Haimu Neo White vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Haimu Neo White and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Haimu Neo White and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) embody the best of linear designs but cater to different preferences among typists and gamers alike. The Neo White switches are recognized for their medium weight and slightly reduced total travel distance, which collectively lend a distinctive feel to each typing experience. Their unique Ly stem ensures a remarkably smooth actuation, allowing for a pleasant and satisfying keystroke. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch takes a bolder approach, featuring a heavier feel complemented by a PA12 top housing that produces softer acoustics and a POM stem for a crisp, higher-pitched sound. This combination offers a more robust typing experience, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial feedback. While the Neo White is ideal for those seeking a mild yet neutral typing experience, the Xinhai (Heavy) caters to individuals who desire a blend of sophistication and precise performance. 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
N/A
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Haimu Neo White and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), the distinct properties of their top housings stand out. The Neo White features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, thus enhancing the clarity and resonance of each keystroke. Its translucency also makes it an ideal choice for RGB lighting setups, as the light passes through effectively, contributing to a visually striking aesthetic. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) incorporates a nylon top housing. While nylon is a classic in switch design, it tends to produce a deeper, fuller sound due to its softer qualities that absorb sound, resulting in a more subdued auditory feedback. This fundamental difference in the top housing materials signifies that while both switches may excel in sound quality, the Neo White leans towards crispness, whereas the Xinhai (Heavy) focuses on warmth and depth.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Haimu Neo White and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) utilize nylon for their constructions. This shared material choice means that both switches will likely deliver similar characteristics in terms of sound. Given that nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound, both switches will produce a more muted and rounded acoustic profile on the bottom side. Consequently, users can expect a consistent deeper feel and feedback when bottoming out the switches. This similarity ensures that, regardless of the difference in top housing materials, the experience when pressing the key down remains fairly uniform across both switch types.
Overall, the combination of the different top housing materials fundamentally shapes the auditory experience each switch provides, while the shared nylon bottom housing contributes to a harmonious consistency in sound quality during key presses. If you are seeking a sharper and more resonant experience, the Haimu Neo White is clearly the more suitable option. Conversely, if you prefer a richer and warmer sound, the Xinhai (Heavy) will fulfill that need effectively. However, both switches promise a satisfying keystroke experience that reflects their thoughtful design and materials, inviting users to appreciate both the unique attributes of each switch and the mutual benefits of their nylon components.
Weight
When comparing the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Haimu Neo White has an actuation force that is unknown but features a bottom out force of 58 grams, while the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) has a defined actuation force of 55 grams and a slightly greater bottom out force of 62.5 grams. This makes the Neo White switch's bottom out force lighter than that of the Xinhai. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Neo White could be more appealing due to its unknown actuation force, which may allow for less effort in keystrokes, making it suitable for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. Conversely, the Xinhai (Heavy) offers a stronger push feel, which could be preferable for users desiring more substantial feedback while typing. Overall, the Neo White may provide a lighter experience, whereas the Xinhai (Heavy) caters to those who appreciate a heavier switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, we find that the Neo White has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Xinhai (Heavy) offers a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that if you are looking for a switch that provides a deeper key press and potentially a more cushioned feedback, the Neo White would be the preferable choice. Conversely, if you prefer a more responsive feel that allows for quicker key presses, the Xinhai (Heavy) may cater to your needs well due to its shorter travel distance. Both switches, however, fall within the range of modern key switches designed for varying preferences, making them suitable for different types of users. Ultimately, the choice between them hinges on whether you prioritize depth or responsiveness in your typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Haimu Neo White comes in at $2.70 per 10 switches.
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 Haimu Neo White switch is characterized by its neutral acoustic profile. This means it has a moderate actuation force and produces a balanced sound, making it versatile for a wide range of environments, from quiet home offices to bustling workplaces. Its sound dynamics are well suited for both beginners and seasoned typists who seek a comfortable auditory experience without overwhelming distractions. In contrast, details on the sound profile of the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch are currently unknown. However, it's important to remember that the sound produced by any switch can be significantly influenced by the type of keyboard it is used with and the keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, the Neo White switches offer a mild typing experience. This gentle feel makes them a great option for users who prefer a softer, more approachable keypress, as the qualities of the switch maintain a pleasing balance that is not overly pronounced. Conversely, specific details about the feel of the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch are not available at this time, limiting direct comparison in this aspect.
Overall, both switches present different strengths that cater to varying preferences. The Haimu Neo White provides a stable acoustic and tactile experience that is accessible to users of all levels, offering a smooth and satisfying feel with its medium weight and reduced travel distance. Meanwhile, while the Xinhai (Heavy) promises a distinctive sound and potentially different tactile characteristics, the lack of specific information leaves some questions unanswered. If you're looking for a more refined auditory experience and solid tactile feedback, both switches can serve you well, but the final choice will depend on personal preference and how each switch integrates with your particular setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you value a smooth typing experience and are looking for a medium weight switch that offers slightly reduced total travel, the Neo White is an excellent choice. Its neutral sound profile and mild feel make it versatile for various environments, whether at home or in a professional setting. This switch is particularly suitable if you want a balance between comfort and performance, especially for typing or casual gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier actuation force and a distinct sound profile that offers a crisp, higher-pitched resonance, the Xinhai (Heavy) may be more appealing. The PA12 top housing provides a softer acoustic experience, making it a solid option for those who enjoy a more subdued auditory feedback while maintaining precise performance. In this case, the heavier bottom-out force might also cater to those who like a firmer feedback on key presses. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on whether you prioritize smoothness and versatility with the Neo White or a more pronounced auditory experience and firmer actuation with the Xinhai (Heavy).
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