Gateron Glory Yellow vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Glory Yellow and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, two popular linear options are the Gateron Glory Yellow and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), each offering a distinct typing experience. The Gateron Glory Yellow is celebrated for its smooth keystroke and satisfying travel distance, designed to provide an enjoyable and immersive typing experience perfect for those who prioritize comfort. Meanwhile, the Xinhai (Heavy) distinguishes itself with a unique PA12 top housing that delivers softer acoustics and a POM stem, yielding a crisp, higher-pitched resonance that caters to gamers and typists seeking precision. While both switches maintain a linear feel for seamless key presses, their differing characteristics can significantly influence your overall experience. 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
50g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
15mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the Gateron Glory Yellow and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches, one consistent aspect stands out: both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This choice of material is significant as nylon is recognized for its ability to modify the auditory and tactile feedback of a switch. Specifically, the inherent properties of nylon contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Since both switches share the same material, users can expect similar auditory experiences, characterized by a duller and more rounded sound due to nylon's softer texture, which absorbs sound waves more efficiently compared to harder plastics.
In terms of construction, both the Gateron Glory Yellow and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) maintain the same nylon composition for their housings, bringing a level of consistency to the switches. Each switch's design allows the characteristics of the nylon to shine through during use, reinforcing the notion that users will likely perceive a parallel performance in terms of sound and feel. Both switches are designed to create a satisfying typing experience, with the softness of the nylon housing playing an integral role in how the switches respond not just upon bottoming out, but also when key releases occur.
Finally, it's important to consider how the separation of the top and bottom housing influences the overall performance of each switch. While both the Gateron Glory Yellow and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) utilize identical nylon material, the interplay between the top and bottom housings can affect the typing experience in nuanced ways. The unique properties of the bottom housing primarily impact the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences sound upon key release. Despite their similarities, any difference in the design or dimensions of these switches could result in slight variations in performance, underscoring the complexity of switch dynamics even when using the same fundamental materials. Therefore, while expectations for sound and feel may align, subtle distinctions could still emerge from their overall design.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The Glory Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams, making it lighter and potentially more suitable for users looking for a switch that allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) requires a slightly higher actuation force of 55 grams, providing a firmer tactile experience that some users may prefer for a more substantial feel while typing. Regarding the bottom out force, the Glory Yellow has an unknown value, whereas the Xinhai (Heavy) has a defined bottom out force of 62.5 grams, indicating that it will require a significant push to reach the bottom. Therefore, for users seeking a lighter switch for long periods of use, the Gateron Glory Yellow is the better choice, while those who prefer a heavier, more robust typing experience might gravitate towards the HMX Xinhai (Heavy).
Travel distance
The Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Glory Yellow provides a more pronounced keypress experience, which some users may prefer for a deeper typing feel, especially those who enjoy a hearty depth in their switch. On the other hand, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch's 3.4 mm travel distance caters to gamers and users seeking quicker response times, making it a more suitable option for those who favor shorter travel distances. Ultimately, if you value a more responsive feel, the Xinhai (Heavy) is the better choice, while the Glory Yellow is ideal for those who appreciate added depth in their key presses.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Glory Yellow has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glory Yellow for $4.19.
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 Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch offers a smooth and enjoyable typing experience, though specific sound characteristics aren't detailed. Generally, linear switches like the Glory Yellow tend to be quieter than tactile or clicky switches, providing a subtle and subdued acoustic profile while typing. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch is designed with a PA12 top housing that contributes to a softer acoustic profile, paired with a POM stem. This combination results in a distinctively crisp and higher-pitched resonance, giving it a more refined audio quality that can stand out when compared to other linear switches. While both switches promise a relatively quiet operation under ideal conditions, the Xinhai's construction may lead to a slightly more resonant sound when pressed, influenced by external factors like the choice of keyboard and keycap material.
When it comes to feel, the Glory Yellow is noted for a smooth keystroke with a pleasing travel distance, making it ideal for those who enjoy an uninterrupted typing experience. This sensation allows for fluid typing without any tactile bumps or resistance commonly found in non-linear switches. Conversely, the Xinhai (Heavy) also emphasizes performance, particularly with its heavier variant design that may provide a unique pressing experience, although the specifics on its keystroke feel are not mentioned. The combination of a PA12 housing and POM stem is likely to create a consistent and satisfying feeling during keypresses, appealing to users who prefer a slightly heavier touch.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Glory Yellow and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switches offer distinct, smooth keystrokes that cater to a seamless typing experience. The acoustic characteristics of the Glory Yellow lean towards a quieter performance, while the Xinhai (Heavy) brings a refined sound profile due to its material composition. Both switches, especially considering their heavier variants, aim to deliver a satisfying feel, making them suitable contenders for newcomers exploring linear options. Your choice may ultimately hinge on the desired sound profile and specific feel nuances, but both provide quality options within the linear switch category.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, your choice should depend on your typing preferences and what you value in a switch. If you lean towards a smoother keystroke with a pleasing travel distance and a lighter touch, the Glory Yellow could enhance your typing experience, especially if you enjoy a more subdued sound profile while maintaining a nimble responsiveness. Conversely, if you prefer a heavier feel and a more pronounced acoustic signature, the Xinhai (Heavy) is a perfect fit, providing a satisfying tactile feedback and precise performance due to its unique construction. Ultimately, consider your typing style, whether you favor a lighter, more fluid movement or a more substantial and deliberate press, to make the switch that best suits your needs.
Mentioned in this article
