HMX Hibiscus vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the HMX Hibiscus and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Hibiscus and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) both offer unique benefits tailored to different typing preferences. The Hibiscus switch is celebrated for its ultra-light actuation force, allowing for an incredibly smooth and effortless typing experience that appeals to users who prioritize rapid response and a light touch. Coupled with its distinctive, clacky sound signature, it can make typing feel engaging and enjoyable. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) provides a contrasting experience, characterized by its heavier feel and refined acoustics. Crafted with a PA12 top housing and a POM stem, it delivers a crisp, higher-pitched resonance that enhances tactile feedback and appeals to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. While both switches fall under the linear category, their unique qualities launch them into entirely different realms of typing sensation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities, so you can best decide on the switch that suits your personal needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
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
T3
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
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Hibiscus and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches share a commonality in their fundamental construction, both utilizing nylon for their top and bottom housings. This choice of material plays a significant role in shaping the auditory and tactile experience of the switches. The use of nylon in both models is noteworthy, as it is recognized for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Being a softer plastic, nylon absorbs sound more effectively than its harder counterparts, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Consequently, users of both switches are likely to experience a similar acoustic quality when typing, emphasizing the rich auditory feedback inherent to nylon construction.
While the similarities in housing materials lend themselves to comparable sound profiles, the overall typing experience may still exhibit unique characteristics based on the specific designs and configurations of the Hibiscus and Xinhai (Heavy). Despite having the same nylon housing, variations in the switch mechanisms, spring tensions, or intended use cases may introduce subtle differences in how each switch feels and sounds during operation. In particular, the bottom housing, which directly influences the bottom-out sound and feel, may affect user perception of the switch’s responsiveness and tactile feedback during intense typing sessions or gaming scenarios.
It is essential to consider the collective impact of the top and bottom housings in both models. Since both the Hibiscus and Xinhai (Heavy) switches feature nylon material across their housings, users will experience a cohesive sound profile whether pressing down on a key or releasing it. The integration of the nylon materials allows for a more uniform experience; the acoustic properties of the switches will feel harmonized as they share similar qualities. Therefore, while there may be design distinctions between the two switches, the consistent use of nylon ensures that players and typists will enjoy a similarly rich and resonant typing experience with both the Hibiscus and the Xinhai (Heavy).
Weight
The HMX Hibiscus and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switches present a clear contrast in their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different user preferences. The Hibiscus features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it well-suited for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, ideal for prolonged use such as work or long gaming sessions. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) boasts a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial and tactile feel when typing. This difference reflects a fundamental choice: lighter switches like the Hibiscus provide less resistance, enhancing speed and reducing fatigue, while the heavier Xinhai (Heavy) offers a firmer touch that some users might find more satisfying. Ultimately, the Hibiscus is the lighter option, whereas the Xinhai (Heavy) aligns with heavier preferences, creating divergent experiences in keyboard usage.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, the Hibiscus features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Xinhai (Heavy) has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Hibiscus the longer option by a marginal amount of 0.1 mm. In practical terms, this means that users of the Hibiscus may enjoy a deeper and potentially more tactile experience when pressing the keys, while those opting for the Xinhai (Heavy) might appreciate the quicker actuation with its shorter distance—making it potentially more suitable for rapid gaming. Both switches cater to different preferences; gamers might prefer the Xinhai (Heavy) for faster responses, while those who favor a more substantial feel may gravitate towards the Hibiscus.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Hibiscus has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hibiscus for $2.99.
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 HMX Hibiscus linear switch produces a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, which can be quite appealing to those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. This sonic character stands in contrast to the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), which boasts a unique PA12 top housing designed for a softer acoustics profile. The Xinhai switch achieves a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance due to its POM stem, offering a more refined and sophisticated sound. Both switches will deliver an enjoyable auditory experience; however, the Hibiscus leans towards a more playful sound profile while the Xinhai emphasizes a subtlety that may appeal to different preferences.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Hibiscus is renowned for its unparalleled smoothness and ultra-light actuation force, making it one of the most effortless linear switches to operate. This smoothness enhances the typing experience, allowing for quick and fluid keystrokes. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) provides a more substantial typing experience as a heavier variant of the classic switch. While it might require slightly more force to actuate, the Xinhai enhances the feeling of precision and control in each keystroke, making it a great choice for users who prefer a firmer touch. Overall, both switches offer distinct feels that cater to different typing styles.
In summary, the HMX Hibiscus and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switches each have their unique qualities that can satisfy different typing preferences. The Hibiscus provides a lively sound signature and ultra-smooth feel, appealing to those who enjoy a rapid and light typing experience. Conversely, the Xinhai presents a subdued yet crisp sound paired with a heavier actuation force for those who favor a more deliberate and controlled keystroke. Ultimately, both switches can deliver delightful typing experiences, but your choice will depend on whether you prioritize lightness and sound playfulness or a more substantial, precise engagement with your keyboard.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Hibiscus and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches largely depends on your personal typing preferences and intended use. If you prioritize a lightweight feel and an ultra-smooth typing experience, the Hibiscus switch would be your best bet. Its 48-gram bottom-out force makes it ideal for long typing sessions, gaming, or any scenario where you want to reduce finger fatigue. You'll also benefit from the satisfying clacky, poppy sound signature that adds a delightful auditory component to your use. On the other hand, if you prefer a firmer keypress and a more deliberate feel, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch, with its 62.5-gram bottom-out force, would be more suitable. Its unique design not only offers higher resistance but also results in a crisp and higher-pitched resonance, appealing to those who enjoy a more tactile and refined experience. Ultimately, your choice should align with whether you want a lighter, more agile switch for speed and ease or a heavier one for precision and control.
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