Star's POM housing may appeal to those who prefer a deeper and muted sound, while the Xinhai's polycarbonate housing may attract individuals looking for a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the use of nylon in the Xinhai's bottom housing provides a fuller sound experience, making it a suitable option for those seeking a more rounded sound profile. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and design.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Purple Star linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch both fall on the lighter side of the spectrum. The Purple Star 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. This means that both switches provide a softer typing experience compared to switches with heavier forces. Those who prefer a lighter touch may appreciate the ease of typing on these switches for extended periods of time. However, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may find these switches to be too light for their preference. In terms of weight, both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The KTT Purple Star 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. Both switches fall within the shorter travel distance range, making them suitable for those who prioritize quick response times, such as gamers. However, the Purple Star offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a slightly more substantial feel compared to the Xinhai. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The KTT Purple Star comes in at $4.88 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
The Purple Star switch is known for its low-pitched sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is soothing to the ears. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch offers a clacky sound that is sharp, snappy, and percussive, giving a distinct crispness to each keystroke. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference, with the Purple Star offering a more subdued sound while the Xinhai provides a more lively and vibrant auditory experience.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Purple Star switch is described as mild and easy-to-press, offering a gentle typing experience with minimal resistance. This makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing fatigue during long typing sessions. In contrast, the Xinhai switch is characterized as bouncy and creamy, providing a spring-like feedback and a smooth, buttery typing sensation. Both switches offer their unique tactile feedback, with the Purple Star leaning towards a softer touch and the Xinhai offering a more lively and elastic feel.
In conclusion, the Purple Star switch excels in providing a low-pitched sound profile and a mild, easy-to-press typing experience, making it a suitable choice for light typists seeking comfort and ease of use. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch stands out with its clacky sound and bouncy, creamy feel, catering to those who prefer a more lively and vibrant typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel, with both switches offering high-quality performance in their respective characteristics.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Purple Star and the HMX Xinhai linear switches, consider your preference for typing experience. If you value a light and smooth typing feel with easy key presses, the Purple Star with its 50g bottom-out force and mild, easy-to-press characteristics may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a unique acoustics profile with a softer sound and bouncy, creamy feel that provides a spring-like feedback sensation, the Xinhai with its 45g bottom-out force and distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance may be more appealing. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall feel and sound you desire in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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