Gateron Ink Yellow vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Yellow and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, both the Gateron Ink Yellow and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) present compelling options for users seeking a linear typing experience, though they cater to slightly different preferences. The Gateron Ink Yellow is ideal for those who prefer a balance between a laptop-style key feel and the tactile feedback of traditional mechanical keyboards, boasting a shorter travel distance and a pleasant smoothness combined with a mild clackiness. This makes it a great choice for typists who enjoy a lively yet refined typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) offers a more substantial feel with its unique PA12 top housing that produces softer acoustics, complemented by a POM stem that provides a crisp and higher-pitched resonance. This switch is perfect for users who appreciate a touch of sophistication in sound along with a heavier actuation that can enhance their typing precision. Both switches offer distinct advantages tailored to different user preferences; 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
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Yellow and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches, it is evident that they employ distinct types of materials that influence their overall sound profiles. The Ink Yellow utilizes a proprietary INK blend, which is engineered to produce a high-pitched and somewhat pointed sound when engaged. This sound is often characterized as clacky, suggesting that the top housing of the Ink Yellow has a unique acoustic property that leans towards a sharper auditory experience. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch employs nylon for its top housing, which is a traditional choice known for yielding a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon tends to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience.
Additionally, both switches feature different materials for their bottom housings, further enhancing their sound characteristics. The Ink Yellow's bottom housing also maintains the proprietary INK blend, thus continuing its signature high-pitched sound profile and reinforcing the clacky tone that typifies its user experience. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing of the Xinhai (Heavy) accentuates its already deeper sound, contributing to a more subdued bottom-out noise that complements the overall experience. This contrast in materials creates a fundamental difference in how the two switches sound when bottomed out, with the Ink Yellow aiming for a more pronounced, vibrant auditory feedback and the Xinhai (Heavy) focusing on a rounded and muted response.
In practice, despite the differences in materials, one can achieve similar results in terms of sound dynamics by understanding the role of top and bottom housings in these switches. Since the qualities of the housing materials influence the sound profile upon key release and bottoming out, users can manipulate their typing technique or switch configuration to reach a desirable sonic effect. For instance, if someone primarily values the high-pitched clackiness of the Ink Yellow, they might benefit from experimenting with other lighter keycaps or adjusting their typing force. Similarly, for those who appreciate the deeper tones of the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), they could opt for heavier keycaps causing a more pronounced impact. This adaptability enables users to explore different auditory experiences while maintaining the inherent nature of the switches they choose.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces that cater to various preferences among users. The Gateron Ink Yellow has a slightly higher actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, positioning it as a medium-heavy option. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch features a lighter actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, placing it in the medium range. This means that users who prefer a stronger push feel may gravitate toward the Ink Yellow, as its higher forces provide a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, those seeking a lighter touch for extended typing sessions would appreciate the lower actuation and bottom out forces of the Xinhai. Overall, if you're looking for a heavier switch, the Gateron Ink Yellow is the way to go; if you prefer something lighter, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) will be more suitable.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, there is a slight difference to consider. The Ink Yellow features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Xinhai (Heavy) measures 3.4 mm. This makes the Xinhai (Heavy) the shorter option between the two. For users seeking snappier responses, the marginally shorter travel distance of the Xinhai may provide a slight advantage. Conversely, those who favor a more substantial depth in their key presses might prefer the Ink Yellow’s extended travel distance of 3.5 mm. As both switches have relatively close travel distances, the differences in feel and feedback may ultimately come down to personal preference in regard to responsiveness versus depth.
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 (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 $3.19.
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 Gateron Ink Yellow switch is notable for its clackiness, producing a sharp, crisp, and bright sound during typing. This quality makes it suitable for both home and office settings, providing an auditory feedback that many users find satisfying. The clacky nature of the switch also offers a percussive element that can enhance the typing experience for enthusiasts and casual users alike. In contrast, the sound profile of the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) remains relatively unknown, but its unique construction hints at a softer acoustics profile, which may lend a more subdued sound overall. If you prefer a quieter typing experience, the Xinhai might offer a more subtle auditory presence, while those who enjoy a more engaging clacky sound may lean towards the Ink Yellow.
In terms of feel, the Ink Yellow switch provides a mild typing experience, characterized by an approachable tactile feedback that appeals to a wide range of users. Its polished action ensures a smooth key travel, minimizing friction and enhancing the overall typing comfort. This makes it a versatile choice for both typing and gaming. On the other hand, the feel of the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) is also not specifically detailed, leaving its tactile characteristics open to speculation. However, its heavy variant suggests a more substantial actuation force, which could deliver a firmer resistance that some users might prefer for a more definitive typing experience.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch excels in providing a clacky sound profile and a smooth, mild feel that caters to a wide audience, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) presents an interesting alternative with its promise of softer acoustics and potential for a heavier typing experience. Depending on individual preferences, users may find joy in the cheerful audibility of the Ink Yellow or the refined sophistication of the Xinhai. Ultimately, both switches cater to different typing styles, offering unique qualities that can enhance the overall mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, your personal preferences and typing needs are paramount. If you're looking for a balance between laptop-like and traditional mechanical keyboard experiences, the Ink Yellow is an excellent choice, especially since it offers a pleasant smoothness with a clacky sound profile that can enhance your typing enjoyment. Its 67-gram bottom-out force suits those who appreciate a medium-heavy feel, making it ideal for both casual typing and gaming scenarios where a tactile response is desirable. On the other hand, if you prefer a more sophisticated auditory experience and a slightly lighter bottom-out force of 62.5 grams, the Xinhai (Heavy) would better serve you. Its unique materials provide a crisp, high-pitched resonance that is not only appealing for typing but also supports a refined acoustic profile perfect for a quieter work environment. Ultimately, your choice hinges on how much you value smoothness versus distinct sound quality in your typing experience; both switches have something unique to offer, catering to different typing styles and environments.
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