TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch for your typing needs, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) present two compelling options that cater to different preferences. The Silent Bluish White (V2) is renowned for its medium tactile feel, offering a satisfying resistance that enhances typing precision while maintaining a remarkably quiet operation; thus, making it an ideal choice for those who work in shared or office environments. On the other hand, the Xinhai (Heavy) stands out with its heavier actuation and unique construction, combining a PA12 top housing that promotes softer acoustics with a POM stem that delivers crisp feedback, making it perfect for users who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke in their typing experience. While both switches offer high performance and distinct characteristics, their differences cater to different typing environments and user preferences. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
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
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), the most notable difference lies in the composition of their top housings. The Silent Bluish White (V2) utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffer structure. This rigidity contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile, enhancing the clarity of each keystroke. The translucency of polycarbonate is particularly advantageous for RGB lighting applications, as it allows for a vibrant illumination effect. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) features a nylon top housing, a material that historically lends itself to a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon’s softness allows it to absorb sound, resulting in a more muted sound profile when typing. Thus, the difference in top housing material significantly affects the auditory experience of each switch.
Both switches share nylon as the material for their bottom houses, leading to some sonic similarities between the two models. The properties of nylon—its ability to soften sound and generate a rounded output—ensures that both the Silent Bluish White (V2) and the Xinhai (Heavy) will provide a more substantial auditory experience upon key compression. As both bottom housings are constructed from the same material, the foundational impact on the bottom-out sound and tactile feel will remain uniform across both models. This dual use of nylon in the bottom housing indicates that, while top housing materials diverge, the inherent characteristics that nylon brings contribute significantly to the overall typing sensation of both switches.
Ultimately, while the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) exhibit contrasting sound profiles due to their differing top housing materials, their shared nylon bottom housings harmonize the typing experience. Users can expect a vibrant and resonant sound when engaging with the polycarbonate top of the Silent Bluish White (V2), whereas the Xinhai (Heavy) provides a warmer, more subdued auditory experience due to its top housing construction. In a practical sense, if you're seeking a switch that combines clarity with warmth, the contrasting materials will produce an overall dynamic interaction whether you’re letting go of a key or bottoming out. Despite the differences, the similarities in the nylon bottom housing promise a cohesive typing feedback and result in a fulfilling experience across both models.
Weight
In comparing the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch with the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, we can see distinct differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Silent Bluish White (V2) features a light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a lighter keypress for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience that some users might find preferable. Thus, for those seeking a lighter switch, the Silent Bluish White (V2) is the better option, while fans of a more robust feel may gravitate towards the Xinhai (Heavy) switch. Overall, these differences in actuation and bottom out forces cater to varying user preferences in typing feel and endurance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, it is clear that the Silent Bluish White (V2) offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) features a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This difference of just 0.1 mm might seem minor, but it can impact the overall typing experience. For users who prefer a tactile feedback or a more substantial feel when pressing keys, the Silent Bluish White (V2) may be the better choice due to its greater depth. Conversely, the Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, with its shorter travel distance, could cater to those looking for quicker actuation and faster response times, which are often desirable for gaming. Ultimately, while both switches fall into a range where shorter distances are gaining popularity, the Silent Bluish White (V2) stands out as the more robust option in terms of travel distance.
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 $5.15.
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 Silent Bluish White (V2) is characterized by its muted acoustics, generating a softer and quieter typing experience compared to more traditional mechanical switches. This muted profile minimizes the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards, making it highly suitable for environments where noise is a concern, such as offices or shared living spaces. In contrast, the sound profile of the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) has not been explicitly detailed, leaving its acoustic characteristics somewhat unknown. However, due to its unique PA12 top housing aiming for softer acoustics, it might also lean towards a quieter sound, though without definite descriptors.
In terms of feel, the Silent Bluish White (V2) offers a range of tactile sensations that can be described as buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished. This switch provides a smooth and fluid keystroke experience while maintaining a gentle resistance that makes it approachable to a wide range of users. The tactile bump is present but not overly pronounced, giving it a refined and silky typing experience. On the other hand, the feel of the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) is not specified in the provided information, so its tactile characteristics remain unknown. However, given its design intent, it might offer a unique typing sensation distinctly different from the Bluish White.
In conclusion, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) excels in sound and feel with its muted acoustics and versatile tactile profile, making it a great choice for a variety of typing environments. The HMX Xinhai (Heavy) offers a subtle sophistication and precise performance, although its specific sound and feel details are not available. Users who seek a quiet typing option with a refined feel may find the Silent Bluish White (V2) particularly appealing, while those curious about the unique offerings of the Xinhai switch may need to explore further for its tactile and acoustic details.
Conclusion
In conclusion, your choice between the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing environment. If you value a quiet, subtle typing experience and find yourself in an office or shared living space, the Silent Bluish White (V2) is an ideal choice due to its muted sound profile and buttery, polished feel. These characteristics make it approachable for long typing sessions while providing a satisfying tactile response without disturbing those around you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier keystroke with more pronounced resistance and appreciate a distinctively crisp acoustic profile, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) will likely suit your needs better. The 62.5 grams of force offers a robust typing experience, making it perfect for those who enjoy a firmer feel under their fingertips and prefer shared environments where a bit of sound is welcome. Ultimately, consider what you prioritize in terms of sound, feel, and the specific environments where you'll be using your keyboard to make the best decision between these two excellent switches.
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