Cherry MX Purple RGB vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options stand out: the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy). The Cherry MX Purple RGB is celebrated for its refined tactile experience, featuring a short, medium-strength bump that strikes a balance between feedback and comfort, making it an excellent choice for typists who appreciate that satisfying notification with each keystroke. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), a linear switch, provides an entirely different feel; it is crafted with a unique PA12 top housing for softer acoustics and a POM stem that delivers a crisp, higher-pitched resonance. This makes the Xinhai ideal for gamers who prefer smooth key presses without tactile interruptions. While the MX Purple excels in providing tactile feedback, the Xinhai Heavy offers uninterrupted keystrokes for fast-paced gaming. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that meets your unique preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62.5g
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), one notable similarity stands out: both switches employ nylon for their top and bottom housings. This choice of material is significant because nylon is well-known for its favorable acoustic properties. Specifically, both switches benefit from the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs sound more efficiently than harder plastics. As a result, both switches are likely to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, a characteristic that typists often appreciate. The rounded and dulled sound produced when typing on these switches contributes to a more pleasant typing experience, aligning the acoustic expectations across both models.
In terms of design and tactile feedback, the consistency of nylon as a housing material also affects user experience similarly for both switches. While specific designs may vary between brands, the composition of the nylon used in both the MX Purple RGB and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) suggests they share comparable characteristics when pressed. Since the bottom housing significantly influences the overall feel and sound upon bottoming out, typists can expect a consistent performance when comparing the switches from a tactile perspective. This uniformity in material choice ensures that both switches will deliver similar satisfaction to users seeking a luxurious typing feel.
It is also essential to acknowledge that while both switches use the same material, they might differ in other design aspects, such as key travel distance, actuation force, or switch design (linear, tactile, or clicky) that could subtly influence the overall typing experience. However, the identical nylon top and bottom housings do mean that, regardless of other differences, typists can anticipate a similar acoustic signature and tactile response when using either switch. Thus, those looking to explore options among these mechanical switches can rest assured that they'll achieve a satisfying sound profile and tactile consistency thanks to the shared nylon materials.
Weight
The Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch present contrasting actuation forces and bottom-out characteristics. The MX Purple RGB requires a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a softer touch, beneficial for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch has a firmer actuation force of 55 grams, aligning with those who favor a more substantial typing experience. When it comes to bottom-out force, the MX Purple RGB's bottom-out force is unknown, whereas the Xinhai (Heavy) has a defined bottom-out force of 62.5 grams. This indicates that the Xinhai switch not only requires a heavier actuation force but also provides a stronger resistive feel when fully pressed down. Consequently, users seeking a lighter option may gravitate towards the Cherry MX Purple RGB, while those who appreciate a heavier tactile feedback should consider the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, a clear distinction emerges. The Cherry MX Purple RGB features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Cherry MX Purple the optimal choice for those who prefer a more substantial keystroke, offering a traditional and hearty depth to their typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) is better suited for users who favor quicker responses, as shorter travel distances like 3.4 mm can enhance speed and swift keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on individual preferences for tactile feedback and response times.
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 (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 $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
In terms of sound, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches produce a refined auditory experience characterized by a tactile bump, which creates a satisfying click without being overly loud. This makes it a balanced choice for typists who desire feedback without the excessive noise that some switches can produce. Conversely, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch offers a different sound profile; its PA12 top housing contributes to softer acoustics, while the POM stem produces a distinctively crisp and higher-pitched resonance. The resulting sound is more subdued compared to the Cherry MX Purple RGB, making it suitable for quieter environments or offices where noise levels may be a concern.
When it comes to feel, the Cherry MX Purple RGB provides a gratifying tactile sensation with its medium-strength bump, developed to enhance the overall typing experience while maintaining an intuitive responsiveness. This makes it particularly appealing for users who appreciate a tactile switch but don’t want overly aggressive feedback. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch, being a linear variant, lacks a tactile bump and instead offers a smooth keystroke that many users find appealing for rapid keystrokes and gaming. The heavier actuation force of the Xinhai switch lends to a more grounded feel, which some typists and gamers may prefer for precision and control.
In conclusion, while the Cherry MX Purple RGB and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches offer distinct auditory and tactile experiences, they cater to different preferences. The MX Purple RGB provides a refined tactile feedback with a satisfying sound, perfect for typists needing a blend of feedback and relatively low noise. Meanwhile, the Xinhai (Heavy) stands out with its smooth and crisp sound, making it ideal for those who prefer linear switches and softer acoustics. Depending on the characteristics that matter most to you—be it sound profile, tactile feedback, or actuation force—either switch can provide an excellent typing experience tailored to your needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, consider your intended usage and personal preferences. If you appreciate a tactile feedback with a responsive bump that enhances your typing experience, especially for gaming or fast typing, the Cherry MX Purple RGB is a compelling choice. Its medium-strength bump can make each keystroke feel satisfying and engaging, while the RGB feature allows for customization to suit your aesthetic. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, uninterrupted keystroke with more weight behind each press, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) is likely the better option. Its 62.5 grams bottom-out force gives you a firmer feel which many typists and gamers appreciate for its precision. Additionally, the acoustic profile created by the unique materials makes the Xinhai (Heavy) appealing if you value sound quality alongside performance. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you favor tactile feedback and customization or a heavier, linear feel with a refined acoustic characteristic.
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