PH Studio Milk Tea vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Milk Tea and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
In the realm of mechanical keyboard switches, two contenders stand out – the PH Studio Milk Tea and the HMX Xinhai, both linear switches with their own unique characteristics. The Milk Tea, known for its high-pitched but muted sound profile, offers a gentle balance between presence and subtlety, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions. On the other hand, the Xinhai showcases a softer acoustics profile with a crisp, higher-pitched resonance, thanks to its PA12 top housing and POM stem. While the Milk Tea is categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Marbly', 'Polished', 'Silky', 'Resonant', the Xinhai falls into the categories of 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', and 'Creamy'. Each switch has its own unique qualities that may appeal to different preferences and typing styles. 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
37.5g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
43.5g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Ly
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
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Milk Tea and the HMX Xinhai differ significantly in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The Milk Tea's POM top and bottom housings create a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Xinhai's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound. The use of POM in the Milk Tea results in a unique sound, whereas the polycarbonate in the Xinhai provides a clear and resonant sound due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the Xinhai's top housing is especially beneficial for RGB lighting, offering a visually appealing aspect to the switch.
In terms of sound characteristics, the bottom housing materials also differ between the two switches. The Milk Tea's POM bottom housing contributes to its deep and muted sound profile, while the Xinhai's nylon bottom housing creates a fuller and rounder sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller sound compared to the more resonant sound produced by POM. These differences in bottom housing materials further enhance the distinct sound profiles of the Milk Tea and the Xinhai switches.
Despite their differences, both switches showcase how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the sound profile of a mechanical keyboard switch. The split between the top and bottom housings allows for a unique blend of characteristics - with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. Whether it be the deeper and more muted sound of POM in the Milk Tea or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate in the Xinhai, each housing material plays a crucial role in defining the overall typing experience of these switches.
Weight
When comparing the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, we find that both switches have relatively similar characteristics. The Milk Tea has an actuation force of 37.5 grams and a bottom out force of 43.5 grams, while the Xinhai has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. Both switches have a light actuation force, making them suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. However, the Xinhai has a slightly higher bottom out force, providing a slightly more substantial typing feel compared to the Milk Tea. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Milk Tea switch has a slightly longer travel distance, giving it a bit more depth when pressing down on a key compared to the Xinhai switch. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those looking for a quicker response time. Gamers may prefer the Milk Tea switch for its slightly longer travel distance, which can provide a more satisfying feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a more responsive and quicker key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The PH Studio Milk Tea has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milk Tea for $4.00.
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 $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 PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch is best described as offering a high-pitched, clacky sound profile with a touch of marbly resonance, creating a sharp yet subtle auditory experience. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch is known for its clacky sound, providing a crisp and percussive tone. While both switches offer a clacky sound profile, the Milk Tea adds a unique marbly resonance, while the Xinhai focuses on a crisper, brighter sound. Depending on personal preference and system setup, users can expect a slightly different sound experience with each switch.
Moving on to feel, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch is praised for its polished and silky typing experience, showcasing a smooth and refined finish that reduces friction and enhances key travel comfort. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai linear switch is known for its bouncy and creamy feel, offering a spring-like feedback and a buttery, easy keystroke sensation. While the Milk Tea emphasizes a polished and silky typing experience, the Xinhai highlights a bouncy and creamy feel, each contributing to a distinct tactile experience for users. Depending on individual typing preferences, users can opt for the switch that aligns with their desired tactile feel.
Considering the available information, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch offer unique combinations of sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The Milk Tea provides a high-pitched, clacky sound with a polished, silky feel, ideal for those seeking a balance between gentle typing and refined finish. On the other hand, the Xinhai presents a crisper clacky sound with a bouncy, creamy feel, appealing to users looking for a livelier typing experience. Whether you choose the Milk Tea or the Xinhai, both switches promise a distinctive typing experience that can elevate your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, keep in mind the unique characteristics of each. Choose the Milk Tea if you prefer a light and effortless typing experience with a balance of presence and subtlety in sound. This switch is perfect for prolonged typing sessions and offers a polished and silky feel. On the other hand, opt for the Xinhai if you enjoy a crisp and clacky sound profile with a bouncy and creamy typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel, as both offer their own distinct qualities to enhance your typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
