KTT Darling vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
In the world of mechanical keyboards, two standout switches that offer unique typing experiences are the KTT Darling and the HMX Xinhai, both linear switches. The KTT Darling is celebrated for its chewy and substantial typing sensation, accompanied by a bouncy responsiveness that adds a springy touch to each keystroke. This switch also produces a resonant, high-pitched sound upon bottoming out, delivering a satisfying blend of tactile and auditory feedback. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai features a PA12 top housing for softer acoustics and a POM stem for a crisp, high-pitched resonance, offering a subtle sophistication and precise performance. Both switches share characteristics like being bouncy and clacky, but the Darling is known for its high-pitched and resonant sound, while the Xinhai offers a creamy typing experience. 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
53g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Darling and the HMX Xinhai are quite similar, as both feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of these switches results in a more clear and resonant sound, making them ideal choices for those who enjoy a more defined typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, adding a visually appealing element to the switches.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Darling utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Xinhai's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use this material. This difference in bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience and sound of each switch.
Overall, while both the KTT Darling and the HMX Xinhai share similar polycarbonate top housings that offer a sharp and clear sound profile, their differing bottom housing materials provide unique characteristics to each switch. The Darling's nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound, while the Xinhai's polycarbonate bottom housing may produce a slightly crisper sound. These distinctions highlight how the choice of housing materials can influence the overall typing experience and sound of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is evident that the Darling requires a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Xinhai's 37 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Darling also has a higher force of 53 grams compared to the Xinhai's 45 grams. This means that the Darling switch provides a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the Xinhai, which offers a lighter touch. For those who prefer a lighter keypress, the Xinhai would be the better option, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Darling would suit those who prefer a more substantial typing feel with a bit more resistance. In either case, both switches offer a balance between actuation and bottom out forces, ensuring a satisfying typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Darling linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Xinhai for faster response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial feeling when pressing down on a key may opt for the Darling with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Darling has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Darling for $3.90.
The HMX Xinhai comes in at $3.50 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, both the KTT Darling and HMX Xinhai switches provide a clacky and sharp sound when pressed, offering a crisp and bright auditory experience for users. The Darling switch adds a high-pitched and resonant element to its sound profile, delivering a more engaging and immersive typing experience compared to the Xinhai. However, the Xinhai switch focuses on a softer acoustics profile with a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance, appealing to those who prefer a more subtle and sophisticated sound.
In terms of feel, both switches offer a bouncy sensation to their keystrokes, providing a spring-like and elastic feedback that adds a lively and responsive feel to typing. The Darling switch is specifically noted for its chewy and substantial typing sensation, while the Xinhai switch adds a creamy element to its feel, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience akin to effortlessly gliding fingers across the keys with ease.
Overall, while both the KTT Darling and HMX Xinhai switches offer similar characteristics such as a bouncy feel, they differ in their sound profiles with the Darling providing a more engaging and resonant experience compared to the softer acoustics and distinctively crisp sound of the Xinhai. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for sound and feel, whether they prioritize a more immersive and tactile typing experience with the Darling or a more subtle and sophisticated feel with the Xinhai.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the KTT Darling linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force and typing experience. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and enjoy a typing sensation that is chewy, substantial, and bouncy with a resonant, high-pitched sound, the KTT Darling might be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and value a switch with a softer acoustics profile, distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance, and a touch of creamy smoothness, the HMX Xinhai could be the perfect fit for your needs. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal typing preferences and the overall experience you seek from your mechanical keyboard.
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