Cherry Nixie vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Cherry Nixie and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry Nixie and HMX Xinhai are two popular options to consider. The Cherry Nixie is a linear switch known for its substantial heft and textured typing experience, blending tradition with modern innovation. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai offers a unique PA12 top housing for a softer acoustics profile and a POM stem for a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance. While the Nixie is categorized as 'Textured', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', the Xinhai is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', 'Creamy'. Each switch offers its own set of characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
63.5g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Cherry Nixie and the HMX Xinhai both utilize different materials for their top and bottom switch housings. The Nixie features a nylon top housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Xinhai incorporates a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile. While the Nixie's nylon bottom housing shares similar properties with its top housing in terms of sound profile, the Xinhai's nylon bottom housing also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, making it somewhat similar to the Nixie in this aspect.
In terms of aesthetics, the Xinhai's clear polycarbonate top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making it a visually appealing choice. The translucent nature of polycarbonate enhances the visual impact of the switch, especially in setups where lighting plays a significant role. Conversely, the Nixie's nylon top housing, while lacking in translucency, still offers a unique typing experience with its deep and full sound profile. Both switches showcase how different housing materials can impact not only the sound but also the overall look of the switch.
When considering the overall typing experience, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate housing materials in switches comes down to personal preference. The Nixie's nylon housings offer a more rounded sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a softer typing experience. On the other hand, the Xinhai's polycarbonate housings provide a sharper and clearer sound, catering to those who enjoy a more precise typing feel. Regardless of the housing material chosen, both switches showcase how the combination of top and bottom housing materials can influence the overall sound profile and typing experience of a switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, significant differences emerge. The Nixie boasts a heavier actuation force of 63.5 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Xinhai features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch. This divergence in force measurements offers users a choice between a more robust typing experience with the Nixie or a lighter, more effortless typing feel with the Xinhai. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Cherry Nixie linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Xinhai switch the shorter of the two. The Nixie's 4 mm travel distance falls into the more traditional range, offering a balance between depth and responsiveness. Gamers may prefer the Xinhai switch with its shorter travel distance for quicker response times. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance to feel abrupt. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.19.
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
The Cherry Nixie linear switch is renowned for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing users with a satisfyingly deep and bass-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch offers a unique clacky sound that is sharp, bright, and percussive, adding a distinctively crisp resonance to each keystroke. When it comes to feel, the Nixie switch is characterized by its textured sensation, offering users noticeable friction when typing. In contrast, the Xinhai switch provides a bouncy and creamy feel, with a spring-like feedback and a smooth, buttery typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Cherry Nixie and HMX Xinhai linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Nixie switch provides a thocky and low-pitched sound with a textured typing experience, while the Xinhai switch delivers a clacky sound along with a bouncy and creamy feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on the user's preference for sound profile and typing sensation. However, regardless of which switch is chosen, users can expect a high-quality typing experience tailored to their individual preferences.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a heavier typing experience with a deep, low-pitched sound, the Cherry Nixie switch may be the better choice for you. The textured feel of the Nixie can provide a unique typing sensation that some users appreciate. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter typing force with a crisp, clacky sound, the HMX Xinhai switch could be more suitable for you. The bouncy and creamy feel of the Xinhai offers a different tactile experience that some users may find more enjoyable. Consider your preferences for typing force, sound profile, and tactile feel when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different users, so choose the one that best aligns with your personal preferences for a satisfying typing experience.
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