TTC Silent Frozen (V2) vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two competitors that stand out in the linear category are the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy). The Silent Frozen (V2) is prized for its extremely quiet sound profile, making it ideal for users in office environments or shared spaces, while its smooth, pillowy feel enhances the typing experience, providing a muted yet satisfying tactile response. On the other hand, the Xinhai (Heavy) brings a bolder presence with a unique PA12 top housing that offers softer acoustics coupled with a POM stem, resulting in a distinctively crisp sound and a higher-pitched resonance. This switch is perfect for those who appreciate a bit more weight in their keystrokes, translating to a more precise and controlled typing experience. Considering these attributes, your choice may depend on whether you prioritize quietness and smoothness or crispness and feedback in your typing. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
39g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
43g
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
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
When examining the housing materials of the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), notable contrasts arise from their respective choices of polycarbonate and nylon, leading to distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Silent Frozen (V2) utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, which contributes to a sharper, crisper sound. This stiffer plastic promotes a clear and resonant auditory experience, particularly advantageous when using RGB lighting due to its translucent quality. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) employs nylon for both its top and bottom housings. As a softer material, nylon absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in a deeper, fuller tone that presents a duller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate variant. This distinction significantly influences how users perceive the acoustic characteristics of their switches, revealing the inherent strengths and weaknesses of each material.
The differences in housing materials not only affect sound but also impact the overall tactile feedback experienced while typing. The polycarbonate structure of the Silent Frozen (V2) provides a crisp tactile response that aligns with its higher-pitched auditory outcome. Users may find that the pronounced sound feedback of the polycarbonate housing enhances the typing experience. Meanwhile, the Xinhai (Heavy), with its nylon composition, fosters a more muted feel when typing, emphasizing comfort over pronounced auditory feedback. As such, the softer material may appeal to users seeking a more subdued and rounder feel, prioritizing a cushiony typing experience over the precise feedback offered by the stiffer polycarbonate.
Ultimately, while both switches exhibit unique qualities due to their housing materials, they can deliver a satisfying typing experience in different ways. Users seeking a clear and resonant sound can find enjoyable results with the TTC Silent Frozen (V2); transversely, those preferring a fuller, more muffled sound profile may gravitate towards the HMX Xinhai (Heavy). Although the materials are distinct, both switches cater to varying preferences—demonstrating that while polycarbonate and nylon shape their respective performances, both can lead to satisfying outcomes depending on an individual's sound and feel expectations.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, notable differences emerge in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Silent Frozen (V2) features a light actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it an ideal choice for users who prefer a more comfortable typing experience over extended periods, such as during work or long gaming sessions. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) is significantly heavier, with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams. This increased resistance offers a more substantial feel, appealing to those who appreciate a firmer keystroke. As such, users seeking a light switch would gravitate towards the Silent Frozen (V2), while those who favor a heavier touch should consider the HMX Xinhai (Heavy). Overall, the significant difference in force profiles means that these switches cater to distinct preferences in typing and gaming experiences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, we find that the Silent Frozen (V2) has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Xinhai (Heavy) measures slightly shorter at 3.4 mm. This makes the Xinhai (Heavy) the more responsive option, catering to gamers or users who prefer quick actuation for a faster response time. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen (V2), with its longer travel distance, may provide a more satisfying tactile experience for those who appreciate a deeper key press. Thus, if you lean towards responsiveness and agility in your keystrokes, the Xinhai (Heavy) would be the preferable choice, whereas the Silent Frozen (V2) would be ideal for users who favor a more substantial feel when typing.
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 $5.33.
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 $2.99.
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 evaluating the sound profile of the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch, it is characterized by a notably muted and thocky quality, producing deep, rich sounds that evoke a soft "thud" upon actuation. This low-pitched and bass-heavy nature allows for minimal noise distraction, making it an excellent choice for environments where quiet operation is prioritized. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) lacks a specific sound profile description, but its construction with a PA12 top housing is designed for softer acoustics, suggesting a focus on subtlety rather than loudness. The inherent qualities of both switches position the Silent Frozen (V2) as distinctly quieter, while the Xinhai may offer a different, potentially crisper sound that remains to be detailed.
Turning to the tactile experience, the Silent Frozen (V2) switch excels with its creamy, buttery, and feathery feel. Users can expect a pleasurable typing experience characterized by smooth and effortless key travel, creating minimal finger fatigue during extended use. The descriptions of subtle resistance and polished finish further enhance the experience by ensuring a refined interaction across the key surface. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) does not have specific tactile characteristics provided, leaving an open question as to how its heavier construction translates to the feel. While the Silent Frozen (V2) guarantees a premium tactile experience, the Xinhai's qualities remain unidentified.
In conclusion, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch stands out with its extremely quiet and deep sound profile, alongside a smooth, buttery feel that enhances typing comfort. The HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch, while potentially promising with its heavy variant construction and softer acoustics, lacks specific information on sound and feel. Overall, those seeking a tranquil and smooth typing experience will likely gravitate towards the Silent Frozen (V2), while the Xinhai's characteristics may present an interesting alternative for users intrigued by a different tactile sensation, though more details would be needed for a thorough comparison.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch largely hinges on your typing preferences and usage environment. If you prioritize a quiet typing experience, especially in shared spaces like offices or libraries, the Silent Frozen (V2) is your go-to option. Its lightweight actuation force of 43 grams, along with its creamy and buttery feel, ensures that you can type effortlessly for long periods without causing strain to your fingers. Additionally, its muted thocky sound profile will keep your productivity high without disturbing those around you. Conversely, if you enjoy a more tactile feedback with a robust and slightly firmer feel, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) may be more suitable. With a heavier actuation force of 62.5 grams and precise performance, this switch provides a satisfying resistance that many typists appreciate, particularly for gaming or tasks that require deliberate keystrokes. The Xinhai’s refined acoustics add a layer of sophistication to your typing experience, making it ideal for those who value both sound and performance. Ultimately, consider what factors—such as sound level, key resistance, and overall feel—are most important to you, as these will guide you towards the switch that best fits your needs.
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