HMX Lucky vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the HMX Lucky and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Lucky and HMX Xinhai both present unique characteristics tailored to different typing preferences. The Lucky switch is celebrated for its softer, glittery nylon housing, which delivers a lightweight and neutral typing experience that many find deeply satisfying. Its design prioritizes a smooth keystroke, appealing to users who enjoy a straightforward and comfortable feel during extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Xinhai switch stands out with its innovative PA12 top housing, offering a softer acoustic profile combined with a POM stem that produces a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance. This switch is perfect for those who appreciate a bouncier, clackier, and creamier sound during use, adding an element of enjoyable auditory feedback to each keystroke. Both switches cater to different preferences, making them excellent choices depending on whether you prioritize a smooth and neutral feel or a more pronounced acoustic response. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal 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
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
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
22mm double-staged spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Lucky and the HMX Xinhai rely on nylon as their housing material for both the top and bottom components. This similarity suggests that users of both switches will experience comparable sound profiles when typing. Nylon is recognized for its capacity to create a deeper and fuller sound, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs sound waves more effectively than harder alternatives. As a result, both the Lucky and Xinhai will produce a duller and rounder acoustic experience, enhancing the overall typing comfort and auditory feedback that users may appreciate in their daily activities.
Despite sharing the same material, the effect of nylon on the typing experience may vary based on the configuration and design specifics of each switch. The nylon top housing contributes primarily to the sound profile during key release, while the nylon bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. Therefore, even though both the Lucky and Xinhai utilize nylon for their housings, subtle distinctions in design, such as switch actuation mechanisms or spring characteristics, could yield different tactile feelings and acoustics during operation.
Ultimately, the shared material of nylon reinforces the notion that both the HMX Lucky and Xinhai can achieve similar results in terms of sound quality. Players who value the auditory feedback of their keyboards may find that both switches deliver a delightful and consistent experience. However, it’s essential to recognize the nuanced differences in their tactile feedback, which could be attributed to other design elements beyond the material itself. Thus, while they may have commonalities in sound, the overall typing experience may still differ based on how each switch is structured and engineered.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Lucky linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, both showcases similar actuation forces, with the Lucky and Xinhai each requiring 37 grams to trigger a keystroke. This means that typists using either switch can expect a light feel when pressing down to register a keypress, making both options suitable for longer typing sessions without fatigue. However, there is a slight difference in their bottom out forces; the Lucky switch has a bottom out force of 43 grams, while the Xinhai exhibits a slightly higher bottom out force of 45 grams. This makes the Lucky switch the lighter option overall, as its bottom out force is lower than that of the Xinhai. Consequently, while both switches are on the lighter end of the spectrum, the Lucky switch may provide a slightly more effortless experience for users seeking a less strenuous typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lucky and HMX Xinhai linear switches, the differences are notable. The HMX Lucky switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the HMX Xinhai switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Lucky offers a deeper keypress, which can provide a more substantial tactile experience suitable for those who appreciate a traditional feel. In contrast, the Xinhai, with its shorter travel distance, may cater better to gamers and users seeking quicker response times, as shorter distances can enhance speed and efficiency in typing or gaming scenarios. Ultimately, your preference will drive your choice: if you enjoy a more pronounced keystroke, the Lucky switch is preferable, whereas if you favor responsiveness, the Xinhai switch is the better option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Lucky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lucky for $2.99.
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 Lucky switch produces a typist-friendly acoustics profile that can be described as soft and pleasant, thanks to its nylon housing which dampens noise. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch has a distinctively clacky characteristic, offering a crisp, bright, and percussive sound that can be especially satisfying for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. The different sound profiles of these switches, however, can be influenced by the choice of keyboard build and keycaps, meaning that users may experience varying results depending on their specific setup.
In terms of feel, the Lucky switch delivers a neutral and deeply satisfying typing experience that strikes a balance for most typists and gamers alike. Its lightweight design may appeal to users who favor less resistance in their keystrokes. Conversely, the Xinhai linear switch boasts a bouncy and creamy sensation, providing a spring-like feedback coupled with a smooth, buttery experience. This combination allows for effortless keystrokes, making it ideal for those seeking both responsiveness and comfort during extended typing sessions.
Ultimately, while both the Lucky and Xinhai linear switches present unique sound and feel characteristics, they cater to different preferences. The Lucky is favored for its softer acoustic and neutral touch, while the Xinhai shines with its crisp sound and delightful bounciness. Ultimately, the best choice will depend on the individual user’s priorities—whether they prefer a more subdued experience or a lively and dynamic typing sensation.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Lucky linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter bottom-out force and enjoy a typing experience that feels neutral yet satisfying, the Lucky switch may be the right fit for you. Its softer nylon housings contribute to a comfortable feel, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or casual use where comfort is key. On the other hand, if you appreciate a bit more auditory feedback and enjoy a lively touch, the Xinhai switch could be your best choice. With a slightly higher actuation force, it offers a bouncy and creamy sensation, along with a distinctive clacky sound profile that enhances the tactile experience. This makes the Xinhai particularly suited for those who like to feel a firmer response along with vibrant acoustics while gaming or typing. In summary, evaluate your needs for comfort, sound, and tactile feedback to select the switch that will elevate your keyboard experience.
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