Bsun Olive vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Bsun Olive and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Olive tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it's important to note the distinctive characteristics that set them apart. The Olive switch is renowned for its resonant, deep sound due to the all-POM housing, offering pronounced tactile feedback and a sharp bottom-out feel. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch stands out with a softer acoustics profile from the PA12 top housing and a crisp, higher-pitched resonance from the POM stem. While the Olive switch is categorized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy', the Xinhai switch is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', and 'Creamy'. Each switch offers a unique experience, catering 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
45g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Olive and the HMX Xinhai are quite different in terms of the sound profiles they produce. The Olive's POM housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Xinhai's polycarbonate housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This difference in sound can greatly affect the typing experience for users, as some may prefer a softer and more muffled sound, while others may prefer a clearer and sharper sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the materials used for the housing of these switches also differ. The Olive's POM housing provides a solid and opaque look, while the Xinhai's polycarbonate housing offers a translucent appearance that is especially useful for users who want to utilize RGB lighting. This difference in appearance can greatly impact the overall look and feel of the keyboard, as some users may prefer a more subtle and classic look, while others may prefer a more modern and customizable design.
When it comes to the bottom housing material, the Olive boasts a POM housing that creates a deep and unique sound, while the Xinhai features a nylon bottom housing that produces a fuller and rounder sound. This difference in sound profile can affect the overall typing experience, as the bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has more of an impact on the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches offer a quality typing experience, albeit with distinct sound profiles.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Olive tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch differ significantly. The Olive has a medium-heavy actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Xinhai has a light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This makes the Xinhai switch lighter overall compared to the Olive switch. The actuation force determines how much force is needed to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the force required to press the key all the way down. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Xinhai switch, while those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Olive switch. In this case, choosing the lighter or heavier switch will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Bsun Olive tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch have a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, users will experience the same amount of travel distance. This similarity ensures that users will get similar results in terms of how the switch feels and performs. Both switches offer a moderate amount of travel distance, providing a satisfying typing experience without being too shallow or too deep. Overall, the travel distance of both the Bsun Olive tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch make them suitable choices for users looking for a consistent and comfortable typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Olive has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Olive for $4.70.
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
In terms of sound, the BSUN Olive tactile switch is best known for its resonant and deep sound, providing a satisfying auditory experience during use. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch is described as having a clacky sound, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. Depending on other factors such as the keyboard body and keycaps, the sound of these switches can be further influenced.
When it comes to feel, the BSUN Olive switch is recognized for its accentuated tactile feedback, invigorating typing sensation, sharp tactile bump, and snappy response. This combination offers a tactile experience that is not overwhelming yet distinctly satisfying. Conversely, the HMX Xinhai linear switch is described as bouncy and creamy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation and a smooth, buttery typing experience. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences that cater to different preferences in typing feel.
Overall, the BSUN Olive tactile switch stands out for its pronounced tactile feedback, deep sound, and sharp bottom-out, creating a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch offers a clacky sound, bouncy feedback, and creamy typing sensation, providing a different yet equally enjoyable typing experience. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different typing preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on whether you prefer a deep resonant sound and pronounced tactile feedback in the Olive, or a clacky sound and bouncy, creamy feel in the Xinhai.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Bsun Olive tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, your decision may come down to personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a medium-heavy tactile switch with pronounced feedback, a sharp bottom-out sound, and a satisfying feel, the Bsun Olive switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter linear switch with a softer acoustics profile, a distinctively crisp sound, and a bouncy or creamy typing experience, the HMX Xinhai switch could be more suited to your liking. Consider the sound, feel, and bottom out force of each switch to determine which aligns best with your preferences and needs for an optimal typing experience. Ultimately, the decision is yours to make based on what characteristics you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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