Gateron Ink Yellow vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Yellow and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Yellow and the HMX Xinhai mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that both switches offer unique characteristics to enhance your typing experience. The Ink Yellow is known for its shorter travel distance, providing a typing feel that falls between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard. With a smooth and clacky sensation, this switch is ideal for those looking for a polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch stands out for its softer acoustics profile and distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance, thanks to its unique PA12 top housing and POM stem. Categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', and 'Creamy', the Xinhai offers a blend of sophistication and precision. 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
60g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Yellow and the HMX Xinhai, it is clear that the INK blend top housing of the Ink Yellow provides a high-pitched and clacky sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Xinhai creates a sharper and crisper sound. Both materials offer unique sound profiles, with the INK blend top housing being described as thinner and higher-pitched, and the polycarbonate top housing providing a more resonant and clear sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of the polycarbonate makes it ideal for use with RGB lighting, while the INK blend top housing offers a unique sound experience.
In terms of the bottom housing, the INK blend of the Gateron Ink Yellow once again provides a high-pitched and clacky sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the HMX Xinhai offers a deeper and fuller sound. The use of nylon in the bottom housing absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by the INK blend bottom housing. The split in housing materials between the top and bottom of the switch allows for a unique typing experience by combining the qualities of both materials in one switch.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Ink Yellow and the HMX Xinhai will depend on the sound profile and feel that the user prefers. The INK blend housing of the Gateron Ink Yellow provides a distinct high-pitched and clacky sound, while the polycarbonate and nylon housings of the HMX Xinhai offer sharper and deeper sound profiles, respectively. Both switches offer unique typing experiences based on the combination of materials used in their top and bottom housings, providing users with a variety of options to suit their preferences.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch to the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is evident that the Xinhai is the lighter option with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Ink Yellow has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it the heavier of the two. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Xinhai, as it allows for longer typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Ink Yellow provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, appealing to individuals who prefer a stronger push feel while typing. Both switches offer unique advantages based on their actuation and bottom out forces, providing users with options to suit their preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, we can see that the Xinhai has a slightly shorter travel distance at 3.4 mm compared to the 3.5 mm of the Ink Yellow. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. The difference of 0.1 mm may not be significant for the average user, but for those seeking a slightly shallower key press, the Xinhai may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a bit more depth to your keystrokes, the Ink Yellow with its slightly longer travel distance might be the better option. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, and the choice between the two may come down to personal preference in terms of key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Yellow has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Yellow for $7.35.
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 Gateron Ink Yellow switch offers a neutral sound profile along with a clacky sound when pressed. This combination makes it suitable for a wide range of users and environments, striking a balance between moderate actuation force and a crisp, percussive sound. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai switch also provides a clacky sound, characterized by a sharp and snappy noise. This distinct sound is achieved through the unique PA12 top housing and POM stem, creating a softer acoustics profile with a higher-pitched resonance. Both switches offer a satisfying auditory experience, with the Ink Yellow leaning towards neutrality and the Xinhai providing a more sophisticated and refined sound.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Ink Yellow is described as offering a mild and polished typing experience. The mild characteristics provide a gentle typing sensation suitable for most users, while the polished finish ensures smooth key travel with reduced friction. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai switch offers a bouncy and creamy feel. The bouncy feedback gives the keys a lively bounce when pressed, adding a sense of elasticity to the typing experience. The creamy sensation enhances the smoothness of each keystroke, making it feel like effortlessly gliding across the keys. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, with the Ink Yellow focusing on a more approachable and refined feel, while the Xinhai leans towards a bouncier and smoother sensation.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Ink Yellow and the HMX Xinhai linear switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Yellow provides a neutral sound profile with a clacky sound, along with a mild and polished typing feel. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch delivers a clacky sound with a softer acoustics profile and higher-pitched resonance, along with a bouncy and creamy typing feel. Depending on your preference for sound and typing experience, either switch can offer a satisfying outcome, providing similar results in certain aspects while offering distinctive qualities in others. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smoother typing experience that falls between a laptop and standard mechanical keyboard, the Gateron Ink Yellow may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a blend of soft acoustics and crisp resonance, the HMX Xinhai could be the switch for you. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preferences and typing style. Consider these factors carefully to choose the switch that best suits your needs and enhances your typing experience.
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