Jerrzi Orange vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Orange and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Jerrzi Orange and the HMX Xinhai both offer unique features and characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Jerrzi Orange switch is a linear option that is loved for its clacky and lightweight feel, providing a responsive and lively typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai switch also offers a linear design but boasts a softer acoustics profile and a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance thanks to its unique PA12 top housing and POM stem. While the Orange switch is feathery and easy-to-press, the Xinhai is bouncy and creamy. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences, making them suitable for various typing styles. 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
37g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Jerrzi Orange and the HMX Xinhai both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing material, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound output, making it a popular choice for switches with RGB lighting. In terms of aesthetics, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for a visually appealing design that enhances the overall look of the switch. Despite their similarities in top housing material, the differences in their bottom housing materials may result in varying sound profiles and typing experiences.
On the other hand, both the Jerrzi Orange and the HMX Xinhai feature nylon for their bottom housing material. This classic switch housing material offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housing can result in a duller and rounder sound, which can be preferred by some users for a more tactile typing experience. The similarities in their bottom housing material may lead to a consistent typing feel across both switches, despite any differences in their top housing materials.
In switches where the top and bottom housings are made of different materials, the qualities of each housing material will impact different aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing's characteristics will primarily affect the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housings can result in a unique typing experience that combines the distinct characteristics of each material to create a well-rounded switch design.
Weight
The actuation force of the Jerrzi Orange linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch is the same at 37 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Xinhai is lighter at 45 grams while the Orange's bottom out force is unknown. The lighter actuation force of both switches makes them suitable for prolonged typing sessions, but the heavier bottom out force of the Xinhai provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In terms of weight, the Xinhai is considered lighter due to its lower bottom out force, while the Orange's bottom out force remains unknown. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing experience and the desired level of force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Jerrzi Orange linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Xinhai linear switch has the shorter travel distance compared to the Orange linear switch. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are currently popular in the market, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. The difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be significant for most users, as both provide a relatively quick key press experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would come down to individual preference regarding the feel of the key press – whether a slightly longer or shorter travel distance is preferred.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jerrzi Orange has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $2.30.
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 Jerrzi Orange switch offers a clacky and vibrant typing experience with a sharp and snappy sound upon each keystroke. This produces a lively and responsive typing feedback that is sure to capture the attention of enthusiasts seeking a more audible and engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai switch provides a unique acoustics profile due to its PA12 top housing and POM stem combination. It delivers a softer and more sophisticated sound profile with a distinctively crisp and higher-pitched resonance. This allows for a more subtle and refined typing experience compared to the Orange switch.
When it comes to feel, the Jerrzi Orange switch is noted for its feathery and easy-to-press nature, offering a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The minimal exertion required for key presses enhances the overall typing experience by providing a comfortable and responsive feel. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai switch offers a bouncy and creamy typing experience, providing a spring-like feedback sensation with a smooth and buttery feel. The keys have a lively bounce to them, giving a rebound effect when pressed, creating a silky and effortless typing sensation.
Overall, the Jerrzi Orange switch excels in providing a clacky and vibrant sound profile paired with a feathery and easy-to-press typing feel, making it a great choice for enthusiasts looking for a responsive and engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai switch offers a unique acoustics profile with a softer and more refined sound, coupled with a bouncy and creamy typing feel for those seeking a sophisticated and smooth typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Jerrzi Orange linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, consider the characteristics of each to determine which one best suits your preferences. If you prioritize a clacky and lively typing experience with a lightweight feel, the Jerrzi Orange switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a softer acoustics profile with precise performance and a distinctively crisp sound, the HMX Xinhai switch could be more appealing. Whether you opt for the Orange for its feathery and easy-to-press feel or the Xinhai for its bouncy and creamy sensation, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual typing style and desired typing experience.
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