Durock Mamba vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Durock Mamba and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Durock Mamba and HMX Xinhai are two popular mechanical keyboard switches, both offering a linear typing experience. The Mamba switch pays tribute to Kobe Bryant and provides a smooth gliding sensation while typing, coupled with a rich and creamy sound. It is known for its neutral, mild, thocky, and polished feel. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch boasts a unique PA12 top housing for softer acoustics and a POM stem for a crisp, higher-pitched sound. It is characterized by its bouncy, clacky, and creamy qualities. Both switches have their strengths and appeal to different preferences, but diving deeper into their individual features will help you decide which one is the best fit for your typing needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Extended long spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Mamba and the HMX Xinhai, one can see a clear difference in the sound profiles they offer. The Mamba's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing provides a brighter and less sharp sound, while the Xinhai's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound. This contrast in sound can greatly impact the overall typing experience, depending on individual preferences for sound quality.
When it comes to the bottom housing materials, the Mamba's POM housing produces a deeper and more muted sound profile, whereas the Xinhai's nylon bottom housing offers a fuller and rounder sound. This difference in sound can affect the overall typing experience and may appeal to different users based on their preferences for sound feedback while typing. Each housing material brings a unique auditory experience to the switches, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences.
While both the Mamba and Xinhai switches offer different materials for their top and bottom housings, the qualities each housing material brings contribute to the overall typing experience. The impact of the bottom housing can be felt when pressing down on a key, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing has a more significant impact on the sound when letting go of a key. Understanding the qualities of each housing material can help users make informed decisions based on their preferences for sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Mamba linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is evident that the Xinhai is the lighter option of the two. The Mamba has a medium bottom out force of 60 grams but an unknown actuation force, while the Xinhai has a light bottom out force of 45 grams and an actuation force of 37 grams. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Xinhai to be more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Mamba may appeal to those who prefer a slightly stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Mamba linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, slightly longer than the HMX Xinhai linear switch with a travel distance of 3.4 mm. While the difference is minimal, it may impact the typing experience for some users. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, making them popular for gaming due to the quicker response times. Gamers who prefer a more responsive feel may lean towards the Xinhai, while those who enjoy a bit more depth in their keystrokes may prefer the Mamba. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Mamba has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mamba for $5.17.
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
The Durock Mamba linear switch is known for its smooth and creamy sound profile, providing a rich auditory experience that many users find satisfying. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai linear switch offers a crisper and higher-pitched sound due to its unique PA12 top housing and POM stem, delivering a distinctively sharp and percussive sound when pressed. Both switches have their own charm in terms of sound, with the Mamba offering a more neutral and thocky sound, while the Xinhai provides a clacky sound experience.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Mamba switch is described as mild and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with a smooth and refined finish. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai switch is characterized by its bouncy and creamy feel, providing a spring-like feedback sensation and a buttery typing experience. While both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, the Mamba leans towards a more approachable and middle-ground feel, while the Xinhai provides a lively and silky sensation with each keystroke.
In conclusion, the Durock Mamba and HMX Xinhai linear switches each offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. If you enjoy a smooth and creamy typing experience with a rich sound, the Mamba may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a crisper and bouncier feel with a sharper sound profile, the Xinhai could be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches provide quality performance and it ultimately comes down to personal preference in selecting the one that suits your typing style the best.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Durock Mamba and the HMX Xinhai linear switches, consider the bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel that best suits your preferences. If you prefer a slightly heavier actuation force and a neutral or thocky sound profile with a mild and polished typing experience, the Mamba may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and a clacky sound profile with a bouncy and creamy typing experience, the Xinhai could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and the type of typing experience you desire. Happy typing!
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