KTT Wine Red vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the KTT Wine Red and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Wine Red and the HMX Xinhai mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes apparent that both offer unique features and qualities that cater to different preferences. The Wine Red switch is praised for its pillowy light type feel and deep, rich sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a more bassy and low-pitched typing experience. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch stands out with its softer acoustics profile and distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance, appealing to individuals who enjoy a bouncy, clacky, and creamy typing sensation. Choosing between these two switches ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style. 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
44g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
Progressive spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Wine Red and the HMX Xinhai, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, ideal for those seeking a more distinct typing experience. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it perfect for showcasing RGB lighting effects, adding a visually appealing element to the switches. Therefore, users can expect similar acoustic and aesthetic results from both switches when it comes to their top housing material.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Wine Red features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to the clear and resonant sound profile of the switch. On the other hand, the Xinhai utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than polycarbonate, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switch. This contrast in bottom housing materials can significantly impact the overall typing experience and sound produced by each switch.
Overall, while both the KTT Wine Red and the HMX Xinhai share polycarbonate top housing, their differences lie in the bottom housing material. The split between the qualities of the two housing materials affects the sound and feel of the switches differently. While the top housing dictates the sound when letting go of a key, the bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. Users can choose between a sharper, clearer sound profile with the Wine Red's polycarbonate bottom housing or a deeper, fuller sound profile with the Xinhai's nylon bottom housing based on their preferences.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Wine Red linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch differ in their weight. The Wine Red switch has a higher actuation force of 44 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a medium-light switch. In contrast, the Xinhai switch has a lower actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, classifying it as a lighter switch. The Wine Red switch provides a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the Xinhai switch. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Xinhai for longer typing periods or gaming sessions, while others may opt for the heavier actuation force of the Wine Red for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Wine Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it a more traditional option. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Gamers may prefer the Xinhai for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more substantial keypress may opt for the Wine Red. Both switches offer a smooth linear feel, but the Xinhai provides a slightly quicker actuation due to its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and keypress feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The KTT Wine Red comes in at $2.71 per 10 switches.
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 KTT Wine Red linear switch offers a deep, rich, and bassy profile with low-pitched tones during key presses, providing a satisfying auditory experience. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai linear switch produces a sharp, clacky sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive, offering a distinctively different acoustic profile. Choosing between the two switches for sound primarily depends on personal preference, with the Wine Red delivering a more bass-heavy tone while the Xinhai provides a brighter and snappier sound.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the KTT Wine Red switch is known for its pillowy light feel, offering a comfortable and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai switch is described as bouncy and creamy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation with a smooth and buttery typing experience. Whether you prefer a light and comfortable feel like the Wine Red or a more lively and elastic feedback like the Xinhai, the choice ultimately comes down to individual typing preferences and comfort levels.
In conclusion, the KTT Wine Red and HMX Xinhai switches offer unique and subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Wine Red excels in providing a deep and rich sound profile along with a pillowy light type feel, the Xinhai stands out with its sharp and clacky sound and bouncy, creamy typing experience. Both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences, so selecting the right switch ultimately depends on individual taste and typing style. Regardless of your choice, you can expect a high-quality typing experience from either switch.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the KTT Wine Red linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, you should consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a deeper, richer sound profile with a pillowy light typing feel, the Wine Red may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a sharper and snappier clacky sound profile, and a bouncy or creamy typing feel, the Xinhai switch could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your individual typing style and the overall typing experience you are seeking.
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