Gateron Jupiter Red vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the differences between the Gateron Jupiter Red and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) illustrate the diverse preferences among typists and gamers alike. The Jupiter Red, celebrated for its smooth and uninterrupted keystrokes, features a medium-heavy actuation that caters well to those seeking a consistent and seamless typing experience. Its polished feel, complemented by high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, makes it a popular pick for users who value both aesthetics and functionality. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) introduces a heftier touch to the classic Xinhai switch, crafted with a unique PA12 top housing that enhances acoustic performance, paired with a POM stem that produces a crisp, higher-pitched sound. This blend of subtle sophistication and precise execution is ideal for individuals looking for a more distinct auditory feedback while typing. Both switches cater to different preferences in terms of tactile feel and sound, suggesting that your choice may hinge on whether you prioritize a smoother, quieter experience or a more pronounced auditory 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

Gateron Jupiter Red Linear

HMX Xinhai (Heavy) Linear

$2.80 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron Jupiter Red and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches present distinct characteristics through their top housings, which significantly influence their auditory performance. The Jupiter Red utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness, which translates into a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This quality not only enhances the clarity of the keystrokes but, due to the translucency of the polycarbonate, allows RGB lighting to shine through vibrantly, offering aesthetic appeals for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) features a nylon top housing, which, being a softer plastic, absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. While both housing materials serve functional purposes, they create markedly different sound experiences, reflecting their inherent physical properties.

On the bottom side, however, the Gateron Jupiter Red and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) share a commonality, as both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This allows both switches to produce a deeper and rounder sound with a noticeable tactile feel, as the nylon absorbs more acoustic energy compared to harder plastics. Consequently, when a user bottoms out either switch, the bottom housing dominates the auditory experience. This commonality in bottom housing helps create a uniform sensation of fullness and dampened sound in both switches during heavy typing scenarios, despite the differences in their upper housings. Therefore, both switches deliver a robust experience when it comes to the overall sound profile during key presses.

Ultimately, the combination of the different top housings alongside the shared bottom housings reveals an interesting contrast in sound dynamics between the Gateron Jupiter Red and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches. The sharper tones of the polycarbonate top housing in the Jupiter Red create an engaging auditory experience accompanied by the richer sounds offered by the nylon bottom. Meanwhile, the all-nylon construction of the Xinhai (Heavy) leads to a uniform, deeper sound throughout. Despite the differences between the two switches in their overall sound profiles, users can expect a fulfilling keystroke experience from either option due to the shared nylon bottoms, offering a similar sense of stability and comfort during extended typing sessions.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Jupiter Red requires a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) has a firmer actuation force of 55 grams, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Although both switches feature bottom out forces that are close in value—60 grams for the Jupiter Red and 62.5 grams for the Xinhai (Heavy)—the Xinhai ultimately provides a slightly heavier bottom out. Thus, the Gateron Jupiter Red is better suited for users seeking a lighter feel, while the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) caters to those who prefer a heavier, more tactile response.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, it is evident that they cater to different preferences. The Jupiter Red features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option, which offers a more pronounced feel and is ideal for users who appreciate a deeper, more tactile experience when pressing keys. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, providing a shorter travel distance that may appeal to gamers who prioritize quick response times and a snappier feel. This distinction between the two switches highlights the trade-off between depth and responsiveness, showcasing the versatility in user preferences; if you prefer a more robust key press, the Jupiter Red would be the suitable choice, whereas if you favor a quicker, more immediate key actuation, the Xinhai (Heavy) may be more appropriate.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch features a neutral acoustic profile, characterized by a moderate actuation force and a sound level that adapts well to various environments. This makes the Jupiter Red a versatile option whether you are typing at home or in an office setting. In contrast, the sound characteristics of the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch are not specified in the information provided, leaving its noise profile somewhat of a mystery. However, it’s essential to remember that the overall sound of both switches can be influenced by the keyboard’s construction, including the type of board and keycaps used.

Regarding feel, the Jupiter Red switches are celebrated for their polished, creamy, silky, and mild typing sensations. They provide a smooth and refined finish, contributing to a typing experience that minimizes friction and enhances ease of keystroke. This results in a satisfying buttery sensation, allowing fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys. Unfortunately, no specific descriptors are available for the feel of the Xinhai (Heavy), which could leave enthusiasts wondering how it compares in terms of smoothness or responsiveness, making it challenging to assess its tactile feedback in detail.

In conclusion, the Gateron Jupiter Red presents a well-rounded option for those seeking a linear switch with a neutral sound and a luxurious, polished feel. While the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch holds some unknown qualities, its unique construction hints at potentially appealing acoustic or tactile features, though these remain unspecified. Ultimately, if you opt for the Jupiter Red, you are assured of a consistent typing experience, whereas the Xinhai (Heavy) may surprise with its performance, pending further exploration of its tactile and acoustic traits. Both switches offer pathways to a satisfying typing experience, which could cater to different preferences depending on the user's specific needs.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and how you intend to use your keyboard. If you value a smooth and polished typing experience, the Jupiter Red is an excellent choice, particularly if you are looking for consistency and a neutral sound profile that works well in both home and office environments. Its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams offers a balanced feel, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced typists alike. Alternatively, if you prefer a switch with a bit more resistance and a unique acoustic profile, the Xinhai (Heavy) may be your best option. With a bottom-out force of 62.5 grams, it is slightly heavier, promoting a more tactile feedback that many find satisfying. The POM stem and PA12 top housing also contribute to distinctively crisp sound qualities, appealing to those who appreciate a refined auditory experience while typing. Thus, your decision should hinge on whether you prioritize a silky smooth action with understated sound, or if you enjoy the engaging feel and unique resonance that the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) provides.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Jupiter Red Linear

$2.80 per 10

Learn more

HMX Xinhai (Heavy) Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more