Gateron CM vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CM and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) offer distinct yet compelling experiences for users seeking a tailored typing journey. The Gateron CM, with its full nylon housing and meticulously applied factory lubrication, creates a rich, deep sound signature characterized by a buttery and thocky feel, allowing for a smooth and satisfying keystroke that glides with ease. Its dual-staged spring provides a bouncy typing experience, making each press feel invigorating and responsive. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) deviates from the conventional with its unique PA12 top housing, delivering softer acoustics and a POM stem that lends a crisp, higher-pitched resonance. This switch expertly balances subtle sophistication with precise performance, appealing to those who enjoy a refined tactile experience. Both switches cater to different preferences—whether you lean towards the deep, bassy tones of the CM or the crisp, high-pitched sound of the Xinhai (Heavy). 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
55g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron CM and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) are strikingly similar, as both employ nylon for both the top and bottom housings. This shared choice of material is noteworthy, as nylon is a classic switch housing material known for its unique characteristics. Specifically, it provides a deeper and fuller sound profile that enhances the typing experience. The inherent properties of nylon—being relatively softer compared to harder plastics—allow it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory signature. This not only affects the sound profile but also contributes to an overall more enjoyable typing experience, where both switches will likely provide comparable acoustic feedback.
When considering the impact of the housing materials on typing feel, both the Gateron CM and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) demonstrate similar traits due to their identical construction of nylon. Since the sound and feel of the switch can be traced back to the housing material, users can anticipate a consistent sensory experience across both switches. The nylon top housing’s design plays a critical role in the sound when releasing a key, while the bottom housing contributes more significantly to the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. As both switches have nylon for both components, users should experience a seamless integration of sound and touch, enhancing their tactile feedback during use.
In summary, the similarity in construction of both the Gateron CM and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) results in comparable performance in terms of sound and feel. The commonality of nylon in both the top and bottom housings means that users will find little distinction in their typing experiences. Whether it’s the deeper sound profile or the soft touch of the switches, both models are poised to deliver similar acoustic and tactile feedback due to their shared housing materials. This consistent use of nylon ensures that both switches will resonate with users seeking a richer typing experience characterized by muted sounds and a satisfying key press.
Weight
The Gateron CM linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch exhibit some interesting similarities and differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches have the same actuation force of 55 grams, allowing for a lightweight typing experience that can accommodate longer typing sessions and extended gaming without undue finger fatigue. However, when it comes to bottom out forces, the Gateron CM slightly surpasses the HMX Xinhai, with a bottom out force of 63.5 grams compared to the Xinhai's 62.5 grams. This minor difference means that while both switches are similar in terms of feel when initiating a keystroke, the Gateron CM provides a slightly stronger resistance when fully pressed down, delivering a marginally more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, those who prefer a lighter switch may gravitate toward either option, but the Gateron CM's heavier bottom-out force might appeal more to users seeking a firmer feedback.
Travel distance
The Gateron CM linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that when engaging the CM switch, users experience a deeper keypress compared to the Xinhai switch. Gamers and those who favor quicker response times might prefer the Xinhai due to its shorter travel distance, allowing for more rapid actuation. Conversely, users who enjoy a more substantial feel and deeper engagement in their typing experience may gravitate towards the Gateron CM. Therefore, if you prioritize a heartier depth in your keystrokes, the Gateron CM would be the ideal choice, while those seeking a more responsive and swift actuation may find the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) to be more suitable.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CM has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CM for $4.25.
The HMX Xinhai (Heavy) 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 (Heavy) 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
The sound profile of the Gateron CM linear switch is characterized by its deeper and richer acoustic qualities, making it notably bassy, thocky, and low-pitched. This combination results in a satisfying auditory experience that mimics the gratifying "thud" of a well-made switch, providing a comforting feedback during typing. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch does not have a defined sound profile described, but it is crafted with a unique PA12 top housing that typically tends to create softer acoustics. This suggests that while it may not offer the same depth and resonance as the CM switch, it could present a subtler sound that might appeal to those looking for less pronounced auditory feedback.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CM linear switch excels with descriptors like buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless, signaling an extremely smooth and refined typing experience. The factory lube job plays a significant role in ensuring that every keystroke glides effortlessly, enhancing the overall tactile interaction with the keyboard. As for the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), details about its tactile feedback aren't specified, leaving a gap in direct comparison. However, given that it is a heavier variant of an established switch, one might anticipate a denser keystroke with potential resistance, differing from the effervescent floating quality of the CM.
In conclusion, while the Gateron CM linear switch offers a notable auditory experience marked by deep, thocky sounds and an exceptionally smooth typing feel, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) displays softer acoustics without a defined tactile sensation profile. For typists seeking a rich auditory backdrop, the CM would be preferable, while those who prefer a subtler approach might lean toward the Xinhai. Both can deliver unique typing experiences, appealing to varying preferences in sound and feel. The choice ultimately boils down to individual preference regarding sound richness and typing sensations during use.
Conclusion
In summary, both the Gateron CM and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switches offer unique advantages that cater to different typing preferences and styles. If you value a typing experience that is not only smooth but also rich in acoustic depth, the Gateron CM should be your go-to option. Its medium-heavy bottom-out force and distinct sound profile—characterized by a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched resonance—make it ideal for those who appreciate a satisfying auditory feedback during typing. The buttery, polished feel further enhances this experience, allowing you to glide effortlessly through your keystrokes. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter touch with an emphasis on subtlety and precision, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) is an excellent choice. With a gentler bottom-out force and a sophisticated sound profile that leans towards a higher-pitched resonance, this switch offers a refined performance suitable for both typing and gaming without overwhelming your senses. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you prioritize a more robust and tactile experience with the CM or a crisper, more controlled feel with the Xinhai (Heavy).
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