Bsun Light Sakura vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Bsun Light Sakura and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Light Sakura and HMX Xinhai offer distinctly different experiences, despite both being linear switches. The Light Sakura is renowned for its silence and ultra-light feel, making it an optimal choice for those who prioritize comfort during long typing sessions, particularly in shared workspaces where discretion is key. Its quiet operation fosters an environment where users can focus without distracting others. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai presents a unique acoustic profile with its PA12 top housing and POM stem, delivering a pleasantly crisp, higher-pitched sound that appeals to those who appreciate a bit of auditory feedback in their typing. This switch is often described as bouncy, clacky, and creamy, catering to users who may enjoy an engaging typing experience. Ultimately, each switch caters to different preferences—whether one values serene typing or a dynamic auditory sensation. 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
43g
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
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials used in the Bsun Light Sakura and the HMX Xinhai, we see a distinct contrast between their top and bottom housings. The Light Sakura features polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, while the Xinhai opts for nylon for its top and bottom housings. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This quality makes it particularly suitable for enhancing the resonance of RGB lighting aesthetics, ensuring a bright and vibrant appearance and sonic experience during use. In contrast, the nylon used in the Xinhai creates a deeper, fuller sound profile that absorbs more sound energy due to its softer nature. Thus, users of the Light Sakura might experience a clearer and more pronounced keystroke sound, while Xinhai users may benefit from a more muted and rounded auditory experience.
The implications of these housing materials extend beyond mere sound profiles; they also influence the overall tactile experience of each switch. For the Light Sakura, both housing components work in harmony to maintain a consistent and sharp auditory clarity throughout the keystroke, with the top housing providing a resonant finish upon release, while the bottom housing emphasizes the impact at bottom-out. Conversely, the Xinhai's nylon housings, both top and bottom, produce a more subdued sound that prioritizes warmth and depth. The felt contrast results in different user experiences for typing and gaming; Light Sakura likely caters to users who prefer a more dynamic feedback response, while the HMX Xinhai may appeal to those who prioritize comfort and a softer auditory ambiance.
Ultimately, while the Light Sakura and the Xinhai cater to different auditory preferences through their choice of materials, the results can yield satisfying performance based on user priorities. Both switches can deliver enjoyable typing experiences; the Light Sakura will excel in providing a sharp, resonant sound ideal for bright RGB settings, while the Xinhai will provide a smooth and sonically enveloping experience in environments favoring subtlety. By selecting a switch that aligns with individual preferences—whether for crisp or mellow feedback—users can achieve the desired results, despite the fundamental differences in housing materials between the two models.
Weight
The Bsun Light Sakura and HMX Xinhai linear switches have some similarities and differences when it comes to their actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches feature an actuation force of 37 grams, indicating that they require the same force to register a keystroke, which appeals to users looking for a lighter typing experience. However, the bottom out forces differ slightly, with the Light Sakura at 43 grams and the Xinhai at 45 grams. This means that while both switches have the same light actuation force, the Xinhai offers a slightly heavier bottom out feel. Therefore, users who prefer a more substantial typing experience when fully bottoming out might lean towards the HMX Xinhai, while those looking for a lighter feel will find both options appealing, especially given their similar actuation forces. Overall, the Light Sakura can be considered the lighter option due to its lower bottom out force, making it potentially more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions.
Travel distance
The Bsun Light Sakura linear switch boasts a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the longer of the two switches when compared to the HMX Xinhai linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The difference in travel distance may appeal to different types of users; for those who favor a more responsive feel, the shorter 3.4 mm distance of the Xinhai switch can provide quicker actuation, ideal for gaming scenarios. On the other hand, the Light Sakura's greater travel distance might be preferred by users who enjoy a more substantial keypress, avoiding the abruptness that shorter switches can sometimes produce. Thus, the choice between these two switches will largely depend on personal preference for depth and actuation speed.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Light Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Sakura for $3.49.
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 Light Sakura switch is designed to be extremely quiet, making it especially well-suited for environments where discretion is key, such as offices or shared workspaces. This silent operation allows for a typing experience that minimizes disruptions, catering to those who prioritize a placid sound profile in their keyboard switches. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai switch is characterized by its clacky sound, producing a sharp and snappy auditory feedback when pressed. This crisp and bright sound is percussive and lively, appealing primarily to users who appreciate the tactile and auditory response of clackier switches. While both switches serve different preferences in sound, it’s important to note that the overall acoustics can also be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
Regarding feel, the Bsun Light Sakura offers an ultra-light feel that enhances comfort during prolonged typing sessions, aiming to reduce fatigue. This gentle feedback allows for a more effortless typing experience, appealing to users who require a consistent and easy keystroke. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai provides a bouncy sensation, delivering a distinctively lively and elastic feedback upon pressing the keys. This spring-like responsiveness adds a dynamic element to typing, alongside its creamy texture, which offers a buttery smooth experience that feels luxurious beneath the fingers. The combination of these sensations in the Xinhai switch makes it an enticing option for those who value tactile engagement in their typing experience.
In summary, the Bsun Light Sakura and HMX Xinhai switches cater to different user preferences and environments. The Light Sakura’s silent operation and ultra-light feel make it ideal for discreet settings and comfortable extended use, while the Xinhai's clacky sound and bouncy, creamy feel cater to those who enjoy pronounced auditory feedback and tactile responsiveness. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize quiet efficiency or engaging audio-visual feedback in your mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, consider your specific typing needs and environment. If you prioritize a quiet, comfortable typing experience for extended use—particularly in shared or office settings—the Light Sakura, with its ultra-light feel and silent operation, would be the optimal choice. This switch minimizes fatigue and distraction, allowing you to focus on your work without disturbing those around you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more dynamic feel with a distinctive acoustic profile, the Xinhai might be the way to go. Its slightly heavier actuation force provides that extra bounce and a crisp, clacky sound that many find satisfying and enjoyable. This makes it particularly suitable for personal setups where sound and feedback can enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, your choice should align with whether you value a serene, fatigue-resistant experience or a spirited, auditory engagement while typing.
Mentioned in this article
