Huano Grape Orange vs. HMX Xinhai

Overview

When exploring the world of mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly impact your typing experience. The Huano Grape Orange switch is celebrated for its exceptionally light actuation force of just 40g, allowing for an effortlessly smooth typing journey that’s particularly beneficial during lengthy writing sessions. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai switch boasts a unique construction, featuring a PA12 top housing that offers softer acoustics and a POM stem that produces a higher-pitched resonance, making it a favorite for those who appreciate a bouncier, clackier sound profile. While the Grape Orange is ideal for users who prefer a weightless and fluid key press, the Xinhai caters to enthusiasts seeking a blend of subtle sophistication and distinct auditory feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.

By the numbers

Huano Grape Orange Linear

HMX Xinhai Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Huano Grape Orange and the HMX Xinhai switches feature distinct materials for their top housings, which result in differing sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Grape Orange utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that contributes to a sharper and more resonant sound. Its stiffer nature allows for a higher-pitched audio profile, making it particularly advantageous for users who prefer a crisper typing experience. This can be especially amplified when combined with RGB lighting, as the clear translucency of the polycarbonate enhances the visual illumination. In contrast, the Xinhai employs a nylon top housing, known for its more subdued acoustics. The softness of nylon allows it to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and rounder sound profile that caters to those who appreciate a more muted keystroke feedback.

Interestingly, both switches share the same material for their bottom housings: nylon. This commonality creates a cohesive auditory experience across both models. The nylon bottom housing in both switches is recognized for its ability to produce a fuller sound, as it dampens impact noise and contributes a rounder tone when bottoming out. This shared characteristic can enhance the overall typing experience, ensuring that both switches invoke a sense of warmth and depth during use—an effect particularly notable during long typing sessions or gaming marathons.

While the differing top housing materials of the Grape Orange and Xinhai offer contrasting auditory profiles, the shared nylon bottom housing creates a bridge between them. Users can expect a deeper sound when keystrokes are pressed down regardless of the top housing material, but the distinct qualities of each top housing will influence the release sound and overall feedback. The interplay between the sharper, higher-pitched tones from the Grape Orange's polycarbonate top and the deeper acoustics from the Xinhai's nylon top allows users to select a switch that aligns with their personal sound preferences. Thus, though the materials differ, the results can still reflect a unique yet enjoyable typing experience due to the complementary effects of the bottom housings.

Weight

When comparing the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, both exhibit relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, but there are some differences worth noting. The Grape Orange has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Xinhai features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This makes the Xinhai the lighter of the two, which may appeal to users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, ideal for extended use in work or gaming scenarios. Conversely, the Grape Orange provides a slightly heavier feel, which could cater to those who seek a more substantial typing experience. Despite these differences, both switches maintain a light profile, which means users can expect a comfortable typing experience with each, though the Xinhai may facilitate a slightly quicker response.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it becomes clear that there are distinct preferences based on user needs. The Grape Orange has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Xinhai measures slightly shorter at 3.4 mm. This makes the Grape Orange the option for those who favor a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, providing a greater depth that some users find more satisfying. Conversely, the shorter travel distance of the Xinhai might appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times, as the reduced distance can translate to faster actuation. In summary, if you prefer a more traditional and hearty depth, the Grape Orange is the better choice, whereas the Xinhai offers a more rapid and responsive experience due to its shorter travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Huano Grape Orange switch is known for its distinct characteristics that contribute to a relatively subdued auditory profile, making it quite suitable for quiet environments or extended typing sessions. Unlike the more reminiscent soundscape of the Grape Orange, the HMX Xinhai switch delivers a noticeable clackiness with sharp, snappy sounds when the keys are pressed. This crisp and bright resonance provides a percussive auditory feedback that many typists find satisfying, especially in a more lively typing atmosphere. The differences in sound profiles can result in varied experiences, particularly influenced by factors such as the choice of keyboard construction and keycap materials.

When examining the feel of these switches, the Grape Orange offers an exceptionally light and effortless typing experience, with an actuation force of just 40g. This makes it ideal for long typing sessions as users can tap the keys with minimal resistance. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch embodies a lively and engaging typing experience, described as both bouncy and creamy. This means that users can expect a spring-like feedback paired with a smooth, buttery sensation, enabling a tactile interaction that promotes a sense of ease as fingers glide over the keys. The contrasting characteristics in feel suggest that those looking for a light touch might prefer the Grape Orange, while enthusiasts seeking a luxurious and tactile response could be drawn to the Xinhai.

Overall, both the Huano Grape Orange and HMX Xinhai switches cater to different typing preferences. The Grape Orange is ideal for those who prioritize a light, quiet, and unintrusive typing experience, while the Xinhai offers a balance of vibrant auditory feedback and a plush touch. Depending on your typing style and environment, either switch can lead to an exceptionally enjoyable experience, with the Grape Orange being great for long hours of work and the Xinhai appealing for those who cherish a more tactile and acoustic engagement.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you prioritize a light, effortless typing experience for extended sessions, the Grape Orange, with its ultra-low 40g actuation force, is an excellent choice. It's ideal for those who may find themselves typing for prolonged periods without much fatigue. On the other hand, if you seek a switch that combines precise performance with a unique acoustic profile, the Xinhai with its 45g bottom-out force might be more suited for you. Its clacky sound gives a satisfying auditory feedback that can elevate your typing experience, while the bouncy and creamy sensations offer a delightful tactile response. Essentially, if you favor a fast-paced, less tiring environment, go for the Grape Orange; if you enjoy a more dynamic and engaging feel with a distinct sound, opt for the Xinhai. By understanding these elements, you can make an informed choice that best aligns with your personal style and needs.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Grape Orange Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

Learn more

HMX Xinhai Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more