TTC Silent Frozen (V2) vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) and the HMX Xinhai, both linear switches. The Silent Frozen (V2) stands out for its quiet sound profile and smooth, pillowy feel, making it ideal for those seeking a low-pitched, creamy typing experience. On the other hand, the Xinhai boasts a unique construction with a PA12 top housing for softer acoustics and a POM stem for a crisp, higher-pitched resonance, offering a blend of sophistication and precision. While these general pointers can help guide your decision, diving deeper into the characteristics and individual preferences will ultimately help you determine the best switch for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
39g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
43g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Silver white spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) and the HMX Xinhai both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This makes them ideal for switches with RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows the light to shine through. However, the Silent Frozen (V2) and the Xinhai differ in their bottom housing materials. The Silent Frozen (V2) utilizes polycarbonate for the bottom housing as well, while the Xinhai uses nylon. The nylon bottom housing of the Xinhai produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the crisper sound of the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Silent Frozen (V2).
Despite their differences in bottom housing material, both the Silent Frozen (V2) and the Xinhai share the qualities of a polycarbonate top housing. This means that when pressing down on a key, you will feel and hear the impact created by the bottom housing material, whether it be polycarbonate or nylon. The difference in sound profile will be more noticeable when releasing the key, as the top housing material has a greater impact on the sound in this moment. The stiffer polycarbonate of both switches creates a clear and resonant sound, while the softer nylon in the Xinhai bottom housing absorbs more sound for a duller and rounder effect.
In conclusion, the choice between the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) and the HMX Xinhai will come down to personal preference in sound profile. The polycarbonate top housing in both switches offers a similar sharp and clear sound, while the bottom housing materials provide a different depth and fullness to the sound. Whether you prefer a crisper sound profile with the Silent Frozen (V2) or a deeper sound with the Xinhai, the housing materials play a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience and sound of these switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is evident that both switches fall under the lighter category. The Silent Frozen (V2) has a slightly higher actuation force of 39 grams compared to the Xinhai's 37 grams, but a lower bottom out force of 43 grams compared to the Xinhai's 45 grams. Both switches provide a light typing experience, making them suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch. The differences in force between the two switches are minimal, so users can expect similar results in terms of typing feel and responsiveness. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of weight and typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Silent Frozen (V2) 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 range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for their quick response times. However, the slight difference of 0.1 mm between the two may be noticeable to some users. Gamers who prioritize speed and responsiveness may prefer the HMX Xinhai with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a slightly deeper key press may lean towards the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for key feel and response.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Silent Frozen (V2) has an MSRP of $8.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Frozen (V2) for $5.55.
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 TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched profile, providing a deep and mellow tone with a muted sound, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch offers a more clacky sound with a sharp and snappy tone, giving a crisp and bright auditory feedback. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference, with the Silent Frozen (V2) being more suited for a subtle and quiet environment, while the Xinhai providing a more striking and percussive sound.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch is described as creamy, buttery, feathery, subtle, and polished, offering a smooth, effortless, and refined typing experience with a light actuation force and reduced friction. Conversely, the HMX Xinhai linear switch is characterized by its bouncy and creamy feel, providing a spring-like feedback and a silky sensation for effortless keystrokes. Both switches offer a pleasant typing experience with different tactile feedback, catering to varied preferences in terms of key feel and responsiveness.
In conclusion, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) and the HMX Xinhai linear switches present distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Silent Frozen (V2) excels in providing a quiet and smooth typing experience with a deep and muted sound profile, the Xinhai stands out for its clacky and bouncy feel coupled with a crisp and bright sound. Choosing between the two would depend on individual preferences for sound and key feel, with both switches offering high-quality performance and subjective qualities that cater to different typing preferences. Ultimately, selecting either switch will result in a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience based on the desired sound and feel characteristics.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch or the HMX Xinhai linear switch, you should first evaluate your preferences regarding sound and feel. If you prioritize a quiet typing experience with a thocky, low-pitched, and muted sound profile, as well as a creamy, buttery, feathery, subtle, and polished feel, then the Silent Frozen (V2) switch is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clacky sound profile and a bouncy, creamy feel, the Xinhai switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style to ensure an optimal keyboard experience.
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