HMX Jelly vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the HMX Jelly and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the differences between the HMX Jelly and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switches highlight a diversity of options for various typing preferences. The HMX Jelly is renowned for its low-pitched, deep, thocky sound signature, offering a super smooth typing experience thanks to its excellent factory lube and a lightweight actuation force of just 42g. This makes it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a softer, quieter keystroke that allows for rapid typing without fatigue. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), crafted with a unique PA12 top housing, delivers a subtly sophisticated acoustic profile along with a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance due to its POM stem. This switch is perfect for users who prefer a bit more resistance and a bolder sound, making it ideal for precise performance in both gaming and typing tasks. While both switches offer linear feedback for smooth and uninterrupted key presses, the distinct qualities of each cater to different user preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
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
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T2
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
22mm extended single-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Jelly and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) feature identical housing materials, with both employing nylon for their top and bottom components. Although the technical specifications are the same, the use of nylon in both models evokes a similar auditory experience during typing. As a classic switch housing material, nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile, which is attributed to its softer composition. This characteristic allows nylon to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a quieter and more rounded sound when the keys are pressed or released. Consequently, users can expect consistent acoustic performance from both the Jelly and the Xinhai Heavy, promoting a tactile experience that enhances overall typing satisfaction.
While both models utilize the same nylon material, the effect of each housing on the typing experience can vary slightly depending on the switch's design. The bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a more significant role when releasing a key. Since both the Jelly and the Xinhai Heavy share the same nylon construction, users can anticipate a similar acoustic experience across the board, including the pleasant, muted sounds that characterize both switches. This uniformity means that regardless of the specific model, enthusiasts of quiet and balanced typing sounds will find both options appealing.
The shared qualities of the nylon top and bottom housings in the HMX Jelly and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) further emphasize the advantages of using this material in mechanical switches overall. When both the top and bottom housings are harmonized through the same material, it allows for a more coherent sound profile, free from the discrepancies that might arise from mixing different materials. As users engage with either switch, they can appreciate the benefits of nylon in producing a cohesive typing experience—one that combines sound absorption with tactile feedback. This parallel in housing materials ensures that both switch models will deliver similar results, fostering a satisfying typing environment for users seeking performance and acoustic quality.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Jelly linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces that cater to distinct typing preferences. The Jelly switch features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, resulting in a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer longer typing sessions with less finger fatigue. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, appealing to those who appreciate a more substantial and responsive feel when typing. Consequently, the Jelly switch is generally more suitable for those who value a lighter feel, while the Xinhai (Heavy) switch caters to users looking for a heavier, more tactile experience. Overall, the Jelly switch allows for quicker actuation with less effort, while the Xinhai switch provides a firmer resistance, which can enhance the typing experience for those who enjoy a stronger key press.
Travel distance
The HMX Jelly linear switch features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it the longer option when compared to the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This difference of 0.4 mm can significantly affect the tactile experience; those who enjoy a more substantial feel while typing or gaming may prefer the Jelly switch due to its deeper travel. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Xinhai (Heavy) could appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times, as shorter switches are often favored for their speed and efficiency. Ultimately, your choice should depend on your preference for depth versus responsiveness, as the Jelly will provide a more traditional feel, while the Xinhai (Heavy) may feel a bit more abrupt.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Jelly has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jelly 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
In terms of sound, the HMX Jelly linear switch produces a low-pitched, deep, thocky sound signature that resonates with a satisfying depth. This auditory characteristic is ideal for those who prefer a more muted and robust sound when typing or gaming. Meanwhile, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch offers a unique acoustic profile with a crisp, higher-pitched resonance attributed to its POM stem. The softer acoustics provided by the PA12 top housing contribute a more refined and sophisticated sound experience. Ultimately, while the Jelly leans towards a deeper tone, the Xinhai (Heavy) provides a brighter sound, allowing users to choose based on their personal preference for sound profile, all of which can be influenced by the board and keycap choices.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Jelly switch boasts a super smooth typing experience that is enhanced by its excellent factory lube. Its lightweight actuation force of 42g also contributes to a responsive and easily controlled keystroke, making it an excellent option for users who appreciate a light touch. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch presents a denser and more substantial feel due to its heavier actuation force, making it ideal for typists who prefer tactile feedback and a more deliberate keystroke. While the Jelly facilitates quick and effortless typing, the Xinhai (Heavy) ensures that each keypress is felt, catering to different typing styles and preferences.
In conclusion, both the HMX Jelly and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switches provide distinct auditory and tactile experiences tailored to varied preferences. The Jelly stands out with its rich, deep sound and smooth lightweight feel, while the Xinhai (Heavy) offers a brighter acoustic profile combined with a heavier, more robust feel. This means that while both switches deliver impressive results, one will resonate more with users who desire a thocky sound and smoothness, and the other appeals to those who appreciate a crisp sound and a more substantial touch. Ultimately, the choice depends on personal preference, and users can find satisfaction in either switch.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the HMX Jelly linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences regarding actuation force, sound profile, and overall typing experience. If you appreciate a lighter touch and enjoy a deeper, thocky sound signature, the Jelly switch may be the ideal choice for you. Its 48-gram bottom-out force and smooth keypress, enhanced by its excellent factory lubrication, make it an inviting option for long typing sessions or gaming marathons without causing fatigue. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial feel under your fingers and a higher-pitched, crisper sound signature, then the Xinhai (Heavy) with its 62.5-gram bottom-out force is likely to resonate more with you. This switch’s unique PA12 housing and POM stem provide a blend of sophistication and precise feedback, perfect for users who value both performance and acoustic profile. Ultimately, choose the Jelly for a lighter, thocky typing experience, and opt for the Xinhai (Heavy) if you lean towards a heavier, crisper tactile feedback.
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