Everglide Lightning Silver V3 vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) both present distinct advantages worth considering, despite their shared classification as linear switches. The Lightning Silver V3 stands out with its clacky and high-pitched sound signature, delivering a vibrant typing experience complemented by a unique light diffuser that enhances RGB illumination, making it ideal for gamers and enthusiasts who value aesthetics as much as performance. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) features a heavier actuation force and a PA12 top housing that softens acoustics, along with a POM stem for a crisp sound profile, appealing to users who prefer a more subdued yet precise typing experience. Each switch offers a different tactile feedback and sound profile, catering to varied user preferences in typing feel and auditory feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
48g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) exhibit contrasting characteristics in their housing materials, influencing their overall sound profiles during typing. The Lightning Silver V3 features a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, which is known for its rigidity and ability to create a sharper, crisper sound profile. This is particularly advantageous for users who prefer a more dynamic and resonant auditory experience. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an excellent choice for RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switch. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, generating a deeper and fuller sound profile that feels rounder and more subdued. The inherent softness of nylon absorbs sound waves, leading to a more muted auditory output, which may appeal to users who favor a quieter typing experience.
In terms of material properties, polycarbonate in the Lightning Silver V3 tends to enhance auditory clarity and brightness due to its stiffer nature. This is noticeable during both key presses and releases, as the clear and resinous qualities of the material resonate prominently in sound. On the other hand, the nylon housings of the Xinhai (Heavy) impart a different tactile feedback, with the softened structure leading to a more rounded sound. While the Xinhai provides a rich, bass-like quality, it compromises on sharpness compared to the Lightning Silver V3. This divergence in material properties ensures that each switch offers unique auditory feedback, catering to different preferences among users.
Despite these differences, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch share a commonality in that they strategically utilize their respective materials to deliver a distinct auditory experience. The Lightning Silver V3's polycarbonate housings together produce a cohesive sound profile that is high-pitched and impactful, while the nylon used in both parts of the Xinhai creates a harmonious base that suits quieter typing environments. Users choosing between these two options will ultimately benefit from either switch; each can deliver satisfactory results based on the user's preference for sound profile—either the crisp clarity of polycarbonate or the rich warmth of nylon. Thus, core tactile experiences will remain prominent, regardless of the fundamental housing material differences.
Weight
When comparing the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch with the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, we see notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Lightning Silver V3 requires an actuation force of 48 grams, whereas the Xinhai (Heavy) necessitates a stronger push at 55 grams, making the Lightning Silver V3 the lighter option. In terms of bottom out force, the Lightning Silver V3 bottoms out at 60 grams, while the Xinhai (Heavy) has a slightly higher bottom out force of 62.5 grams. This means that the Lightning Silver V3 provides a softer feel, suited for extended typing sessions, whereas the Xinhai (Heavy), with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, can offer a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger tactile feedback.
Travel distance
Both the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch share the same travel distance of 3.4 mm, meaning they offer identical feedback in terms of keypress depth. This similarity ensures that users will experience the same level of keystroke travel when using either switch, resulting in comparable performance and responsiveness. As such, those seeking a consistent typing or gaming experience can choose either switch without worrying about differences in travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lightning Silver V3 for $4.10.
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 $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
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch produces a distinctly clacky and high-pitched sound that can elevate your typing experience. This sharp and snappy auditory profile is characterized by a bright and percussive nature, which some users may find energizing and satisfying. The light diffuser in the switch further enhances the RGB illumination effect, adding an aesthetically pleasing component to its acoustic qualities. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch is designed with a unique PA12 top housing that aims for a softer acoustic profile, complemented by a POM stem that contributes to a crisper resonance. Although specific descriptive qualities of the Xinhai's sound are not provided, the combination of its materials hints at a more subtle, refined auditory experience compared to the pronounced clack of the Lightning Silver V3.
When it comes to the feel of these switches, the Lightning Silver V3 is celebrated for its silky smoothness, making for an exceptionally seamless typing experience. This smoothness minimizes any resistance when pressing and releasing keys, which can be particularly appealing for long typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) does not provide specific information about its tactile feel, leaving an element of uncertainty regarding how it compares. However, one may speculate that its construction might still offer a pleasant typing sensation, albeit potentially less fluid than that of its Everglide counterpart.
In summary, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 delivers a sharp and vibrant sound signature paired with a silky feel, which makes it ideal for users who enjoy an engaging auditory and tactile typing experience. The Xinhai (Heavy), while promising a more subdued and refined sound due to its unique housing and stem materials, lacks detailed information on its tactile qualities. If you're looking for a switch that provides a lively acoustic presence, the Lightning Silver V3 is a strong choice, while the Xinhai (Heavy) calls to those who might prefer a more sophisticated and mellow overall experience, but its specifics remain a bit elusive. Ultimately, your decision may hinge on whether you prioritize auditory stimulation or a refined tactile encounter.
Conclusion
In summary, choosing between the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended usage. If you gravitate towards a lively, engaging typing experience, the Lightning Silver V3 is an excellent choice, especially if you appreciate a clacky and high-pitched sound profile that makes every keystroke feel sharp and responsive. This switch's silky feel enhances your overall typing experience, making it ideal for both gaming and typing tasks where feedback and sound are essential. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier actuation and a more subdued acoustic profile, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch may better suit your needs. Its medium resistance combined with a more refined sound can provide a unique blend of precise performance and understated sophistication, making it a great option for quieter environments or longer typing sessions. Ultimately, your choice should align with whether you value the vibrant dynamics of the Lightning Silver V3 or the subtle precision of the Xinhai (Heavy).
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