Dareu Master vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Dareu Master and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Dareu Master and the HMX Xinhai are two popular mechanical keyboard switches, both offering a linear typing experience. The Master switch stands out for its medium weight, classic clacky sound, and exceptional smoothness, making it a great choice for users looking for a polished typing experience. 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 resonance, catering to those who appreciate a blend of sophistication and precision while typing. 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
45g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Master and the HMX Xinhai both feature unique housing materials that contribute to the sound profile of the switches. The Master utilizes a POM top housing, which creates a deep and relatively muted sound profile. In contrast, the Xinhai uses a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The differences in sound can be attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate compared to POM, with polycarbonate producing a more resonant sound due to its rigidity.
While both switches have distinct top housings, their bottom housings also play a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switch. The Master's POM bottom housing contributes to a deeper sound profile, complementing the characteristics of the top housing. On the other hand, the Xinhai's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound due to its softer nature, resulting in a fuller and rounder sound. The combination of different housing materials in the top and bottom of each switch creates a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences in sound and feel.
In terms of typing experience, the choice between the Dareu Master and HMX Xinhai will ultimately come down to personal preference. The Master's POM housing offers a pleasing and unique sound profile that leans towards deeper tones, while the Xinhai's polycarbonate and nylon housings provide a sharper and fuller sound. Depending on whether you prioritize a muted or crisper sound, each switch offers a distinct typing experience that can cater to different preferences. Regardless of the choice, both switches showcase how housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall sound and feel of mechanical switches.
Weight
The Dareu Master linear switch has a higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the HMX Xinhai linear switch which has an actuation force of 37 grams, making the Xinhai lighter in this aspect. The bottom out force of the Master switch is unknown, while the Xinhai has a bottom out force of 45 grams, which is considered light. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Xinhai switch would be more suitable, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Master switch with its higher actuation force may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial push feel while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would come down to personal preference for typing experience and weight preference.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Dareu Master linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key fitted with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent key press feel with a similar amount of travel distance. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches offer equal results and are suitable choices for individuals looking for a standard key press experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Master has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Master for $4.76.
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, both the Dareu Master and HMX Xinhai linear switches are described as "clacky," producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. The Master switch offers a classic clacky sound signature, while the Xinhai switch provides a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference, as well as other factors such as the keyboard's housing and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Dareu Master 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 bouncy and creamy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation with a smooth and buttery typing experience. Again, the decision between the two switches will come down to individual preferences in terms of typing feel and feedback.
In conclusion, both the Dareu Master and HMX Xinhai linear switches excel in providing a unique sound and feel experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Master switch offers a medium weight and clacky sound with a mild and polished feel, the Xinhai switch features a softer acoustics profile, higher-pitched resonance, and a bouncy, creamy feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preferences regarding sound, typing feel, and the overall typing experience desired for your mechanical keyboard setup. Whether you opt for the Master or Xinhai switch, rest assured you'll be getting a quality linear switch that will enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Master linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, consider the following guidelines: You may want to choose the Dareu Master switch if you prefer a medium-weight switch with a classic clacky sound and exceptional smoothness in operation. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai switch may be the better option if you are looking for a lighter bottom out force switch with a unique acoustics profile and a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. Choose wisely based on what suits your typing style and preferences best.
Mentioned in this article
