SP-Star Meteor White vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor White and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the SP-Star Meteor White and the HMX Xinhai mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Meteor White is characterized by its gentle linear switch that is easy to push and produces a soft, pitter-patter sound profile. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch stands out with its PA12 top housing for softer acoustics and a POM stem for a crisp, higher-pitched resonance. While the Meteor White is known for its subdued feel and mild sound profile, the Xinhai offers a bouncy, clacky experience with a creamy texture. Each switch has its own unique qualities that may appeal to different users based on their preferences. 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
N/A
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Gold plated
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The SP-Star Meteor White and the HMX Xinhai both feature nylon top housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Xinhai utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because of polycarbonate's stiffer composition. While both materials offer excellent sound qualities, the nylon top housing of the Meteor White produces a duller and rounder sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Xinhai delivers a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the Xinhai's clear polycarbonate housing is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting effects, adding an aesthetic touch to the overall design.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Meteor White and the Xinhai feature nylon housing, enhancing the typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Despite the similar bottom housing material, the switches may still offer distinct sound profiles based on other design elements and materials used in construction. The combination of nylon top and bottom housing in both keyboards ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel, creating a cohesive design that caters to users looking for a specific typing sensation.
In switches where the top and bottom housings differ, such as the Meteor White and the Xinhai, each housing material contributes unique characteristics to the overall typing experience. The bottom housing of a switch has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, influencing the overall typing sensation. On the other hand, the top housing plays a crucial role in the sound produced when releasing a key, affecting the overall sound profile of the keyboard. Despite these differences, both the Meteor White and the Xinhai offer exceptional typing experiences, catering to users with varying preferences in sound and feel. Whether it's the duller and rounder sound of nylon in the Meteor White or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate in the Xinhai, both keyboards provide quality options for keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
In comparing the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is clear that their actuation and bottom out forces differ significantly. The Meteor White switch has a notably lower actuation force of None grams, making it lighter to press down compared to the Xinhai switch, which requires 37 grams of force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Meteor White switch requires 57 grams, while the Xinhai switch bottoms out at 45 grams. This means that the Xinhai switch is lighter overall, both in actuation and bottom out forces, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Meteor White switch offers a bit more resistance, providing a slightly more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with some favoring the lighter touch of the Xinhai switch for extended typing sessions, while others may prefer the slightly heavier feel of the Meteor White switch for a more satisfying keystroke.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch is 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional distance, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Gamers may prefer the Xinhai for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while others may find the Meteor White more satisfying due to its deeper keypress feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for responsiveness or key depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Meteor White has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor White for $5.00.
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 SP-Star Meteor White linear switch offers a neutral and thocky sound profile, making it versatile for various users and environments. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai linear switch provides a clacky sound, giving off a sharp and bright noise when pressed. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Meteor White leaning towards a more subdued and gentle sound, while the Xinhai delivers a crisp and percussive auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the Meteor White linear switch is described as mild and polished, providing a gentle and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch offers a bouncy and creamy feel, giving users a spring-like feedback sensation and a smooth, buttery keystroke experience. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences, with the Meteor White focusing on a safe and approachable typing feel, while the Xinhai offers a lively and silky sensation with each keystroke.
Overall, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch both have their own strengths in terms of sound and feel. The Meteor White excels in providing a neutral and thocky sound with a mild and polished feel, suitable for a wide range of users. Meanwhile, the Xinhai stands out with its clacky sound profile and bouncy, creamy feel, offering a more distinct and lively typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between these two switches to achieve their desired mechanical keyboard typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, consider your personal preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a softer, more subdued sound profile and a gentler typing feel, the Meteor White may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a crisper, higher-pitched sound with a spring-like bouncy feedback and a smooth, buttery typing experience, the Xinhai could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you prefer and what suits your needs best.
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