Cherry MX Purple RGB vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the HMX Xinhai stand out for their distinct characteristics and user experiences. The Cherry MX Purple RGB is celebrated for its tactile feedback, providing a refined experience with a medium-strength bump that can enhance typing accuracy and satisfaction, especially for those who enjoy a tactile response with each keystroke. Developed in collaboration with keyboard enthusiast Glarses, it appeals to users who prioritize feel over speed in their typing or gaming experience. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai switch offers a linear experience, crafted with a unique PA12 top housing that contributes to a softer acoustic profile and a POM stem that delivers a crisp, higher-pitched resonance. This switch is ideal for those who prefer smooth, uninterrupted keystrokes that allow for quick actions in gaming or fast-paced typing without tactile feedback. While each switch caters to different preferences—one emphasizing tactile feedback and the other smoothness—understanding the intricacies of each can help you determine which switch best suits your personal needs. 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
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
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the HMX Xinhai share a crucial similarity: both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, allowing for a consistent acoustic profile across the two switches. Nylon, recognized as a classic switch housing material, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when typing. This is due to nylon's relatively soft nature that helps absorb sound, resulting in a duller and rounder tonal quality compared to harder plastics. Consequently, users of both switches can expect a similar auditory experience that encapsulates a rich, muted sound with a satisfying feedback characteristic of nylon switches.
While both switches boast identical nylon housing for both the top and bottom components, the distribution of sound characteristics is influenced by the specific design of each switch. The qualities inherent in the nylon material will contribute to the overall performance; however, the bottom housing typically plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and tactile feel when the key is pressed down. In contrast, the top housing's impact on sound is more pronounced during key release. Therefore, although both the Cherry MX Purple RGB and HMX Xinhai might offer similar sound profiles thanks to their nylon housings, the overall typing experience can feel distinct due to variations in switch design or other mechanical aspects beyond the housing material itself.
In conclusion, while both the Cherry MX Purple RGB and HMX Xinhai utilize nylon as their housing material, resulting in a similar sound resonance and typing character, the unique architectures of each switch may influence how these qualities are experienced. While users can enjoy a consistent auditory dimension from both options, they should also be aware of the nuances arising from design differences that might affect the tactile feedback and overall feel when typing. Thus, while the nylon allows for cohesive sound profiles, the switches can present varied experiences that cater to individual preferences in feel or response, illustrating how material choice, combined with design, plays a vital role in the performance of mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch with the HMX Xinhai linear switch, there are notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces that may influence a user's typing experience. The Cherry MX Purple RGB has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it a heavier switch that provides a more substantial feel, which could appeal to users seeking a more tactile experience. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai linear switch features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force that matches its actuation weight at 45 grams. Although the Cherry MX Purple RGB’s bottom out force is unknown, the heavier actuation force suggests it may lead to a more pronounced typing sensation compared to the lighter Xinhai switch. Users who prefer a lighter switch, such as the HMX Xinhai, might find it more comfortable for extended typing sessions, while those who favor a stronger push feel may opt for the Cherry MX Purple RGB. Overall, the differences in the actuation forces indicate that the Cherry MX Purple RGB is the heavier option, while the HMX Xinhai is lighter.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This difference means that the Cherry MX Purple RGB offers a more traditional typing experience with a deeper feel, making it ideal for those who appreciate a pronounced tactile feedback when pressing keys. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai, with its shorter travel distance, caters to gamers and users who favor quicker response times, allowing for faster keystrokes. Ultimately, if you prefer a more substantial key press, the Cherry MX Purple RGB would be the better choice, whereas the HMX Xinhai provides a snappier feel preferred by many in competitive gaming. Thus, the MX Purple RGB is the longer travel switch, while the Xinhai is the shorter option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
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
When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch features a refined auditory profile, designed to provide a well-balanced acoustic experience without being overly loud. While specific descriptors are not provided, it is typically less noisy than more aggressive switches, making it suitable for a variety of environments. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai linear switch boasts a clacky sound; described as sharp and snappy, it delivers a crisp, bright resonance with percussive qualities. This difference means that users seeking a more subdued auditory experience might prefer the MX Purple RGB, whereas those who enjoy pronounced and lively sounds during typing will be drawn to the clacky nature of the Xinhai.
Regarding feel, the MX Purple RGB is noted for its refined tactile experience characterized by a short, medium-strength bump that offers precise feedback on each keystroke. This makes it appealing to typists who enjoy discernible, controlled tactile sensations. On the other hand, the Xinhai linear switch brings a uniquely dynamic typing experience, described as both bouncy and creamy. The bouncy feedback creates a lively, elastic sensation with a pleasing rebound effect, while the creamy quality offers a smooth, buttery glide across the keys that makes typing feel effortless. This contrast suggests that those who favor tactile feedback will likely lean towards the MX Purple RGB, whereas users seeking fluid and responsive keystrokes may find the Xinhai's characteristics more enjoyable.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the HMX Xinhai linear switch cater to different preferences in both sound and feel. The Cherry MX Purple RGB provides a balanced auditory performance with a tactile feedback, appealing to those who prefer a more understated switch. On the other hand, the Xinhai stands out with its sharp, clacky sound and the unique combination of bouncy and creamy sensations, ideal for users who enjoy a lively typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and tactile feedback during use.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and use case. If you value a tactile response and enjoy the sensation of a defined bump with each keystroke, the MX Purple RGB is a great option, especially for typing and gaming scenarios where feedback is essential. Its medium-strength bump can enhance your typing accuracy and provide satisfying feedback that many typists appreciate. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, more fluid typing experience with a lighter touch, the HMX Xinhai linear switch is likely the better choice for you. The Xinhai's lower actuation force and bouncy feel deliver an effortless typing experience, making it suitable for prolonged use or gaming sessions where quick key presses are necessary. Additionally, if sound is a consideration for you, the Xinhai switch’s clacky sound can add an entertaining auditory layer to your experience, while the MX Purple RGB strikes a more nuanced balance between tactility and acoustic performance. Evaluate what aspects are most important to your typing experience, and you'll find a switch that best suits your needs.
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