TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) and the HMX Xinhai mechanical keyboard switches, there are distinct differences to consider. The Silent Bluish White (V2) is a tactile switch known for its medium tactility, providing a satisfying level of resistance for precise and comfortable typing. Despite its tactile feel, these switches are designed to be quiet, making them ideal for office or shared living space use. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai is a linear switch crafted with a unique PA12 top housing for softer acoustics and a POM stem for crisp, higher-pitched resonance. Known for its blend of sophistication and performance, the Xinhai offers a different typing experience compared to the Silent Bluish White. 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
42g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) and the HMX Xinhai utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiff plastic, which enhances clarity and resonance in the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting. While both switches share this same material for their top housing, the difference may lie in the design and layout of the housing itself, affecting the overall sound and feel of the switch.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) and the HMX Xinhai feature nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to other materials. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use this material for the bottom housing. Despite both switches using nylon for their bottom housing, slight variations in design and construction may lead to nuanced differences in terms of typing experience and sound output.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches plays a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of the typing experience. While the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) and the HMX Xinhai both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, the specific design and implementation of these materials may lead to subtle variations in sound profile and typing feel between the two switches. However, users can expect similar results in terms of sharper, higher-pitched sound from the polycarbonate top housing and deeper, fuller sound from the nylon bottom housing in both switches, providing a satisfying typing experience overall.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is clear that both switches have relatively light weights. The Silent Bluish White (V2) has an actuation force of 42 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. Both switches provide a light typing experience, which is ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, if one prefers a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, they may opt for options with heavier forces. Overall, both switches offer similar results due to their light actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, slightly longer than the HMX Xinhai linear switch which has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Despite the small difference of 0.1 mm, this can still impact the feel and responsiveness of the keyboard. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Xinhai switch, while those who enjoy a more deep and satisfying press may gravitate towards the Silent Bluish White (V2) switch. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular in the keyboard market. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key press feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Bluish White (V2) for $5.35.
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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switch offers a muted typing experience, producing a softer and quieter sound that minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai switch has a clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. The choice between these switches will come down to personal preference, with the Silent Bluish White switches being ideal for those looking for a quieter typing experience, while the Xinhai switches are perfect for those who enjoy a crisper and more percussive sound while typing.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switch provides a buttery and mild typing experience, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke while maintaining a gentle resistance. These switches also have a subtle and polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai switch offers a bouncy and creamy typing experience, providing a spring-like feedback sensation and a silky smooth keystroke that effortlessly melts into each press. Whether you prefer the more subtle and polished feel of the Silent Bluish White switches or the bouncy and creamy sensation of the Xinhai switches will depend on your personal typing style and preferences.
In conclusion, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) and HMX Xinhai switches offer distinct sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a quieter typing experience with a buttery and polished feel, the Silent Bluish White switches are the way to go. On the other hand, if you enjoy a crisper and more percussive sound with a bouncy and creamy typing sensation, the HMX Xinhai switches will provide a more lively typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance and it will come down to individual preference when choosing between the two.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a satisfying resistance and a quiet typing experience, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) would be an excellent choice for you. With its medium tactility and muted sound profile, these switches are perfect for office or shared living spaces where noise is a concern. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a unique blend of sophistication and performance, the HMX Xinhai would be a great option. With its softer acoustics and crisp, higher-pitched resonance, the Xinhai offers a different typing sensation compared to the Silent Bluish White. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your preference for tactile feedback and sound profile. Consider your typing style and environment before making a decision on which switch suits you best.
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