Gateron Aliaz vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
In the realm of mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options stand out: the Gateron Aliaz, a tactile switch, and the HMX Xinhai, a linear switch. The Aliaz switch is favored for its quiet operation and medium-heavy weight, providing a satisfyingly substantial feel to each keystroke. This makes it an ideal choice for those who appreciate pronounced typing feedback without the noise disruption, making it perfect for office environments. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch boasts a unique construction with a PA12 top housing for softer acoustics and a POM stem for a crisp, higher-pitched resonance. This blend of sophistication and precision makes it a standout choice for those who prefer a slightly bouncier and clackier typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
75g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the HMX Xinhai switches differ mainly in their bottom housing material. While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, the Aliaz has a polycarbonate bottom housing, whereas the Xinhai utilizes a nylon bottom housing. The Aliaz's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile, similar to the top housing, resulting in a consistent typing experience. On the other hand, the Xinhai's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound than polycarbonate and creating a duller and rounder sound when typing.
In terms of aesthetics, both switches feature clear housing due to the polycarbonate material used in the top housing. This allows for a translucent design that is especially useful for showcasing RGB lighting effects. However, the switch experience may still vary between the two due to the difference in bottom housing materials. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Aliaz provides a consistent and clear typing sound, while the nylon bottom housing of the Xinhai offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. This difference in sound characteristics can impact the overall typing experience and preference for users who have a preference for particular sound profiles.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Aliaz and the HMX Xinhai switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. While both switches have a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharp and crisp sound profile, the Aliaz stands out for its consistent typing experience with a polycarbonate bottom housing. On the other hand, the Xinhai offers a unique typing experience with a nylon bottom housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound. Ultimately, users may choose between the switches based on their desired sound profile and aesthetic preferences.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, we see a clear difference in weight preferences. The Aliaz has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Xinhai has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it easier to type for longer periods of time. The Aliaz is better suited for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Xinhai is ideal for those who value a lighter typing experience. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on individual typing preferences and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer of the two options compared to the HMX Xinhai linear switch with a travel distance of 3.4 mm. While both switches provide a satisfying feel when typing, the Aliaz offers a slightly deeper travel distance, which may appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced keypress sensation. On the other hand, the Xinhai's shorter travel distance may be preferable for those seeking a quicker response time, such as gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, ensuring that users can achieve their desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
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 $2.99.
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 Gateron Aliaz tactile switch provides a muted typing experience, ideal for quiet environments such as offices. This switch minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, offering a softer and quieter sound. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch is described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. The Xinhai switch features a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance, providing a unique acoustics profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired sound profile in your typing environment, as the Aliaz offers a muted sound while the Xinhai provides a clacky one.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch offers a silky and polished typing experience. These switches are exceptionally smooth, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The polished finish results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch provides a bouncy and creamy typing sensation. The keys have a lively feel with a spring-like feedback, while the creamy texture offers a smooth and buttery typing experience, akin to gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. Choosing between the Aliaz and Xinhai switches will ultimately depend on whether you prefer a silky and polished feel or a bouncy and creamy sensation in your typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Aliaz provides a muted sound and a silky, polished typing experience, making it suitable for quiet environments and those who appreciate a medium-heavy weight with a substantial feel. On the other hand, the Xinhai offers a clacky sound and a bouncy, creamy typing sensation, showcasing a softer acoustics profile with a distinctively crisp resonance. Whether you prefer a quieter, smoother typing experience or a livelier, buttery feel, both switches offer unique characteristics to enhance your typing performance based on your personal preferences. Ultimately, exploring both switches and experiencing them firsthand will help you determine which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch or the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing environment. If you prefer a more substantial feel with a heavier bottom out force and a quieter typing experience, the Aliaz switch is the way to go. It is ideal for office settings or places where noise may be a concern. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lighter touch with a unique PA12 top housing for softer acoustics and a POM stem for a crisper sound, the Xinhai switch is the better choice. It offers a different typing experience with a lower bottom out force, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter key press. So, whether you prefer a muted and silky typing experience with the Aliaz or a clacky and bouncy feel with the Xinhai, both switches offer their own distinct advantages for you to choose from based on your preferences and needs.
Mentioned in this article
