Huano Elf vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Huano Elf and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves comparing various options to find the perfect fit for their typing and gaming preferences. The Huano Elf switch stands out with its POK top housing, designed to enhance acoustics and deliver a deep sound signature coupled with a medium-light feel, resulting in a satisfying typing experience that appeals to those who appreciate a more solid and muted feedback. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai switch brings a unique twist with its PA12 top housing, which offers a softer acoustics profile along with a POM stem that produces a distinctively crisp and higher-pitched resonance. This switch is celebrated for its 'bouncy,' 'clacky,' and 'creamy' character, making it an attractive choice for users who enjoy a more playful and responsive feel while typing. Ultimately, both switches provide excellent options depending on your preferences—whether you favor a deeper sound and weighty feedback of the Elf or the lighter, more vibrant tone of the Xinhai. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
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
POK
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the Huano Elf and the HMX Xinhai switches, one can observe notable differences in the choice of materials, which significantly affects the acoustic and tactile experience of each switch. The Huano Elf employs a POK (polyketone) material for its top housing, which is prized for its low coefficient of friction (0.04) and exceptional durability. This combination results in a smooth, clacky feel, which is enhanced by the resilient properties of POK, making it considerably stronger against wear and shock compared to traditional materials. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai opts for a nylon top housing, a classic choice that offers a softer touch and a more muted sound profile. The nuanced differences between these two materials lead to varied typing experiences, with the Elf's POK creating a distinctive and lively feedback while the Xinhai's nylon dampens sound for a softer typing sensation.
Despite these differences in the top housings, both the Huano Elf and the HMX Xinhai utilize nylon for their bottom housings, establishing a common ground between the two switches. The property of nylon allows for a deeper and rounder sound profile, as this softer material absorbs sound waves more effectively than harder alternatives. This shared aspect means that regardless of the top housing differences, the bottom housing in both switches will contribute similarly to the acoustic experience during typing. Consequently, while the look and feel of the switches may vary due to their respective top housings, the nylon bottoms instill a consistent auditory character across both models, emphasizing the importance of this material in crafting a quality typing experience.
In summary, the distinct materials utilized in the top housings of the Huano Elf and the HMX Xinhai switches lead to contrasting tactile and auditory experiences, showcasing the strengths of POK against nylon. Meanwhile, both switches benefit from the common use of nylon in their respective bottom housings, ensuring a cohesive sound profile that highlights the unique attributes of each top material. Ultimately, the varied performance and sensory feedback of these switches reveal how the choice of housing materials can dramatically influence user experience, while the shared nylon bottom housing provides a foundation that maintains certain consistent characteristics across both designs.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Huano Elf linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, there are notable differences. The Huano Elf features an actuation force of 42 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Xinhai, which has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams. This means that the Elf requires a bit more pressure to register a key press, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Xinhai's lighter actuation force can be more comfortable for prolonged typing sessions or gaming, catering to users who favor a gentler touch. However, while the Elf’s bottom out force remains unspecified, the Xinhai has a bottom out force of 45 grams. This established bottom out force gives the Xinhai a clear tactile response when keys are fully depressed, whereas the absence of data for the Elf leaves its bottoming out experience unclear. Ultimately, those who lean towards lighter switches might find the Xinhai more appealing, while those who prefer a bit more resistance may gravitate towards the heavier Elf.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Elf linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, we find that the Elf has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Xinhai measures slightly shorter at 3.4 mm. This difference means that the Huano Elf provides a deeper press than the HMX Xinhai, catering to users who prefer a more pronounced tactile response. Gamers, who often seek quicker actuation for enhanced responsiveness, might favor the shorter 3.4 mm travel distance of the Xinhai. Conversely, the Elf's longer travel distance may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. In summary, if you prioritize quick response times, the HMX Xinhai with its shorter travel distance may be the better choice, while the Huano Elf is suitable for those who appreciate a more robust typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Elf has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Elf for $3.29.
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 Huano Elf linear switch is known for delivering a deep sound signature, facilitated by its POK top housing which enhances acoustics for a fuller auditory experience. This gives the Elf a robust and satisfying auditory profile that is not overly harsh, providing an enjoyable typing sound. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai linear switch offers a crisper, higher-pitched resonance thanks to its unique PA12 top housing and POM stem. The Xinhai’s sound can be characterized as clacky, producing sharp and snappy notes that are bright and percussive when pressed. While both switches provide distinctive auditory profiles, the Elf leans towards a deeper resonance while the Xinhai presents a more elevated and sharp tone.
When considering feel, the Huano Elf switch offers a medium-light resistance which contributes to a satisfying and comfortable typing experience. The feedback it provides is well-balanced, making it easy to type for extended periods without undue fatigue. The HMX Xinhai switch, on the other hand, features a bouncy and creamy sensation. The bounciness provides a lively feedback that can feel exhilarating each time a key is pressed, creating an enjoyable rebound effect. Additionally, the creamy texture contributes to a smooth and buttery typing experience, allowing fingers to glide effortlessly over the keys, which can elevate comfort and increase typing efficiency.
In conclusion, while the Huano Elf and HMX Xinhai linear switches both cater to distinct preferences in the mechanical keyboard spectrum, they each possess unique sound and feel characteristics. The Elf presents a deeper sound and a balanced resistance for typing, ideal for those who appreciate a fuller auditory experience and a satisfying feel. Conversely, the Xinhai offers a brighter auditory signature along with a lively, smooth, and creamy feel that many will find delightful. Depending on your preferences for sound and tactile feedback, either switch can enhance your typing experience, but the choice ultimately comes down to whether you prefer deeper resonance or a higher-pitched, crisp experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Huano Elf linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, consider your typing preferences and sound sensitivities. If you're after a switch that emphasizes acoustics with a deep sound signature while offering a medium-light feel, the Elf might suit you well, especially if you appreciate a more muted sound profile and a satisfying typing experience. This switch is particularly beneficial for those who prefer a quieter typing environment without sacrificing comfort. On the other hand, if you enjoy a brighter, clackier sound with a notable bouncy and creamy feel, the Xinhai is likely the better choice for you. With its unique PA12 top housing and POM stem, you can expect a lively touch and distinct resonance, perfect for individuals seeking both a sophisticated auditory experience and responsive feedback. Ultimately, your choice should reflect what you prioritize in your typing experience: acoustics and subtlety with the Elf, or brightness and a lively touch with the Xinhai.
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