Haimu Orange Sea vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the Haimu Orange Sea and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Haimu Orange Sea and HMX SU offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences and experiences. The Haimu Orange Sea is famed for its impeccably smooth typing feel and neutral sound signature, making it an ideal choice for users who value a seamless and distraction-free experience while typing. Its categorized traits of being "Accented" and "Invigorating" may appeal to those who seek a lively yet controlled keystroke. In contrast, the HMX SU features a full PA12 housing and a T5 stem, offering a subtle yet relatively deep sound profile. While it may not come with the same intentionally crafted acoustic qualities as the Orange Sea, its solid build and feel are designed for durability and performance. Both switches are linear in nature, providing a consistent actuation without tactile bumps; however, their sound and feel can greatly influence the typing experience. 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
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T5
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
22mm extended double-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Haimu Orange Sea and the HMX SU switches, one of the most significant distinctions lies in their top housing materials. The Haimu Orange Sea employs polycarbonate for its top housing, which contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its rigidity. This stiffer plastic allows for more clarity in the sound produced, making it particularly effective for users who prioritize high-pitched notes and resonance, especially when utilizing RGB lighting. In contrast, the HMX SU uses nylon for its top housing, which results in a distinctly different auditory experience. Nylon is a softer plastic that tends to absorb more sound, leading to a deeper and rounder sound profile. Consequently, while the Orange Sea provides a more aggressive and bright soundscape, the SU offers a warmer and more subdued auditory output.
Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, leading to some similarities in their sound profiles. The nylon bottom housing in the Haimu Orange Sea contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its sound-absorbing qualities. The same can be said for the HMX SU, which also features nylon in its bottom housing, helping to create that rounder sound. Since the bottom housing greatly impacts the bottom-out feel and sound while typing, users can expect a similar tactile and auditory experience from both switches when bottoming out. Thus, while the top housings present contrasting characteristics, the bottom housings align them more closely in terms of acoustic performance.
In essence, the contrasting top housing materials of the Haimu Orange Sea and HMX SU create distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. Users who appreciate a brighter and sharper sound might gravitate towards the Orange Sea due to its polycarbonate top, while those who prefer a deeper tone may find the nylon top of the HMX SU more suitable. However, the use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches provides a level of auditory consistency, making them share common ground in the low-end sound experience. Overall, individuals seeking a full spectrum of sound may find joy in experimenting with both switches, as their varied top housings create unique and complementary sound signatures.
Weight
When comparing the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, we see notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Orange Sea features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it an appealing choice for users who prefer a softer touch and longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the HMX SU has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, offering a more substantial feel when typing, which some users may prefer for a firmer response. As a result, if you're looking for a switch that allows for ease and comfort during extended use, the Orange Sea would be the better option. However, for those who appreciate a stronger tactile feedback, the HMX SU would suit their needs better. Thus, while both switches are on the lighter end of the spectrum, the Orange Sea is the lighter of the two, whereas the SU represents a heavier option.
Travel distance
Both the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making their performance in terms of key press feel identical. Since the travel distance for both switches is the same, users can expect similar tactile feedback and responsiveness when typing or gaming. This means that whether you opt for the Orange Sea or the SU, you won't notice a difference in the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom, leading to a consistent experience across both options.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU for $3.29.
The Haimu Orange Sea comes in at $2.79 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 Haimu Orange Sea switches produce a neutral sound signature, making them relatively quiet and unobtrusive during typing. This quality allows them to blend seamlessly into various environments without causing distraction. On the other hand, the HMX SU linear switches generate a subtle, relatively deep sound profile due to their full PA12 housing and T5 stem. This depth gives them a more pronounced auditory feedback that some users may find satisfying, although both switches can be further influenced by the keyboard build and keycap materials chosen.
When it comes to feel, the Orange Sea switches offer an impeccably smooth typing experience with characteristics that can be described as invigorating and accented. They provide a prominent amount of tactility without overwhelming the typist, coupled with a snappy and reactive feedback that enhances the immersive typing sensation. In contrast, the feel of the HMX SU switches is not defined in the provided information, leaving some uncertainty regarding their tactile characteristics. Nevertheless, users can expect a relatively smooth feel from both switches, as is typical for linear options.
Considering the overall qualities, the Haimu Orange Sea and the HMX SU linear switches cater to somewhat different preferences when it comes to sound and feel. The Orange Sea excels with its smooth typing experience and neutral sound profile, aiming for a versatile and adaptable performance. In contrast, the SU's deeper sound may appeal to those who appreciate a more resonant auditory feedback. If one is looking for an immersive experience with the Orange Sea's invigorating characteristics, there is a potential for a satisfying yet subdued typing environment with the SU, especially in terms of their linear nature. Ultimately, personal preference will guide the decision, but both switches are likely to deliver commendable results in their respective strengths.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Haimu Orange Sea and HMX SU linear switches ultimately depends on your specific preferences regarding feel and sound response. If you’re looking for an exceptionally smooth typing experience combined with a neutral sound profile, the Haimu Orange Sea is an excellent choice. Its lighter bottom-out force of 45 grams makes it ideal for those who prefer effortless keystrokes and a satisfying linear feel without any tactile bump. This switch is particularly suitable for long typing sessions where comfort is key and helps maintain focus without being too distracting. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly more pronounced typing experience with a subtle yet deeper sound profile, the HMX SU linear switch might be more to your taste. With a bottom-out force of 50 grams, the SU offers a firmer actuation and a unique tactile feel that may appeal to those who enjoy more feedback in their typing experience. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you prioritize the smooth, lightweight experience of the Orange Sea or the invigorating, slightly deeper-toned response of the HMX SU. Each switch offers a distinctive experience that caters to different typing styles and preferences, ensuring you can find the perfect fit for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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