HMX Gravel vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the HMX Gravel and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves drawn to the HMX Gravel and HMX Xinhai switches, both of which belong to the linear category yet offer distinctly different experiences. The ergonomic design of the Gravel is tailored for those who appreciate a smooth and refined typing feel, featuring a medium-light actuation force that ensures a responsive and effortless typing experience. In contrast, the Xinhai switch elevates the acoustic experience with its unique PA12 top housing, which enhances the sound profile, and a POM stem that introduces a crisp, higher-pitched resonance, appealing to users who prefer a more dynamic and lively auditory feedback. While the Gravel excels in providing an ultra-smooth tactile experience, the Xinhai tantalizes with its bouncy, clacky, and creamy characteristics that contribute to a more engaging typing sensation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Gravel and the HMX Xinhai, notable differences emerge, particularly in their top housings. The Gravel utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and translucency, which enhances sound clarity and resonance. This results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, making it especially compatible with RGB lighting due to its clear appearance. In contrast, the Xinhai features a nylon top housing, a classic switch material that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This softer material absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder auditory experience. The contrasting properties of polycarbonate and nylon in the top housing significantly influence the overall sound quality and aesthetic appeal of each switch.
Conversely, both the Gravel and the Xinhai share a commonality in their bottom housings, which are both manufactured from nylon. This consistency brings about a similar audio characteristic, as nylon is revered for its sound absorption capabilities. The use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches, meaning the bottom-out sounds will be akin in nature. The impact of this shared material is significant, as it will provide users with a consistent tactile experience when pressing down on either switch.
Ultimately, the differences between the Gravel and Xinhai's top housings result in a contrasting auditory experience, while both bottom housings unify their sound profiles. The Gravel's polycarbonate top creates a bright and resonant sound during key releases, while the Xinhai's nylon top fosters a rounder and softer sound. However, the shared nylon bottom housing harmonizes the overall output of both switches, ensuring that, regardless of the mix of materials, users will experience a rich and satisfying tactile experience derived from the nylon component. Thus, while the top materials influence individual sound characteristics, the consistency of the bottom housing creates a certain familiarity in feel across both models.
Weight
The HMX Gravel and HMX Xinhai linear switches both feature light actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for users who prefer a softer touch. The Gravel has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Xinhai is even lighter with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the Xinhai switch requires less force to actuate, providing an easier keystroke experience, which can be beneficial for extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Gravel, while still light, offers a slightly heavier feel that may appeal to users who desire a bit more resistance when pressing the keys. Overall, both switches will yield similar results in terms of a light typing experience, but the Xinhai is the lighter option, making it more suited for those prioritizing prolonged use.
Travel distance
The HMX Gravel linear switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Gravel offers a deeper key press compared to the Xinhai. For gamers or users who prioritize quick response times, the shorter travel distance of the Xinhai may be more appealing, providing a snappier feel during key presses. Conversely, those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience might prefer the Gravel for its greater depth, as the longer travel distance can offer a more deliberate and satisfying feedback while typing. Ultimately, each switch caters to different preferences, with the Xinhai being the shorter option and the Gravel providing a more extended travel experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Gravel has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gravel for $2.99.
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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Gravel switch presents a profile that is yet to be characterized in the given information, leaving room for subjective interpretation or discovery. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai switch is distinctly noted for its clacky sound, characterized as sharp and snappy. This crisp and bright auditory feedback can enhance the typing experience, making it feel more interactive and engaging, especially suited for those who enjoy a percussive sound that resonates with each keystroke. However, one must keep in mind that sound perception can significantly vary based on the keyboard construction, keycap material, and other factors.
In terms of feel, the HMX Gravel linear switch is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness and a medium-light actuation force, giving typists a responsive and effortless experience. Its smoothness elevates the typing dynamics, making every keypress feel refined and comfortable. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai switch offers a multifaceted feel described as both bouncy and creamy. This combination provides a lively, spring-like feedback along with an incredibly smooth, buttery sensation when typing. The bouncy sensation offers a delightful rebound effect, while the creamy aspect ensures that each keystroke feels luxurious and fluid, akin to effortlessly gliding fingers across the keys.
In conclusion, while the HMX Gravel and HMX Xinhai switches both belong to the linear category, they deliver different auditory and tactile experiences. The Gravel focuses on a smooth and light typing experience, whereas the Xinhai combines a lively bounce with a creamy touch for a more complex feel. The sound characteristics of the Gravel remain unspecified, but the Xinhai's clacky nature offers a sharp auditory response. Ultimately, your choice may depend on whether you prefer a serene typing experience or a more engaging and tactile one, keeping in mind that both switches cater to enthusiasts seeking refined performance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing between the HMX Gravel linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences in typing experience and sound profile. If you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience with a slightly higher bottom-out force, the Gravel is an excellent choice. Its medium-light actuation force ensures that you can type with ease, making it ideal for long typing sessions where comfort is key. On the other hand, if you seek a more dynamic feel coupled with distinctive sound characteristics, the Xinhai switch might be your best bet. Its bouncy and creamy sensation offers a lively feedback that can make typing feel more engaging, while the clacky sound adds an element of auditory enjoyment to your interactions. Therefore, consider what aspects of a switch resonate more with your typing style and the overall experience you wish to create—whether it's the smooth, refined feel of the Gravel or the vibrant, expressive character of the Xinhai.
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