TTC Iron vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the TTC Iron and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The TTC Iron and the HMX Xinhai are both linear mechanical keyboard switches, each offering unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The TTC Iron is praised for its pronounced clacky sound signature and remarkably light actuation, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience with swift and fatigue-free keystrokes. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai stands out with its softer acoustics profile and distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance, thanks to its unique PA12 top housing and POM stem. With a blend of subtle sophistication and precise performance, the Xinhai switch appeals to users looking for a bouncy and 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
41g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The TTC Iron and HMX Xinhai both offer unique sound profiles in their housing materials, with the Iron utilizing POM for both its top and bottom housing, while the Xinhai utilizes polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. The POM top housing of the Iron creates a deeper and more muted sound profile compared to the sharper, higher-pitched sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing of the Xinhai. The nylon bottom housing of the Xinhai results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, in contrast to the POM bottom housing of the Iron.
While both switches offer distinct sound profiles based on their housing materials, the use of POM in the Iron's top and bottom housing results in a more consistent sound experience compared to the split qualities of the Xinhai's polycarbonate and nylon housing. The POM material in the Iron creates a pleasing and unique sound that is consistent throughout the switch, while the Xinhai's use of different materials for the top and bottom housing may create a more varied sound experience when pressing and releasing keys. Overall, both switches offer a variety of sound profiles based on their housing materials, catering to different preferences in keyboard sound and feel.
In addition to their sound profiles, the housing materials of the Iron and Xinhai also affect the aesthetics of the switches. The translucent nature of polycarbonate in the Xinhai's top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, creating an appealing visual effect. In contrast, the POM material used in the Iron's housing does not allow for RGB lighting, resulting in a more traditional appearance. The choice between these two switches not only hinges on sound preferences but also on aesthetic preferences and the desire for RGB lighting effects in a keyboard setup.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Iron linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is clear that both switches are relatively light. The Iron has an actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Xinhai has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. Both switches are geared towards users who prefer a lighter typing experience. The Iron switch requires a slightly higher force to actuate and bottom out compared to the Xinhai switch, but the difference is minimal. Ultimately, whether a user chooses the Iron switch or the Xinhai switch will depend on their preference for a slightly heavier or lighter typing feel. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with a light touch.
Travel distance
The TTC Iron linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. The Iron switch may provide a slightly deeper feel when pressed due to its longer travel distance, while the Xinhai switch offers a slightly quicker keystroke. Ultimately, the decision between the two will come down to personal preference in terms of response time versus key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Iron has an MSRP of $5.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iron for $4.30.
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
In terms of sound, both the TTC Iron linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch are described as "clacky," producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This characteristic adds a crisp, bright, and percussive element to the typing experience, creating a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. However, the Xinhai switch offers a softer acoustics profile due to its unique PA12 top housing, while the Iron switch maintains a more neutral sound profile. When considering sound, personal preference and the overall keyboard setup including the board and keycaps will also play a role in the final sound output.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Iron linear switch is lauded for being easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force promotes effortless and comfortable typing, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation that makes keys feel lively and offers rebound when pressed. Additionally, the Xinhai switch's creamy typing experience, characterized by a smooth and buttery feel, enhances the overall typing comfort and satisfaction. Both switches present unique tactile qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles.
In conclusion, the TTC Iron linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch each offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While both switches are described as "clacky" in sound, the Iron switch leans towards a more neutral profile, whereas the Xinhai switch boasts a softer acoustics profile. In terms of feel, the Iron switch focuses on being easy-to-press and mild, prioritizing effortless typing and a gentle typing experience. In contrast, the Xinhai switch provides a bouncy and creamy typing experience, offering a lively feel and smooth keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Iron linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams and enjoy a clacky sound profile with easy-to-press keys, the TTC Iron switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and value a combination of a bouncy feel and a creamy typing experience with a clacky sound, the HMX Xinhai switch could be the perfect fit for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and the specific tactile and auditory feedback you prefer in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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