Gateron Mars vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mars and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Mars and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) both present compelling options for those who favor linear switches, yet they offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Gateron Mars is celebrated for its innovative construction, utilizing a POK stem combined with a durable housing made from a blend of Nylon and POM, resulting in a smooth and consistent keystroke that many gamers and typists appreciate. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) boasts a more robust design with its PA12 top housing, providing a softer acoustic profile paired with a POM stem, offering a crisp, higher-pitched resonance that appeals to those who seek refined sound feedback with their key presses. While both switches provide gratifying linear experiences, your choice might hinge on whether you prioritize smoothness and consistency (Mars) or a balanced acoustic profile and more pronounced tactile feedback (Xinhai). However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that aligns perfectly with your typing or gaming needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
1.20 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
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
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 Gateron Mars and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches, while both utilizing nylon for their top housings, exhibit distinct characteristics that affect their overall sound profiles and feedback during use. Both switches harness the advantages of nylon, which, being a softer plastic, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when typing. The top housing material in both switches ensures that the initial impact when a key is pressed results in a rounder and more muted acoustic response. This similarity allows users to expect a satisfying auditory experience from both switches, making them appealing options for those who value sound quality in their mechanical keyboards.
However, the differences arise primarily in the materials used for the bottom housing. The Gateron Mars features a POM (Polyoxymethylene) bottom housing, known for its unique sound profile that leans towards a deeper and more muted quality. POM is often praised for its durability and low friction properties, which can enhance the smoothness of key presses. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) continues with nylon throughout, resulting in a cohesive sound profile that remains consistent from press to release. This uniformity may lead to a more integrated sound experience, which some users may prefer, while others might appreciate the distinctive auditory nuances that the POM bottom housing in the Mars offers.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Mars and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) may come down to personal preference regarding sound and feel. For users seeking a more layered acoustic experience, the Mars might present a more varied profile due to its POM bottom, which influences the feedback felt when the switch is fully pressed. Conversely, those who enjoy a consistent sound signature may find the Xinhai (Heavy) to be more appealing, as it provides a familiar nylon feel throughout. In either case, the combination of top and bottom housing materials will significantly impact the overall typing experience, ensuring that users will have a satisfying choice regardless of the selected switch.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Mars linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, there's a noticeable difference in actuation force, with the Mars requiring 45 grams to register a keystroke, while the Xinhai (Heavy) requires a heftier 55 grams. This means that the Gateron Mars is the lighter option, making it potentially more comfortable for extended typing sessions or gaming, as it requires less effort to actuate keys. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) offers a stronger push, which some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. Additionally, the bottom out force for the Gateron Mars is unknown, while the Xinhai (Heavy) has a defined bottom out force of 62.5 grams. This further emphasizes the Xinhai’s heavier feel at full depression, appealing to those who favor a substantial key travel experience. Overall, the Mars provides a softer touch, ideal for longer use, whereas the Xinhai offers more resistance, catering to users seeking greater tactile feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Mars linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, we find that the Mars has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Xinhai (Heavy) measures slightly shorter at 3.4 mm. This means that if you're seeking a more immediate and responsive feel, the Xinhai switch may be more appealing due to its reduced travel distance, which can facilitate quicker actuation, making it advantageous for gamers and those who prefer rapid key presses. Conversely, the Gateron Mars, with its longer travel distance, offers a deeper experience that some users might find more satisfying, as it provides a more substantial feedback with each keypress. In summary, the Mars is the longer travel option at 3.6 mm, while the Xinhai (Heavy) is the shorter at 3.4 mm, catering to different preferences in typing and gaming experiences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Mars has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mars for $5.50.
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 $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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Mars linear switch presents a unique blend of acoustic qualities, though specific details about its sound signature may vary with different setups. The housing materials, composed of a Nylon and POM blend, contribute to a distinct sound profile that is generally smooth and subdued. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch is crafted with a PA12 top housing which offers a softer acoustics profile. Its POM stem generates a notably crisp and higher-pitched resonance, creating a sharp contrast to the potentially muted tones of the Mars. Each switch's sound will ultimately be influenced by the keyboard design and keycap choice, but you'll find that they deliver different auditory experiences.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Mars is noted for its smoothness and consistent actuation, providing a pleasant typing experience ideal for long sessions. This can be appealing to gamers and typists alike. Conversely, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, while also exhibiting smooth actuation, is designed with a heavier force requirement, catering to users who prefer a bit more resistance during key presses. This additional heft may afford a sense of control that some typists seek. Both switches offer a linear feel, but the Mars leans towards a lighter touch, whereas the Xinhai (Heavy) emphasizes a firmer experience.
In summary, both the Gateron Mars and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switches present distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Mars combines a smooth, potentially subdued auditory presence with a lighter actuation force, making it suitable for those who enjoy a gentle typing experience. Meanwhile, the Xinhai (Heavy) promotes a sharper sound and a heavier actuation, appealing to users who prefer a firmer touch. Depending on your preference for auditory feedback and actuation resistance, either switch can lead to an enjoyable typing experience, with subtle differences that might resonate differently for each user.
Conclusion
To wrap up, the choice between the Gateron Mars linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you value a unique and potentially lower effort typing experience, the Mars switch might be the go-to option for you, especially if you enjoy a smooth, consistent feel without the need for a substantial bottom-out force. This switch is designed for those who appreciate a more innovative feel and may prefer a quieter typing experience, thanks to its specialized materials. On the other hand, if you favor a more traditional, tactile experience with a bit more resistance, the Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch may be more suited to your needs. Its heavier bottom-out force gives it a more substantial feel, making it a great choice for typing or gaming where you desire precision and responsiveness. Additionally, if sound characteristics are important to you, the Xinhai's unique acoustics profile can add a satisfying auditory element to your typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your individual typing habits, preferences in force sensitivity, and desired sound profile.
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