Keygeek Keylin vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keylin and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Keygeek Keylin and the HMX Xinhai both offer distinct advantages, particularly for fans of linear switches. The Keylin is celebrated for its premium typing experience, which is enhanced by new molds that contribute to its smooth operation and rich acoustics, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a seamless and quiet typing experience. On the other hand, the Xinhai stands out with its unique PA12 top housing, designed to produce softer acoustics, while its POM stem delivers a crisp, higher-pitched resonance. This switch combines subtle sophistication with precise performance, catering to users who appreciate a more pronounced tactile feedback. While both switches offer their own unique flavors of linearity, ultimately the choice comes down to personal preferences regarding acoustics and feel. 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
38g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
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
21mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Keygeek Keylin and HMX Xinhai utilize nylon for both their top and bottom switch housings, which establishes a distinct similarity in their material composition. This shared use of nylon as a housing material is significant because it influences the acoustic and tactile characteristics of the switches. Both designs promise to deliver a deeper and fuller sound profile while typing, thanks to nylon’s softer plastic composition. This softness allows for greater sound absorption compared to harder plastics, resulting in a sound that is more rounded and less jarring, creating a pleasant acoustic experience.
Despite the commonality in materials, the specific impact of the housing on user experience can differ based on housing placement. In both switches, the nylon bottom housing plays a pivotal role in the feel and sound of the key bottoming out during use. This means that while both the Keylin and Xinhai can produce similar auditory sensations due to their identical material properties, the tactile feedback and sound produced at the moment of pressing down could still vary based on potential differences in design attributes, such as switch actuation and resistance. Thus, though the essence of sound remains consistent, nuances can emerge from the overall switch engineering.
Moreover, the acoustic qualities tied to the top housing also play an integral role when the keys are released. Here, the nylon top housing will affect the sound profile produced as the finger lifts away from the key. With both switches using nylon, users can expect a consistently full and rich sound when letting go of a key, reinforcing the overall auditory satisfaction of the typing experience. Ultimately, this comparison showcases that while both Keylin and Xinhai switches benefit from the same nylon materials, variations in design can still create distinctive tactile and auditory experiences, seamlessly blending the qualities of sound and touch.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Keylin linear switch to the HMX Xinhai linear switch, both switches exhibit relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, appealing to users who prefer a lighter typing experience. The Keylin has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Xinhai features a slightly lower actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the Xinhai is marginally lighter in terms of actuation force, making it potentially more comfortable for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Keylin, with its slightly higher bottom out force, may provide a more pronounced tactile feedback upon bottoming out. Ultimately, both switches cater to those who favor a lighter touch, but the Keylin offers a heavier bottom out experience compared to the Xinhai, resulting in a distinct typing feel despite their similarities.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, there is a notable difference in their specifications. The Keylin has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Xinhai measures slightly shorter at 3.4 mm. This makes the Keylin the longer option, offering a deeper feel with each key press, which might appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial feedback when typing or gaming. Conversely, the Xinhai’s shorter travel distance could cater to gamers seeking quicker response times, as it allows for faster actuation. Both switches fall into a range that is more contemporary than the traditional 4.0 mm, but for users who prefer a less abrupt experience, the Keylin’s longer travel distance may be more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences regarding keypress depth versus responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Keylin has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keylin for $3.29.
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
When it comes to sound, the Keygeek Keylin linear switch offers a premium typing experience characterized by rich acoustics, though specific sound qualities are not explicitly detailed. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai linear switch is noted for its clacky nature, producing a sharp and snappy sound profile that many users find appealing. The Xinhai's combination of a softer acoustics profile from its PA12 top housing and the crisp resonance from its POM stem give it a unique auditory experience, suggesting that while Keylin delivers rich sounds, the Xinhai might resonate more brightly in a clacky, percussive manner.
In terms of feel, the Keylin linear switch excels in providing a smooth typing experience, though precise descriptors are not given, hinting at a gentle and pleasant tactile sensation. The Xinhai switch, on the other hand, combines a bouncy character with a creamy texture. This duality gives the user a lively feedback sensation with a soft, buttery glide, making each keystroke feel effortless and fluid. The Xinhai thus offers a more dynamic tactile experience compared to Keylin, which, while smooth, may not provide the same level of responsiveness.
In summary, while both the Keygeek Keylin and HMX Xinhai linear switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience, they do so through different audio and tactile attributes. The Keylin emphasizes rich sound and smoothness, making it ideal for those who prioritize a more subdued experience. In contrast, the Xinhai offers sharper auditory feedback along with a lively and creamy feel, appealing to users who enjoy a more pronounced response with each keystroke. Ultimately, selecting between the two will come down to personal preference regarding sound and tactile feedback, as both switches can still provide enjoyable typing experiences in their own rights.
Conclusion
To sum up, the choice between Keygeek Keylin linear switches and HMX Xinhai linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences regarding typing feel and sound characteristics. If you favor a premium typing experience characterized by exceptional smoothness and rich acoustics, the Keylin switch would be a great fit for you. Its slightly heavier bottom-out force of 48 grams coupled with a sophisticated sound profile can make it ideal for users looking for a more refined tactile experience. Conversely, if you lean towards a switch that offers a lively and bouncy feedback with a distinctively crisp sound, the Xinhai switch may be your best option. With its lighter bottom-out force of 45 grams, this switch provides a playful and creamy feel, thanks to its unique PA12 top housing and POM stem, making it suitable for those who enjoy a sharper, more energetic typing experience. Ultimately, both switches cater to different typing styles, and your decision should be guided by whether you prefer a smooth, rich sound or a vibrant, clacky feedback that enhances your overall interaction with your keyboard.
Mentioned in this article
