HMX Xinhai (Heavy) vs. TTC Yunhai

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) and the TTC Yunhai represent two intriguing choices, each with distinct characteristics suited for different preferences. The Xinhai (Heavy) is celebrated for its robust construction, featuring a PA12 top housing that offers a subtly sophisticated acoustic profile and a POM stem that produces a crisp, higher-pitched sound. This switch caters to users seeking a firmer typing experience without sacrificing sound quality. On the other hand, the TTC Yunhai is designed for those who prefer a lighter touch; its lighter actuation force delivers a gentle, effortless feel, complemented by a deep, rounded sound that enhances the overall typing experience. While both switches are linear, making them smooth with no tactile bump, their approaches to sound and force provide significant contrasts. 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 Xinhai (Heavy) Linear

TTC Yunhai Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$7.50

$5.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX Xinhai (Heavy) and the TTC Yunhai both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, highlighting the commonality in their construction. The use of nylon as a housing material in both switches promotes a deeper and fuller sound profile, which is particularly appealing to those who seek a more acoustically rich typing experience. Both models benefit from nylon's inherent characteristics, particularly its softer nature, which contributes to sound absorption qualities. This shared material results in a sound profile that is less sharp and more rounded, ensuring that typists experience smoother keystrokes and less acoustic harshness when using either switch.

Despite the identical material composition, the impact of the housing design on the overall typing experience will differ based on the configuration. In keyboard switches, the bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the key press, while the top housing affects the sound emitted when a key is released. Although both the Xinhai (Heavy) and Yunhai are made from nylon, nuanced differences in their design or structure could yield variations in how these sound profiles manifest during use. Thus, even with similar materials, the design specifics may lead to subtle differences in tactile feedback and auditory experience when typing, stemming from the acoustic interplay between the top and bottom housings.

Ultimately, the similar use of nylon in both the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) and TTC Yunhai suggests that typists could expect comparable sound profiles from each model. However, the experience may not be entirely identical, as the impact of housing design details, such as thickness and internal geometry, can shift how sound is accentuated or dampened. Therefore, while the general acoustic character is likely to be consistent due to the shared material, the overall typing experience can still vary, providing unique attributes for each switch depending on their specific designs.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, notable differences emerge in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Xinhai (Heavy) boasts a firm actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, categorizing it as a medium-force switch. In contrast, the Yunhai is distinctly lighter, featuring an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, placing it in the light-force category. This substantial difference in force may appeal to various users: those who favor a heavier switch may find the Xinhai provides a more satisfying, tactile feedback during typing, suitable for a more substantial typing experience. Conversely, the lighter feel of the Yunhai facilitates extended typing sessions with less fatigue, making it ideal for those who require a keyboard for work or prolonged gaming. Overall, if one prefers lighter switches for comfort, the TTC Yunhai is the optimal choice, while the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) caters to those seeking a stronger, more resistant keystroke.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch to the TTC Yunhai linear switch, a notable difference emerges: the Xinhai (Heavy) has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Yunhai measures slightly longer at 3.6 mm. This 0.2 mm difference positions the Xinhai (Heavy) as the shorter option, making it potentially more appealing to gamers or those who prefer quicker response times in their typing or gaming experience. Conversely, the Yunhai, with its longer travel distance, may cater to users who appreciate a more pronounced key press, offering a deeper, more substantial feel. Therefore, selecting the Xinhai (Heavy) could provide a more responsive experience, while the Yunhai might appeal to those who prefer the tactile feedback associated with a longer travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch offers a unique acoustic experience characterized by a softer sound profile due to its PA12 top housing. This design works in tandem with the POM stem, creating a distinctively crisp and higher-pitched resonance that provides a more refined auditory feedback during typing. On the other hand, the TTC Yunhai linear switch delivers a deep, rounded sound that is well-suited for those who prefer a more muted auditory experience. Although both switches produce distinct sound profiles, they can still be complemented or altered by factors such as the keyboard build or keycap choice, allowing for a personalized auditory feel.

When it comes to the feel, the Xinhai (Heavy) is celebrated for its heftier actuation, which contributes to a satisfying tactile experience while typing. This switch's weighty nature means that each keystroke feels deliberate and grounded, enhancing overall typing precision. Conversely, the Yunhai switch is known for its incredibly light actuation force, allowing for a smoother and more effortless typing experience. This makes it especially appealing to typists who prefer a quick and gentle response, contrasting sharply with the Xinhai's more substantial typing feel.

In summary, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch excels in delivering a crisp sound and a solid, weighty typing experience, while the TTC Yunhai promises a deep auditory profile alongside an incredibly light and effortless actuation. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, you might find that while both switches offer unique experiences, they can resonate similarly in their own rights, equipped to cater to different typing styles and auditory desires.

Conclusion

To conclude, when determining whether to choose the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch or the TTC Yunhai linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal typing style and preferences. If you gravitate towards a more substantial tactile sensation with a bit more resistance, the Xinhai (Heavy) may be the ideal choice for you. With a bottom-out force of 62.5 grams, this switch provides a medium actuation that feels satisfying and controlled, making it suitable for those who appreciate a firmer key press. Additionally, its unique PA12 top housing minimizes noise, producing a softer acoustics profile, which is perfect for quieter environments. On the other hand, if you are someone who prefers a lighter, almost effortless typing experience, the TTC Yunhai might suit you better. With its lighter 50-gram actuation force, this switch enables quicker keystrokes, significantly benefiting typists who prioritize speed and fluidity, enhanced by its deep sound profile that adds a rich quality to your typing experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prefer the decisive tactile feedback of the Xinhai (Heavy) or the feather-light, rounded feedback of the Yunhai.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Xinhai (Heavy) Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

TTC Yunhai Linear

$7.50

$5.99 per 10

Learn more