KTT Sea Salt Lemon vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the KTT Sea Salt Lemon and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the characteristics of various options, and two compelling choices are the KTT Sea Salt Lemon and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), both of which belong to the linear switch category. The Sea Salt Lemon is celebrated for its buttery smooth typing experience, courtesy of its progressive spring and KTT's innovative dry-lube design, creating a typing sensation that falls into the 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', and 'Mild' categories. This makes it an excellent choice for those who value a smooth, satisfying keystroke without any tactile feedback. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) offers a heavier touch with its unique PA12 top housing that contributes to a softer acoustics profile, paired with a POM stem for a crisp, higher-pitched resonance. This sophisticated design appeals to users seeking precise performance with a subtly elevated typing experience. Both switches have their unique strengths, inviting you to consider your preferences in terms of feedback and 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
13mm progressive spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Sea Salt Lemon and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches, striking differences emerge, particularly in the top housing. The Sea Salt Lemon features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer nature, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. As polycarbonate is also translucent, it enhances the visual appeal of the switch, especially when RGB lighting is involved, producing a vivid and illuminated effect. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) utilizes nylon for its top housing, a material that is softer and more absorbent. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, characterized by a more muted and rounded auditory experience. Consequently, these differences in top housing material directly influence the auditory feedback during key releases, with polycarbonate providing clarity and brightness while nylon yields richness and warmth.
The bottom housings of both switches, however, share the same material: nylon. In this case, the bottom housing's characteristics blend across both models, providing a consistent typing experience. As nylon is known for its sound-absorbing properties, both the Sea Salt Lemon and Xinhai (Heavy) exhibit a fullness and depth when bottoming out, contributing to a satisfying tactile feel regardless of the switch's top housing material. Although the Sea Salt Lemon offers a sharper sound due to its polycarbonate top, the nylon bottom ensures a robust auditory foundation that aligns with the typist's preferences for a fuller sound. Thus, both switches deliver a comparable feel during the press, thanks to their shared bottom housing material.
In essence, while the KTT Sea Salt Lemon and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) differ significantly in their top housing materials—polycarbonate versus nylon—their shared nylon bottom housing leads to a harmonized typing experience. This dichotomy allows users to experience the distinctive sound profiles of each switch: brightness from the Sea Salt Lemon and depth from the Xinhai (Heavy). Depending on the user's preferences for sound and feel, one can choose between the two while anticipating a satisfying typing experience, underscored by the consistent character imparted by the nylon bottom housing. Thus, both switches can cater to diverse tastes in auditory feedback while maintaining a solid familiarity in their overall construction.
Weight
The KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch present distinct differences in both actuation and bottom out forces, appealing to varied typing preferences. The Sea Salt Lemon has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a softer feel and longer typing sessions with less strain. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) features a stronger actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial push and tactile response in their typing experience. Thus, the Sea Salt Lemon is the lighter switch overall, while the Xinhai (Heavy) caters to users seeking a heavier switch. These differences in force type may influence user comfort and typing performance, making the choice between them largely based on personal preference.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, the Sea Salt Lemon stands out with a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Xinhai (Heavy) features a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This difference means that users of the KTT Sea Salt Lemon will experience a more traditional and deeper keystroke, which can create a more satisfying tactile feel for those who appreciate a hearty depth when typing or gaming. Conversely, the shorter 3.4 mm travel distance of the Xinhai (Heavy) switch may appeal to gamers or those who prioritize quick response times, as it allows for a more rapid activation with less distance to press down. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for depth and responsiveness, with the Sea Salt Lemon providing a longer and more substantial experience compared to the more immediate feel of 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 $3.19.
The KTT Sea Salt Lemon comes in at $2.80 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, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch produces a low-pitched, neutral tone, delivering a bass-heavy and mellow auditory experience. This sound profile is typically conducive to a pleasant typing environment, suitable for both casual and professional settings. Its balanced resonance makes it versatile for various users, whether they are newcomers or experienced typists. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch's sound characteristics are not specified, leaving an unknown variable in its acoustic profile. However, it is noteworthy that sound can substantially depend on additional factors like the keyboard build and keycap material, suggesting potential variability in the user's experience.
On the tactile front, the Sea Salt Lemon switch offers a mild feel, characterized by a gentle typing experience. This makes it approachable for a wide audience and suitable for those who prefer a more subtle feedback as they type. It strikes a balance that avoids being too pronounced or too soft, appealing to users seeking a comfortable middle ground. In comparison, the tactile feel of the Xinhai (Heavy) is not detailed, which again leaves a gap in understanding how it might measure up against the Sea Salt Lemon. Without specific descriptors, one might anticipate a more pronounced typing sensation given its heavier nature, but this remains speculative.
In conclusion, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch stands out with its low-pitched sound and mild feel, making it a great option for a variety of typing environments. While the sound profile of the Xinhai (Heavy) remains unspecified, its heavier build may suggest different user experiences, particularly in terms of feedback and auditory response. As such, users looking for buttery smoothness may find satisfaction in the Sea Salt Lemon, while those intrigued by the Xinhai's heavyweight could explore its feel and sound qualities further as they're not detailed here. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will rely on personal preference regarding sound and tactile sensations, with the Sea Salt Lemon providing a clear, comfortable option.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the KTT Sea Salt Lemon and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switches, consider your typing style and the environment in which you will be using them. If you prefer a smoother, lighter touch for a more effortless typing experience, especially if you are a beginner or frequently type for extended periods, the Sea Salt Lemon with its medium-light bottom-out force of 53 grams would be an excellent choice. Its low-pitched and neutral sound profile ensures a pleasant acoustic environment without being intrusive, making it suitable for both home and work settings. On the other hand, if you appreciate a bit more resistance while typing and seek a switch that combines sophistication with precise sound performance, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) is likely more aligned with your needs. The heavier bottom-out force of 62.5 grams provides greater tactile feedback, appealing to users who write or game with deliberation and intent. Given its higher-pitched resonance and unique acoustic profile, this switch excels in environments where clarity of sound is valued. Ultimately, your choice should be based on whether you favor a smoother and lighter experience or a more substantial and resonant feel, guiding you towards the switch that is the perfect fit for your keyboard journey.
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