Gazzew LT vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Gazzew LT and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gazzew LT and the HMX Xinhai mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences. The LT stands out for its deep, resonant thockiness and seamless glide with every keystroke, providing a bassy and thocky typing sensation. On the other hand, the Xinhai showcases a softer acoustics profile with a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance, offering a bouncy and clacky typing experience. While the LT emphasizes a low-pitched sound, the Xinhai focuses on a creamy texture. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different users depending on their preference for typing feel and sound. 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
N/A
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gazzew LT and the HMX Xinhai differ significantly in their choice of housing materials. The LT utilizes its proprietary Gazzew blend for both the top and bottom housings, known for delivering a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. On the other hand, the Xinhai features polycarbonate for the top housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This suggests that the LT may offer a more mellow typing experience, while the Xinhai may cater to those who prefer a more vibrant and distinct typing sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the Gazzew LT's use of its Gazzew blend for both top and bottom housings may create a cohesive look with a consistent sound profile. In contrast, the Xinhai's combination of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing offers a more versatile approach, blending the sharpness of polycarbonate with the deeper sound of nylon. Additionally, the Xinhai's clear polycarbonate top housing allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, a feature that may appeal to those who prioritize customization and visual effects in their keyboards.
When it comes to typing experience, the choice of housing materials plays a crucial role. The Gazzew LT's use of its Gazzew blend for both housing components suggests a harmonious typing feel and sound profile throughout the keystroke. In comparison, the Xinhai's split between polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing indicates a more dynamic typing experience, with the qualities of each material impacting different aspects of the keystroke. Ultimately, the decision between the Gazzew LT and the HMX Xinhai may depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew LT linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is evident that they have significant differences. The LT linear switch has an actuation force of None grams, making it incredibly light in this aspect, while the Xinhai linear switch requires 37 grams of force to actuate, making it slightly heavier. In terms of bottom out force, the LT requires 65 grams for bottoming out, which is medium-heavy, whereas the Xinhai only needs 45 grams, making it a lighter option. The lighter actuation force of the Xinhai may appeal to those who prefer a gentler typing experience and can help reduce finger fatigue during extended use. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the LT may provide a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a more solid keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference and whether one prioritizes a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gazzew LT linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Xinhai has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the LT. Both are considered to be on the shorter side of travel distances, with 4.0 mm being the most traditional. Gamers may lean towards the LT for its slightly shorter travel distance, which can lead to faster response times. On the other hand, some users may prefer the slightly longer travel distance on the Xinhai for a more substantial key press feeling. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gazzew LT comes in at $6.50, whereas the HMX Xinhai comes in at $3.50.
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, the Gazzew LT linear switch is best known for its deep and resonant thockiness, providing a bassy and thocky sound profile that offers a rich auditory experience during key presses. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch stands out with its unique PA12 top housing and POM stem combination, resulting in a softer acoustics profile with a distinctively crisp and higher-pitched resonance. While the LT offers a bassy and thocky sound, the Xinhai provides a clacky and sharp sound that is bright and percussive. Both switches excel in delivering different auditory experiences, allowing users to choose based on their preference for sound.
When it comes to feel, the Gazzew LT linear switch is known for its seamless glide and smooth keystrokes. While specific descriptors are not available for the LT in terms of feel, users can expect a satisfying and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch offers a bouncy and creamy sensation, providing a spring-like feedback with a smooth and buttery typing experience. The bouncy and elastic feel of the Xinhai switch, combined with its creamy typing sensation, creates a lively and comfortable typing experience that is both responsive and enjoyable.
In conclusion, the Gazzew LT linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch offer unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The LT excels in providing a thocky and bassy sound profile with a seamless glide during typing, while the Xinhai stands out with its clacky and sharp sound, combined with a bouncy and creamy feel. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance and a satisfying typing experience, allowing users to select based on their desired sound and feel preferences. Whether you choose the LT for its deep and resonant thockiness or the Xinhai for its crisp and percussive sound, you can be assured of a premium mechanical keyboard switch experience with either option.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gazzew LT linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, you should consider a few key factors. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a deep, resonant thock sound with a seamless glide, the Gazzew LT switches may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a unique PA12 top housing for softer acoustics, and a POM stem for higher-pitched resonance, then the HMX Xinhai switches might be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing experience, whether you prioritize sound, feel, or both in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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