Bsun Jade Rosales vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Bsun Jade Rosales and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Jade Rosales and the HMX Xinhai offer distinct experiences despite both being classified as linear switches. The Jade Rosales, developed by XY Studio, boasts a meticulously refined design that combines custom housings, stems, and advanced lubrication techniques, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience that caters to those who enjoy a seamless and silent keystroke. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch presents a unique acoustic profile thanks to its PA12 top housing, targeting users who appreciate a softer sound with a crisp, higher-pitched resonance facilitated by its POM stem. While the Jade Rosales may appeal to typists seeking smoothness and minimal noise, the Xinhai may attract those looking for a balance of sophisticated sound and responsive feedback. 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
45g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
Y3X
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Custom Milky Material
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.5mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Jade Rosales and the HMX Xinhai, the most noticeable distinction lies in the top housing composition. The Jade Rosales features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This quality is particularly advantageous for users who appreciate a clear and resonant auditory feedback, especially when RGB lighting is involved, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for vibrant light transmission. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai employs a nylon top housing, which is characterized by a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relative softness of nylon leads it to absorb sound rather than reflect it, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. This intrinsic difference in sound profiles reveals how the choice of materials significantly shapes the tactile and auditory feedback of the keyboard switches.
The bottom housing materials in both switches also present an interesting comparison. While the Jade Rosales features a custom milky material blend proprietary to BSUN, the Xinhai opts for a classic nylon bottom housing. Both materials, however, contribute distinct characteristics that change the feel and sound of the switch when pressed. The proprietary blend of the Jade Rosales is designed to enhance certain acoustic properties, potentially delivering a unique auditory experience when contrasted with conventional materials. The nylon bottom housing of the Xinhai, on the other hand, maintains its reputation for creating a full-bodied sound profile that reinforces the characteristics imparted by its top housing. As a result, both housings affect the overall acoustics and tactility of the switches, yet in seemingly different ways.
Ultimately, while the housing materials of the Bsun Jade Rosales and the HMX Xinhai do differ significantly, their distinct characteristics lead to varied sound profiles that complement each switch's functionality. The polycarbonate top of the Jade Rosales produces a more resonant sound on key release, while the nylon top of the Xinhai contributes to a more subdued auditory experience. Conversely, both switches' bottom housings directly influence the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback upon keystroke. Therefore, regardless of the materials used, the composite nature of the housing ensures that users will experience the expected sound qualities—sharpness and clarity from the Jade Rosales and depth and fullness from the Xinhai—enhancing their typing experience in line with their material choices.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Bsun Jade Rosales linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, the differences are quite distinct. The Jade Rosales features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, giving it a medium-light feel that many typists may appreciate. In contrast, the Xinhai has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a better option for those who prefer a lighter touch. This means that for tasks requiring prolonged typing, the Xinhai may be easier on the fingers, while the Jade Rosales may appeal more to users who enjoy a bit more resistance in their keystrokes. Overall, while both switches offer a unique experience, the Xinhai is the lighter option, making it suitable for extended use, whereas the Jade Rosales provides a slightly heavier push for those who favor a more substantial typing feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Jade Rosales and the HMX Xinhai linear switches, the Jade Rosales offers a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Xinhai has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Jade Rosales the longer option, providing a bit more depth in each keystroke. For gamers or those seeking quick responsiveness, the shorter travel distance of the Xinhai might be more appealing, as it allows for faster actuation. However, some users may prefer the more substantial feel offered by the Jade Rosales, which could enhance the typing experience for those who enjoy a little more resistance in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for response time versus depth in the tactile experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Jade Rosales has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jade Rosales for $5.39.
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 $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 Bsun Jade Rosales switch is celebrated for delivering an exceptionally smooth and muted acoustic experience, perfect for those who prefer a quieter typing environment. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai switch stands out with its clacky profile, providing a sharp, crisp, and bright resonance that makes each keystroke audibly distinct. The acoustics of the Xinhai, influenced by its unique PA12 housing and POM stem, contribute to a percussive sound that adds an engaging auditory feedback, ideal for users who enjoy that pronounced auditory response while typing. Factors such as the board and keycaps can further modify the sound of both switches, but the inherent qualities of the Xinhai lean toward a more vibrant auditory experience compared to the muted tones of the Jade Rosales.
In terms of feel, the Bsun Jade Rosales switch is known for its exceptionally smooth typing experience, providing minimal resistance and a buttery action that facilitates effortless gliding across the keys. This results from meticulous refinement and lubrication techniques that create a silky sensation with each keystroke. The HMX Xinhai switch, on the other hand, features a bouncy action that gives a lively, spring-like feedback, complementing its creamy quality. This combination allows for a dynamic and elastic typing experience that energizes each keystroke, making it a delight for users who appreciate responsive switches. The unique feel of the Xinhai is characterized by a distinctively pleasant tactile rebound, while the Jade Rosales prioritizes smoothness, allowing both to cater to different tactile preferences.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Jade Rosales and HMX Xinhai linear switches offer standout qualities, catering to distinct user preferences. While the Jade Rosales provides a superior smoothness and a quieter typing profile, the Xinhai impresses with its lively bounciness and crisp auditory feedback. If you're someone who enjoys a subtle and refined typing experience, the Jade Rosales might be your go-to switch. Conversely, if you thrive on the feedback of a snappy and dynamic keyboard, the Xinhai could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, you're likely to find value in both switches based on your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Bsun Jade Rosales and the HMX Xinhai linear switches, you'll want to consider your preferences for typing feel, key actuation weight, and desired sound profile. If you favor a medium-light bottom-out force of 53 grams and appreciate an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience, the Jade Rosales switches are likely to meet your expectations. They are ideal for those who want a comfortable experience without too much resistance, perfect for long typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and enjoy a bouncy, lively feel with a clacky sound, the Xinhai switches would be a better fit. The combination of their unique acoustic profile and response is well-suited for users who crave a bit more feedback and an engaging typing sensation. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize smoothness and a heavier feel or prefer the feedback and sound dynamics of a lighter switch.
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