TTC Speed Silver vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the TTC Speed Silver and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Speed Silver and the HMX Xinhai both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Speed Silver is ideal for those seeking a fast and precise typing experience, thanks to its light-medium resistance and reduced travel distance for quick actuation. On the other hand, the Xinhai stands out for its unique PA12 top housing and POM stem, creating a softer acoustics profile and distinctively crisp sound. While the Speed Silver is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Polished', the Xinhai is labeled as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', 'Creamy'. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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 Speed Silver and the HMX Xinhai utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This results in a more clear and resonant sound, especially beneficial for switches with RGB lighting as polycarbonate's translucency enhances the effect. The similarity in top housing material ensures that users can expect a similar auditory experience when typing on both switches, with the only notable differences lying in other components of the switches.
On the other hand, while both switches feature a nylon bottom housing, they offer distinct typing experiences. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile as its softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This means that users can expect a more muted and softer typing experience with both the Speed Silver and Xinhai switches due to their shared nylon bottom housing. Despite the differences in top housing materials, the similar bottom housing material ensures consistency in sound quality and feel when pressing down on the switches.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings in both the TTC Speed Silver and the HMX Xinhai contributes to a well-rounded typing experience. While the top housings impact the sound when pressing and letting go of a key, the bottom housings play a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel. The differences in top housing materials may result in subtle variations in sound profiles between the two switches, but the shared nylon bottom housing ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound absorption and softness.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Speed Silver linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is evident that the Xinhai is the lighter option, with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. On the other hand, the Speed Silver is slightly heavier, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. Both switches offer a smooth linear typing experience, but the Xinhai provides a lighter touch, making it ideal for those who prefer a softer feel while typing. In contrast, the Speed Silver offers a bit more resistance, which may be preferred by those who desire a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference, with weight playing a significant role in determining the typing feel that is most comfortable for each individual.
Travel distance
The TTC Speed Silver linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the keys travel when pressed. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to other switches on the market, making them ideal for fast typists who prefer a shorter key press. The similar travel distance of both switches ensures that users will get consistent results in terms of key response and overall typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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 Speed Silver offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for most users, whether they are beginners or advanced typists. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai switch is characterized by a clacky sound that is sharp, snappy, and percussive. The choice of board and keycaps can also influence the overall sound of the switches.
In terms of feel, the TTC Speed Silver switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, with a safe, middle-ground level of resistance and a smooth key travel. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai switch offers a bouncy and creamy feel, providing a spring-like feedback sensation and a smooth, buttery typing experience. These qualities contribute to a distinct typing feel for each switch.
Overall, if you prefer a fast and precise typing experience with a neutral sound and a mild, polished feel, the TTC Speed Silver switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a unique blend of softer acoustics, crisp, higher-pitched resonance, a clacky sound, and a bouncy, creamy feel, then the HMX Xinhai switch would be the perfect option. Both switches offer different subjective qualities that cater to specific preferences, so choosing between them would depend on your personal typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Speed Silver linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you value a fast and precise typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force, opt for the Speed Silver. This switch is great for those who prefer a neutral sound profile and a mild, polished typing feel. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch that offers a unique blend of softer acoustics with a distinctively crisp sound and a lighter bottom out force, then the Xinhai would be a suitable choice. This switch provides a clacky sound profile and a bouncy, creamy typing feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what typing experience you prioritize and the type of sound and feel that best suits your preferences.
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