Gateron Aliaz vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, preferences vary widely based on typing style and environment. The Gateron Aliaz is a tactile switch designed for users who thrive in quiet settings, such as offices, thanks to its silent actuation and muted sound profile. With a medium-heavy weight, it provides a satisfying keystroke feel that appeals to those who seek feedback while minimizing noise disruption. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), a linear switch, offers a unique typing experience characterized by its heavier actuation and a soft acoustic profile. The Xinhai's PA12 top housing and POM stem deliver a crisp, higher-pitched resonance, aligning well with users who appreciate smooth, uninterrupted keystrokes without any tactile bump. Both switches cater to specific needs: the Aliaz prioritizes silence and subtlety, while the Xinhai emphasizes a sophisticated auditory experience and linear performance. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Aliaz Tactile

HMX Xinhai (Heavy) Linear

$8.00

$5.50 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron Aliaz and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) employ distinctly different housing materials that significantly influence their respective sound profiles. The Aliaz features a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound. This is attributed to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic that resonates clearly, thus enhancing the overall audio clarity when typing. Its clear and translucent nature also makes it suitable for RGB lighting setups, as the light can pass through effectively, providing an aesthetic advantage. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) opts for a nylon housing, which has a reputation for generating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound, leading to a rounder and more muted auditory experience.

While both switches utilize a different material for their housings, these distinctions create unique typing experiences that reflect the nature of the materials used. The Aliaz's consistency in using polycarbonate across both the top and bottom leads to a harmonious sound profile that maintains clarity throughout. This results in a typing experience that is consistent and crisp, emphasizing the high-pitched tones associated with polycarbonate. On the other hand, the Xinhai (Heavy)'s dual nylon construction tends to create a more enveloping auditory environment, where the softer material absorbs sound more effectively at both the top and bottom, thus crafting a more immersive typing experience that may be preferred by those who favor a muted auditory feedback.

Despite the differences in housing materials, users can still achieve comparable results in terms of noise levels and typing feel through thoughtful experimentation. For instance, while the Aliaz may offer a louder and crisper response, adding dampeners or modifying the internal components can help soften its sound profile, introducing qualities akin to the Xinhai (Heavy). Likewise, those who prefer the deeper tones of nylon may look for ways to modify their typing technique or add sound-absorbing materials to further refine their experience. Ultimately, these alternatives enable enthusiasts to tailor their switches to suit their personal preferences, whether they gravitate towards the clarity of polycarbonate or the warmth of nylon.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, there are distinct differences in their characteristics. The Aliaz has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, making it a heavier option overall. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch features a lighter actuation force of 55 grams and a lower bottom out force of 62.5 grams, categorizing it as a medium-force switch. This means that users of the Aliaz will experience a more substantial push feel while typing, suitable for those who prefer heavier switches for a more tactile experience. Conversely, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch, being the lighter choice, may be favored by those who need to type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions, as it requires less effort to actuate. Thus, while both switches serve different preferences in force sensitivity, the Aliaz is heavier and more demanding in both actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Aliaz provides a more substantial keypress feel, favored by those who appreciate a deeper, more tactile experience while typing or gaming. In contrast, the shorter 3.4 mm travel distance of the Xinhai (Heavy) is likely to appeal to users looking for a quicker response time, making it more suitable for fast-paced gaming scenarios. For those who prefer a more traditional typing feel, the Aliaz offers a greater depth, whereas the Xinhai provides a snappier, less pronounced feedback. Thus, individuals must choose based on their preference for either a more hearty stroke or a more responsive touch, highlighting the differences in user experience provided by each switch.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Aliaz switches are designed for quiet environments, producing a muted sound profile that minimizes the noise commonly associated with mechanical keyboards. This makes them especially suitable for office settings where a quieter typing experience is essential. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch, while it may not have a detailed sound description provided, is crafted with a PA12 top housing aimed at achieving softer acoustic qualities. The presence of a POM stem implies that the Xinhai switch could offer a distinctive sound characteristic; however, without specific descriptors, it's challenging to pinpoint its exact auditory qualities.

When it comes to feel, the Aliaz switches excel with a silky and polished typing experience, ensuring a smooth key press with minimal resistance. This refinement is likely due to the quality materials used and possibly factory lubing, allowing for a pleasant tactile feedback that enhances the overall typing experience. Conversely, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) does not have detailed descriptors regarding its tactile feel. While it traditionally embodies a linear switch, the absence of specific tactile feedback descriptions makes it difficult to directly compare the level of satisfaction a user might derive in this aspect.

Overall, if you're seeking a quiet yet satisfying typing experience, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is an excellent choice, particularly for those in noise-sensitive environments. Its combination of muted sound and smooth feel speaks to both discretion and enjoyment. The HMX Xinhai (Heavy), while potentially offering a unique experience due to its build materials, requires more insight into its tactile feedback to fully appreciate its qualities. Ultimately, users interested in either option can expect a different experience, hinging largely on their preferences for sound and feel in their mechanical keyboard journey.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch should largely depend on your typing environment and personal preferences. If you find yourself working in a quiet space, like an office, or you appreciate a more muted typing experience, the Aliaz switches are an excellent choice. Their heavy bottom-out force of 75 grams combined with their silky and polished feel makes each keystroke not only satisfying but also discreet, allowing you to enjoy a tactile feedback without disturbing those around you. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch is suited for those who prefer a lighter touch with a medium bottom-out force of 62.5 grams, making it easier to achieve faster typing speeds. If you enjoy a crisp and refined sound profile in your typing experience, the Xinhai can provide that distinctly higher-pitched resonance without the noisiness typical of some other switches. Ultimately, consider your typing habits, the noise level of your environment, and your preference for tactile feedback when choosing between these two exceptional switches.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Aliaz Tactile

$8.00

$5.50 per 10

Learn more

HMX Xinhai (Heavy) Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more