Cherry MX Speed Silver vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the performance and feel of the switch can greatly influence both typing experience and gaming efficiency. The Cherry MX Speed Silver, renowned for its impressive responsiveness, boasts a linear action with low spring resistance, allowing for lightning-fast actuation that gamers particularly appreciate. With its full-height design, it ensures that even the smallest keystrokes can propel players to victory in the heat of battle. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch offers a different take on linear performance, featuring a unique PA12 top housing that provides a softer acoustic profile paired with a POM stem for a crisp, high-pitched resonance. This blend creates a typing experience that balances sophistication and precision, appealing to those who appreciate a nuanced feedback during use. While both switches cater to different preferences, with the Speed Silver aimed at competitive gaming and the Xinhai (Heavy) focusing on subtlety and elevated acoustics, understanding their distinct characteristics is essential. 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
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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 Speed Silver and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), it's clear that both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This commonality means that users can expect similar auditory experiences when typing on either switch. Nylon, recognized as a classic switch housing material, tends to absorb sound better than harder plastics. This characteristic results in a deeper, fuller sound profile, creating a satisfying typing experience characterized by a duller and rounder auditory feedback—an asset for those seeking a quieter yet impactful mechanical keyboard.
Delving deeper, both switches share identical descriptions of their housing materials, which allows for a nuanced understanding of how nylon contributes to their respective functionalities. In both the MX Speed Silver and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), the top and bottom housings are crafted from nylon, reinforcing the idea that the sound and feel associated with each switch will be closely aligned. When engaged, the impact of the bottom housing is particularly noticeable during bottom-out, while the top housing is likely to influence the sound as a key is released. Consequently, users can expect not only a similar auditory profile but also a comparable typing experience across both models.
While both switches utilize the same nylon material for their housings, this consistency underscores the inherent qualities of mechanical keyboard design. In scenarios where different materials are employed for the top and bottom housings, one could observe a more distinct split in sound and feel dynamics. However, due to the shared nylon composition in the MX Speed Silver and HMX Xinhai (Heavy), users can anticipate a cohesive typing experience, characterized by the unique sound profile and tactile feedback synonymous with nylon. This similarity makes both switches appealing options for enthusiasts and casual users alike who prioritize a rich sound experience combined with reliable performance.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, distinct differences emerge. The MX Speed Silver has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience, ideal for long work hours or lengthy gaming sessions. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai switch features a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, catering to users who enjoy a more substantial feel while typing. Additionally, the bottom out force for the MX Speed Silver is unknown, while the Xinhai switch has a medium bottom out force of 62.5 grams. This indicates that the Xinhai switch provides a firmer response when keys are fully pressed down, enhancing the tactile feedback for users who appreciate that push feel. Overall, the MX Speed Silver is the lighter option for users emphasizing comfort and prolonged usage, while the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) serves those seeking a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance for both the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch is the same, measuring 3.4 mm. This equivalence means that users can expect similar tactile feedback and key actuation dynamics when pressing down on either switch. As a result, enthusiasts and gamers alike will likely experience comparable performance in their typing or gaming sessions with either option, highlighting their design similarity in terms of travel distance. In this regard, both switches offer the same level of responsiveness due to their identical travel measurements.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
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
When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch offers a “thocky” acoustics profile, characterized by a deep, rich sound that resembles a soft "knock" or "thud" when the key is pressed and released. This low-pitched tone gives it a more bass-heavy and mellow sound compared to some of its higher-pitched counterparts, making it appealing for users who appreciate a strong auditory feedback while typing or gaming. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) features a unique acoustic design thanks to its PA12 top housing, which aims for softer acoustics. However, specific sound descriptions for the Xinhai switch are not provided, leaving some uncertainty about how it will compare sonically to the Speed Silver. Ultimately, both switches may produce a distinctive auditory experience, but the Xinhai's sound qualities remain unspecified.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is noted for its textured action, which adds a layer of friction to the keypress. While some users may enjoy this textured response that provides feedback during typing, it may not be to everyone's preference, especially for those who lean towards a sleek, smooth experience. On the other hand, details on the feel of the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) are not mentioned, leaving an unknown factor regarding its tactile attributes. Without this information, we cannot draw any comparisons or identify whether the Xinhai offers a similar textured response or a more fluid motion.
In summary, the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch is characterized by its thocky, low-pitched sound and textured feel, making it a favored choice for gamers seeking rapid and satisfying key presses. Meanwhile, while the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) aims for softer acoustics and is engineered for a potentially sophisticated performance, its sound and tactile qualities remain less defined. Therefore, those looking for a clear auditory feedback might certainly enjoy the Speed Silver, but for those drawn to the Xinhai, exploring their options might reveal a unique feel and sound once more detailed information becomes available.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch should reflect your specific priorities and preferences, particularly in relation to gaming versus general typing experiences. If you are a gamer seeking the ultimate in speed and responsiveness, the MX Speed Silver is likely your best bet, given its linear action and minimal spring resistance that allows you to register key presses almost instantly. The sound profile, characterized by its thocky and low-pitched tones, adds an appealing auditory feedback that many gamers appreciate. On the other hand, if you prioritize a more tactile and heavier feel for typing or enjoy the rich acoustics provided by the Xinhai (Heavy), you may find that its 62.5-gram bottom-out force offers just the right amount of resistance for precision and control. This switch also boasts a unique design that minimizes noise while still delivering a satisfying tactile experience. Ultimately, your decision will hinge on whether you value rapid activation for gaming or a robust typing experience with a touch of sophistication.
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