Cherry MX Silent Red vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Silent Red and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When evaluating mechanical keyboard switches, both the Cherry MX Silent Red and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) present appealing options for users who prefer linear switches, yet they cater to distinct preferences and environments. The Cherry MX Silent Red is renowned for its ability to deliver the satisfying, smooth keystrokes characteristic of classic linear switches while maintaining a muted sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those in noise-sensitive spaces. Its slightly heftier feel and textured key feedback contribute to a more enjoyable and controlled typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) stands out with its unique construction, featuring a PA12 top housing that enhances the acoustics and a POM stem that provides a crisp, higher-pitched resonance. This switch embodies a blend of subtle sophistication and precise performance, appealing to users who appreciate tactile feedback without the noise. Both switches have their strengths, depending on your typing environment and personal preference; 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
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62.5g
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
The Cherry MX Silent Red and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches both utilize nylon as their housing material, reflecting the classic choice for mechanical keyboard switches. The nylon top and bottom housings in both switches are consistent, allowing for a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. This characteristic is derived from nylon's relatively softer plastic composition, which is adept at absorbing sound waves compared to harder plastics. Consequently, both switches produce similar auditory results that make for a quieter typing experience, further enhanced by their silent mechanics which reduce noise generated from bottoming out and releasing the key.
In the context of typing feel, the shared nylon housing of both switches again indicates a parallel experience for users. As users press down, the softer nature of the nylon bottom housing contributes to a cushioned feeling, with the bottom-out sound being relatively subdued. The same material utilized in the top housing ensures that the release sound remains pleasantly muted. Therefore, whether a user experiences the MX Silent Red or the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), the tactile sensations and acoustic feedback during key presses will notably be alike, underscoring the advantages of nylon as a switch housing material in both instances.
Although both the Cherry MX Silent Red and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) share identical materials in both their top and bottom housings, this homogeneity means that users can expect a consistent performance and tonal quality. Each switch's overall sound signature benefits from the nylon's properties, with the split personal impacts—where the bottom housing influences bottom-out feel and sound, while the top housing impacts the sound upon release—creating an intricate balance. Thus, users can confidently select either switch knowing they will receive a similar aural and tactile experience, driven by the characteristics inherent to nylon as a switch housing material.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, we see notable differences in their characteristics. The Cherry MX Silent Red requires a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a softer touch, ideal for long typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch demands a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, appealing to users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Furthermore, while the bottom out force for the Cherry MX Silent Red is unspecified, the Xinhai Heavy has a defined bottom out force of 62.5 grams, indicating that it provides a firmer feedback upon bottoming out. Therefore, the MX Silent Red is the lighter option, while the Xinhai (Heavy) is the heavier switch, making them suitable for different user preferences regarding force and tactile feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, we find that the Silent Red has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Xinhai (Heavy) has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Silent Red offers a more pronounced keystroke depth, appealing to users who appreciate a fuller feel when typing or gaming. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch's shorter travel distance may cater to those looking for faster response times, which can be particularly beneficial in gaming situations. Ultimately, if you prioritize a deeper, more substantial key press, the Cherry MX Silent Red would be the preferable choice, whereas the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) might be ideal for users who favor a quicker keystroke action.
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 (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 $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 Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch is renowned for its muted operation, which makes it an ideal choice for quieter environments. It strikes a balance between a satisfying typing experience and minimal noise, producing a deep, thocky sound that contributes to its appeal. The key presses deliver a soft yet rich “thud” when activated, and its low-pitched profile adds a touch of bass-heavy resonance. Conversely, the sound characteristics of the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch are not explicitly detailed, making it difficult to draw a direct comparison. However, the unique design elements, including the PA12 top housing, suggest that it may also lean toward a softer auditory experience, but specific sound descriptors are unknown.
Regarding feel, the MX Silent Red offers a textured experience, which introduces a unique friction sensation during key presses. This texture contributes to the overall engagement of the typing experience, aiding users who appreciate tactile feedback while minimizing disruptive noise. The HMX Xinhai (Heavy) does not have its feel characteristics provided, so it's challenging to compare directly. However, if the design focuses on enhanced performance as suggested, it may feature a unique tactile experience, albeit one that remains unspecified.
In conclusion, both switches cater to users who prioritize a quieter typing environment, though they have differing, yet undefined, sound and feel characteristics. The MX Silent Red provides a well-rounded experience with its muted and thocky sound profile along with a textured key feel. The HMX Xinhai (Heavy) may complement this by offering a sophisticated sound profile and performance-oriented feel, but specifics lack clarity. Ultimately, those seeking a silent linear switch experience will find that both options can offer satisfying results, but the Cherry MX Silent Red provides a more transparent understanding of what to expect.
Conclusion
In summary, choosing between the Cherry MX Silent Red and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switches boils down to your specific preferences and the environments in which you intend to use your keyboard. If you find yourself in a noise-sensitive setting, perhaps an office or shared living space, the Cherry MX Silent Red is an excellent option. Its muted sound profile and quiet operation ensure that you can type without disturbing those around you, all while providing a smooth, satisfying experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a firmer typing feel with a bit more resistance, and are looking for a switch that can deliver a crisp sound with a heavy bottom-out force, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) is likely the better choice. Its heavier actuation can offer tactile feedback that many typists appreciate, especially if you spend long hours writing or gaming where precision matters. Ultimately, both switches have their unique benefits; selecting the right one will enhance your typing experience significantly based on your personal requirements and preferences.
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