TTC Silent Red vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the TTC Silent Red and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Silent Red and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) both offer unique advantages that cater to different preferences and environments. The Silent Red switches shine in settings where noise control is paramount, providing a buttery smooth and muted typing experience that makes them an ideal choice for office environments or shared living spaces. Their consistent feel and padded bottom-out ensure maximum comfort during extended typing sessions. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) appeals to those who appreciate a more substantial tactile feedback; featuring a unique PA12 top housing, these switches deliver a softer acoustic profile paired with a crisp resonance courtesy of their POM stem. While the Silent Reds prioritize quietude and comfort, the Xinhai (Heavy) stands out with its sophisticated sound and immediate responsiveness. Ultimately, although both switches are linear variations, which promises smooth keystrokes without tactile bumps, they serve very different user needs. 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
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
The TTC Silent Red and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches utilize different materials for their top housings, resulting in distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Silent Red's polycarbonate top housing contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, due to the stiffness of the material. Polycarbonate’s translucency also enhances RGB lighting effects, making it visually appealing for users interested in illuminated setups. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) features a nylon top housing, which is known for producing deeper, fuller sounds. Nylon, being a softer plastic, tends to absorb sound more effectively, resulting in a rounder and less pronounced auditory feedback compared to the Silent Red. This divergence in top housing materials distinctly influences the overall auditory and tactile experience of each switch.
However, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which harmonizes some of their sound characteristics. The nylon material in both the Silent Red and Xinhai (Heavy) contributes to a deeper, more rounded sound profile that enhances the bottom-out feel when a key is pressed. This element of both designs promotes a similar typing experience on the low end, where the softer properties of nylon can create a cushioned feel as each key is engaged. As a result, while the auditory experiences differ due to the top housing materials, the bottom housing's shared nylon composition effectively bridges a commonality in sound absorption and tactile responsiveness.
In conclusion, while the TTC Silent Red and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) differ in their top housing materials—polycarbonate versus nylon—their bottom housings are identical, both utilizing nylon. This duality in materials leads to a unique contrast in sound profiles when pressed versus released. Users can expect a clearer and more resonant sound from the Silent Red due to its polycarbonate top, while the Xinhai (Heavy) emphasizes a warmer, fuller sound due to its nylon top housing. However, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures that both switches offer a pleasant typing experience characterized by a soft and deep sound, highlighting how different materials can yield varied acoustic results while still producing similar outcomes in other respects.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Silent Red linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, there are some notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Silent Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to press and better suited for long typing sessions or gaming marathons where minimal fatigue is desired. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch features a firmer actuation force of 55 grams, providing a stronger push feel that appeals to users who favor a more substantial typing experience. When it comes to bottom out force, the Silent Red reaches 63.5 grams, whereas the Xinhai (Heavy) slightly lessens the load at 62.5 grams. Consequently, while both switches offer a different tactile experience, the Silent Red is the lighter option overall, making it ideal for prolonged use, while the Xinhai (Heavy) caters to preference for a heftier feel. Together, these characteristics ensure that users can choose a switch that aligns with their specific typing needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Silent Red linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, the Silent Red measures 3.7 mm, while the Xinhai (Heavy) is slightly shorter at 3.4 mm. This makes the Silent Red the option for those who prefer a fuller, more pronounced keystroke, as it provides a deeper travel characteristic that some users find more satisfying when typing or gaming. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), with its shorter travel distance, may appeal more to gamers looking for quicker response times and a snappier keypress. While both switches are within the current trend of shorter travel distances, the Silent Red's longer travel provides a more traditional feel, contrasting with the Xinhai's more rapid actuation. This distinction can aid users in choosing between a more robust typing experience and a fast, reactive performance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Silent Red has an MSRP of $5.28 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Red for $4.38.
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 it comes to sound, the TTC Silent Red linear switch excels with its muted sound profile, designed specifically for quiet environments such as offices or shared living spaces. This switch minimizes the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards, allowing for a more discreet typing experience. In contrast, the sound characteristics of the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) are less defined in the available information, leaving us unable to make a direct comparison. However, its unique PA12 top housing suggests it aims for softer acoustics, which may provide a different auditory experience, though the specific sound signature remains unspecified.
In terms of feel, the Silent Red is celebrated for its buttery, mild, and polished characteristics, delivering a smooth and fluid keystroke that feels effortless. The refined finish enhances key travel and minimizes friction, contributing to an overall comfortable typing sensation. In contrast, there is no specific information available regarding the feel of the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch. As a result, we cannot establish its tactile qualities or how they might compare to the Silent Red, leaving its feel to be a mystery.
Ultimately, while the TTC Silent Red linear switch stands out for its quiet performance and smooth feel, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) remains a more enigmatic option. If you prioritize a silent yet polished typing experience, the Silent Red is a clear choice. However, for those open to exploring the Xinhai (Heavy), further insights into its sound and tactile feedback may be necessary to fully understand its performance. Both switches may cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community, and ultimately, personal testing will offer the best clues to their comparative value.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the TTC Silent Red linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch largely hinges on your specific typing preferences and environment. If you prioritize a quiet typing experience, particularly in shared workspaces or environments where noise levels need to be minimized, the Silent Red is the superior option. Its muted sound profile ensures that your keystrokes won't disturb those around you, while its buttery and polished feel offers a smooth and enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, if you're looking for a switch that combines a heavier actuation with a more distinct acoustic profile, then the Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch is an excellent choice. With its unique materials that contribute to a higher-pitched resonance, it delivers a balance of performance and sophistication that can enhance your typing experience, especially if you appreciate a more tactile engagement with your keyboard. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your priorities: choose Silent Reds for their quiet and smooth operation, or opt for Xinhai (Heavy) switches if you seek a crisper sound and a heftier feel.
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