Cherry MX Silent Red vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Silent Red and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Cherry MX Silent Red and the HMX Xinhai, both of which are linear switches. The Cherry MX Silent Red is well-known for its ability to provide a satisfying typing experience while operating silently, making it an ideal choice for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai stands out for its unique PA12 top housing and POM stem combination, which creates a softer acoustics profile and produces a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched sound. While the MX Silent Red is categorized as 'Muted', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Textured', the Xinhai is labeled as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', and 'Creamy'. Both switches have their own strengths and qualities, offering different typing experiences to cater to the preferences of different users. 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
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
In comparing the Cherry MX Silent Red and the HMX Xinhai, it is clear that they both use nylon for their bottom housing. This means that both switches will have a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the relatively softer plastic's ability to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While they may have similar sound profiles, the difference in the top housing material sets them apart. The MX Silent Red uses a nylon top housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when typing, while the Xinhai features a polycarbonate top housing, giving it a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile.
The aesthetic aspect of the housing materials also differentiates the MX Silent Red and the HMX Xinhai. The MX Silent Red's use of nylon in both top and bottom housing may result in a more classic and traditional appearance, while the Xinhai's polycarbonate top housing, with its translucency, allows for RGB lighting to shine through, giving it a more modern and visually striking look. The choice of housing material not only impacts the sound profile of the switches but also contributes to their overall design and appeal.
Ultimately, the choice between the Cherry MX Silent Red and the HMX Xinhai may come down to personal preference in both sound and aesthetics. While both switches offer a deep and full sound profile due to their shared nylon bottom housing, the MX Silent Red provides a softer and rounder sound with its nylon top housing, whereas the Xinhai offers a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing. Additionally, the visual appeal of the switches may also play a role, with the classic look of the MX Silent Red contrasting with the modern and RGB-friendly design of the HMX Xinhai.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, we find that the MX Silent Red has a higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Xinhai's 37 grams. However, the Xinhai has a heavier bottom out force of 45 grams, while the bottom out force of the MX Silent Red is unknown. This means that the Xinhai switch is lighter in terms of actuation force but heavier when it comes to bottoming out. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Xinhai switch may be the better option. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push may lean towards the MX Silent Red. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing feel.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distances of the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is evident that the Xinhai has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the 3.7 mm travel distance of the MX Silent Red. This means that the Xinhai offers a slightly quicker and more responsive typing experience due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers who prioritize speed and swift key presses may prefer the Xinhai for this reason. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red provides a slightly deeper key press with its longer travel distance, which may be more suitable for those who prefer a more deliberate and tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and desired typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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 MX Silent Red is known for its muted and thocky typing experience, providing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch is described as clacky, producing a sharp and percussive sound. While the MX Silent Red offers a quieter typing experience, the Xinhai switch provides a crisper and brighter sound profile. Both switches offer distinct sound characteristics that can enhance the typing experience based on personal preferences and environmental considerations.
In terms of feel, the MX Silent Red is noted for its slightly textured feel, adding a subtle friction when pressed. This can provide a tactile feedback that some users prefer. On the contrary, the Xinhai switch is described as bouncy and creamy, giving a spring-like elasticity and a smooth, buttery typing experience. The MX Silent Red offers a more traditional feel with its textured sensation, while the Xinhai switch provides a unique bouncy and creamy feel that can enhance typing comfort and accuracy for certain users.
Overall, the Cherry MX Silent Red and the HMX Xinhai linear switches offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The MX Silent Red excels in providing a quieter typing experience with its muted sound profile and textured feel, while the Xinhai switch stands out for its clacky sound and bouncy, creamy feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style, both switches offer unique benefits that can elevate the typing experience. Whether opting for the quiet and textured MX Silent Red or the crisp and bouncy Xinhai switch, users are sure to enjoy a premium mechanical keyboard experience with either choice.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, you should consider your preference for sound and feel. If you prioritize a quieter typing experience in noise-sensitive environments, the MX Silent Red is the better choice with its muted and thocky sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncier and creamier typing sensation, the Xinhai switch offers a different tactile experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize sound or feel in your mechanical keyboard switch preference. Both switches have their unique characteristics, so choose the one that aligns best with your preferences.
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