Gateron Oil King (V2) vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) each offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Oil King (V2) is celebrated for its buttery smooth keystrokes and a sound profile reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping, making it an ideal choice for typists seeking a rich, low-pitched, and creamy feel. Its lush sound and polished texture contribute to a satisfying typing experience that many enthusiasts crave. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), crafted with a unique PA12 top housing and a POM stem, emphasizes crispness and precision. This switch provides a higher-pitched resonance that appeals to those who appreciate subtle sophistication and a more pronounced auditory feedback. While the Oil King might be ideal for users who prefer a smoother, bassy typing experience, the Xinhai (Heavy) attracts those who desire a blend of performance and a refined sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), it is notable that both switches utilize nylon for their top housing. This results in similar acoustic properties, as nylon is well-regarded for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Its softer composition allows it to absorb sound more effectively, producing a duller and rounder tone that many users appreciate. Consequently, users of both the Oil King (V2) and the Xinhai (Heavy) may find that the typing experience includes a satisfying auditory component that enhances overall enjoyment. However, it is essential to recognize that while they share a similar top housing material, the differences in other components will influence their respective sound profiles.
In contrast, the bottom housing materials of the two switches differ significantly. The Gateron Oil King (V2) features a proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing, which is designed to provide a unique sound experience characterized by a pointed and higher-pitched sound profile. This clacky tone creates a distinct contrast to the fuller sound produced by the nylon top housing and is significant in shaping both the feel and sound when a key is pressed down. Meanwhile, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) maintains a nylon bottom housing similar to its top counterpart, which reinforces the deeper, rounder sound signature conveyed by the top housing. As a result, even though the two switches share nylon in one housing, they differ in their bottom housing materials, leading to varied auditory experiences.
Overall, the combination of these distinct materials underscores how the sound and tactile responses can differ in mechanical switches, even among those that use nylon for both their top housing components. Users can expect a more cohesive and rounded acoustical experience from the Xinhai (Heavy) due to its nylon construction in both the top and bottom, while the Oil King (V2) offers a pronounced contrast thanks to its INK blend bottom housing. Therefore, while the top housing of both switches provides a similar sound profile, their bottom housings lead to recognizable differences in sound characteristics when typing. Each switch has unique strengths, catering to the preferences of various users who might prioritize particular auditory feedback in their typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, both exhibit the same actuation force of 55 grams, which means they require the same amount of pressure to register a keystroke. This parity could lead to a similar typing experience under regular use, making both switches suitable for long typing sessions. However, the bottom out forces reveal a notable difference: the Oil King (V2) has a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Xinhai (Heavy) requires a slightly lighter 62.5 grams to fully press down. Thus, while both switches feel equally light during regular use (i.e., actuation), the Oil King (V2) provides a heavier bottom out sensation. As a result, those who prefer a more substantial tactile feedback when bottoming out may find the Gateron Oil King (V2) more appealing, whereas the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) may be favored by those who enjoy a lighter feel at the bottom of the stroke.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch is 4 mm, while the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch offers a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Oil King (V2) the longer option, catering to those who appreciate a more substantial depth when pressing keys, which may feel more satisfying to some users. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch, with its shorter travel distance, might be more appealing to gamers and users seeking quicker response times, as shorter switches are often associated with faster actuation. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches comes down to personal preference: if you enjoy a hearty feel with longer travel, the Gateron Oil King (V2) is the better choice, while the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) could provide the responsiveness preferred by many gamers.
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 Gateron Oil King (V2) comes in at $6.50 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Oil King (V2) offers a low-pitched and bassy experience that is comparable to the rich and mellow tones of a dark chocolate bar snapping. This gives it a warm and grounded auditory quality that many users find satisfying. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) has not specified sound characteristics in the provided information. However, it's important to keep in mind that the overall sound produced by both switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the materials of the keyboard case and the keycaps used.
When we consider the feel of the switches, the Oil King (V2) stands out with its creamy, silky, buttery, and polished typing experience. This means that typing on the Oil King provides an exceptionally smooth and controlled keystroke, making it feel almost effortless as fingers glide over the keys. The tactile response is enhanced by the lubricated design, resulting in a lush typing sensation. In contrast, there is no specific information provided about how the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) feels. As such, we cannot make direct comparisons regarding its tactile quality.
In conclusion, the Gateron Oil King (V2) shines with its low-pitched, bassy sound profile and exceptionally smooth, creamy feel, which makes it a popular choice among enthusiasts looking for a satisfying typing experience. The HMX Xinhai (Heavy), while offering an interesting premise with its unique materials, lacks specific sound or feel details in this context, leaving many of its subjective qualities unknown. For a newcomer, if you're drawn to richly textured sounds and an incredibly smooth typing feel, the Oil King (V2) would likely be a fulfilling option; however, exploring the Xinhai could be intriguing, yet its characteristics remain to be fully disclosed.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch should align with your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a medium-heavy actuation force combined with a rich sound profile that evokes a low, bassy tone, the Oil King (V2) might be your best bet. Its buttery smoothness and silky feel make it ideal for long typing sessions or intense gaming, allowing you to glide over the keys effortlessly while enjoying a satisfying acoustic experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter actuation force (62.5 grams) and aspire to a switch with a crisp and higher-pitched resonance, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) would be more suitable. Its sophisticated sound profile and precise performance can cater to those who appreciate nuanced auditory feedback and want a responsive typing experience. Ultimately, which switch you choose will depend on whether you're leaning towards the luxurious, creamy strokes of the Oil King or the refined, crisp sensation of the Xinhai.
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