HMX Twilight vs. TTC Yunhai

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Twilight and TTC Yunhai linear switches present two distinct experiences that cater to different user preferences. The HMX Twilight is celebrated for its extended 3.85mm travel distance, providing a quieter typing experience while still retaining the signature clacky characteristics typical of HMX switches. This makes it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a tactile feedback while keeping noise to a minimum. On the other hand, the TTC Yunhai stands out with its light actuation force and deep, rounded sound profile, offering a gentle and effortless typing experience. This switch is ideal for typists seeking a smooth, uninterrupted feel without the distraction of excessive sound. Both switches deliver unique benefits that appeal to different typing styles and environments; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Twilight Linear

TTC Yunhai Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$7.50

$5.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX Twilight and the TTC Yunhai housings both feature nylon, a widely favored material in the keyboard switch community. This choice of nylon contributes to a characteristic sound profile that is deeper and fuller compared to switches made from harder plastics. Both the Twilight and the Yunhai have nylon tops and bottoms, leading to similar acoustic properties. As a softer plastic, nylon effectively absorbs sound, resulting in a duller and rounder audio experience during typing. The advantage of using nylon for both switch components means users can expect consistent sound quality across the entire keypress.

Both switches' top and bottom housings are made of nylon, which means users will experience a cohesive typing feel and sound when interacting with both the Twilight and the Yunhai. This uniformity means that the impact of housing material on sound and feel is uniformly distributed in both switches. When typing, individuals will notice that the bottom housing predominantly influences the bottom-out sound and sensation, while the top housing affects the sound produced when releasing the key. Since both switches share identical materials, the overall acoustic performance of the Twilight and Yunhai will be similar, resulting in an enjoyable typing experience.

While nylon has been chosen for both models, the most critical aspect of the comparison lies in the possibility of differing switch internals, which can influence how the materials manifest in terms of tactile feedback and sound profiles during use. If either model were to incorporate varied internals with the same nylon housing, the resultant typing experience could diverge significantly. Nonetheless, given that both the HMX Twilight and the TTC Yunhai utilize nylon for all housing components, users are likely to find a satisfying, homogeneous sound and feel, highlighting the benefits of nylon's acoustic properties in both products. This alignment suggests that users seeking richer sound profiles may lean favorably towards either option without notable detriments in overall performance.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Twilight linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, we find that both switches exhibit the same actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom-out force of 50 grams, making them both relatively light options for users. This similarity in force specifications means that users can expect a similar typing experience with both switches, ideal for long sessions of typing or gaming without excessive strain. The light actuation and bottom-out forces contribute to a gentle and comfortable keystroke, appealing to those who prefer a softer touch. Therefore, whether you choose the Twilight or the Yunhai, you can expect an equally pleasant and easy typing experience, catering well to users looking for lighter switches.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Twilight linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, the differences are notable. The Twilight switch has a travel distance of 3.85 mm, while the Yunhai switch features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that if you're looking for a more responsive option, the Yunhai switch would be preferable due to its shorter travel, catering to the needs of gamers who prioritize quicker actuation times. On the other hand, the Twilight switch may appeal to those who appreciate a more pronounced feel and depth in their key presses, making it suitable for users who favor a fuller typing experience. Overall, if you prefer the traditional feel and a bit of extra depth, the HMX Twilight is the better choice, whereas the TTC Yunhai is ideal for those seeking a snappier response.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Twilight linear switch produces a slightly quieter sound signature due to its extended 3.85mm travel distance, which means each keystroke is less jarring while still retaining some of the characteristic clacky qualities typical of HMX switches. This makes it suitable for environments where noise reduction is valued without completely sacrificing a tactile auditory feedback. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai linear switch offers a deep, rounded sound profile that resonates more with each keystroke. Its unique sound is enhanced by the light actuation force, creating a typing experience that feels effortless and pleasing but may be louder compared to the Twilight. It’s important to note that sound can be influenced by additional factors like the keyboard construction and keycap material.

When it comes to feel, the HMX Twilight switch provides a smooth typing experience, characterized by its longer travel distance which can lead to a more deliberate keystroke. This switch gives typists a sense of control while typing, ensuring that each press is purposeful. On the other hand, the TTC Yunhai switch stands out with its incredibly light actuation force, allowing for a feather-light typing experience. This effortless action can feel luxurious for regular typists, as it reduces fatigue during long typing sessions, appealing to those who favor a quicker, lighter touch.

In conclusion, while the HMX Twilight and TTC Yunhai linear switches exhibit distinct differences in their sound profiles and tactile experiences, both offer unique advantages that cater to different preferences. The Twilight’s quieter sound and controlled keystrokes contrast nicely with the Yunhai's deep sound and light actuation force, meaning that regardless of which switch you choose, you can enjoy a satisfying typing experience. These variations provide typists with the opportunity to select a switch that best aligns with their personal preferences, ensuring a tailored mechanical keyboard setup.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the HMX Twilight linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and the specific typing experience you're seeking. If you value a slightly quieter typing experience while enjoying a longer travel distance, the HMX Twilight might be the better option for you. Its 3.85mm travel not only enhances the tactile feedback but also contributes to a softer sound, making it suitable for environments where noise levels need to be minimized. On the other hand, if you prefer a typing experience that is effortlessly light and characterized by a deep, rounded sound profile, the TTC Yunhai switch is the way to go. Its deep sound adds a unique auditory charm, while its gentle actuation force makes typing a breeze, ideal for long typing sessions or casual usage. Ultimately, consider what aspects matter most to you—be it sound, feel, or travel distance—when making your decision, and you will find the perfect switch to enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Twilight Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

TTC Yunhai Linear

$7.50

$5.99 per 10

Learn more