KTT Semi Mute vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the KTT Semi Mute and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Semi Mute and the HMX Xinhai mechanical keyboard switches, both offer distinct features that cater to different preferences. The Semi Mute switch is ideal for those who prioritize a noise-free environment, making it perfect for late-night typing sessions. With its linear actuation and advanced dampening technology, the Semi Mute switch provides a comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch boasts a unique construction with a PA12 top housing for softer acoustics and a POM stem for a crisp, higher-pitched sound. This switch offers a blend of sophistication and precise performance. While the Semi Mute switch is described as 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Muted', 'Neutral', the Xinhai switch is characterized as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', '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
58g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Semi Mute and the HMX Xinhai both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that are intended to have RGB lighting. However, the bottom housing of the Semi Mute is also made of polycarbonate, while the Xinhai utilizes a nylon bottom housing. This means that typing on the Semi Mute will produce a consistent sharper sound on both key press and key release, while the Xinhai will offer a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the absorbent nature of nylon.
In terms of sound characteristics, both switches benefit from the properties of polycarbonate but differ in the material used for the bottom housing. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housing of the Semi Mute results in a more consistent and clear sound profile. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Xinhai absorbs more sound, creating a deeper and rounder tone when typing. This contrast in sound characteristics between the two switches showcases how different housing materials can impact the overall typing experience and sound feedback.
The split between the top and bottom housing material in the KTT Semi Mute and HMX Xinhai translates to different tactile experiences for users. The impact of the bottom housing material is more noticeable during key press, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing material has a greater influence on the sound produced when releasing a key. This distinction highlights the importance of housing materials in determining the overall sound profile, feel, and typing experience of mechanical switches like the KTT Semi Mute and HMX Xinhai.
Weight
The KTT Semi Mute linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch differ in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Semi Mute has a higher actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, making it a medium-weight option. In contrast, the Xinhai has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter choice. The difference in weight between the two switches can impact typing comfort and experience. Some may prefer the lighter Xinhai switch for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer the heavier Semi Mute for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the KTT Semi Mute linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is clear that the Xinhai has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Semi Mute's 4 mm. The Xinhai's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Semi Mute's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more traditional and hearty typing experience. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their travel distance, catering to individual preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on whether you prefer a shorter, more responsive keystroke or a slightly longer, more pronounced typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Semi Mute has an MSRP of $3.97 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi Mute for $3.55.
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.
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
In terms of sound, the KTT Semi Mute switch offers a muted and neutral sound profile, minimizing noise for a quieter typing experience suitable for any environment. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai switch is described as clacky, producing a sharp and percussive sound when pressed. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Semi Mute focusing on a noise-free typing experience while the Xinhai provides a more crisp and bright sound.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Semi Mute switch is noted for its buttery and mild typing experience, offering a smooth and uniform keystroke sensation that is gentle and approachable for most users. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai switch provides a bouncy and creamy feel, giving a spring-like feedback with a smooth and silky typing experience that feels like gliding across the keys with ease. Both switches offer unique tactile responses that cater to different typing preferences, with the Semi Mute prioritizing a seamless and effortless feel while the Xinhai delivers a lively and elastic feedback.
Considering the available information, the KTT Semi Mute switch and the HMX Xinhai switch offer contrasting subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Semi Mute excels in providing a noise-free and buttery typing experience, while the Xinhai stands out for its clacky sound and bouncy, creamy feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing sensation, users can choose between the Semi Mute for a quieter and smoother experience or the Xinhai for a more percussive and bouncy feel. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, providing a satisfying typing experience based on personal preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Semi Mute and the HMX Xinhai linear switches, consider your preferences for typing experience and sound. If you value a noise-free environment and enjoy a comfortable and gratifying typing feel, the Semi Mute with its medium bottom out force may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and appreciate a unique blend of subtle sophistication and precise performance, the Xinhai switch with its distinctive crisp, higher-pitched sound and bouncy or creamy feel might be more suited to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preferences for sound and typing sensation.
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