Haimu Orange Sea vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Haimu Orange Sea and the HMX Xinhai 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 the HMX Xinhai present two intriguing options for those who prefer linear switches. The Orange Sea is celebrated for its impeccably smooth typing experience and neutral sound signature, making it ideal for users who prioritize a seamless and quiet keystroke, perfect for both gaming and typing tasks in shared environments. In contrast, the Xinhai switch offers a unique acoustic profile with its PA12 top housing that provides softer sounds, paired with a POM stem that delivers a distinctively crisp and higher-pitched resonance. This combination results in a bouncier, clackier feel that some users may find more satisfying, particularly in tactile feedback during extended typing or gaming sessions. While both switches excel in different aspects, choosing between them ultimately depends on your personal preferences for sound and feedback. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
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
22mm extended double-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Haimu Orange Sea and HMX Xinhai utilize distinct materials for their top housings, showcasing the impact of these choices on sound profiles. The Orange Sea's polycarbonate top housing promotes a sharper, higher-pitched sound, primarily due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. This material enhances clarity and resonance, making it a fitting choice for setups that incorporate RGB lighting, as the translucence of polycarbonate allows for vibrant illumination effects. In contrast, the Xinhai opts for a nylon top housing, which lends itself to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. The stark difference between polycarbonate and nylon for the top housing significantly alters the overall acoustics and aesthetic appeal of the switches in each keyboard.
When examining the bottom housing of these two models, a fascinating similarity emerges. Both the Orange Sea and Xinhai utilize nylon for their bottom housings. The characteristics of nylon—namely its softness—contribute to a uniform depth and fullness in the sound profile regardless of the differences seen in the top housings. This means that, while users will experience distinctive sound signatures when typing based on which keyboard is being used, they will note the similar qualities imparted by nylon’s sound-absorbing properties in both models. Therefore, the bottom-out sounds of the switches, influenced by the nylon material, would resemble each other in auditory depth.
In essence, while the Haimu Orange Sea and HMX Xinhai differ markedly in the top housing materials, their use of nylon for the bottom housing establishes a shared auditory foundation. The contrasting properties of polycarbonate and nylon for the top can be expected to result in a distinctive experience when the key is released, whereas the bottom-out feel and sound will be aligned due to both switches’ reliance on nylon. Ultimately, the combination of these materials leads to a nuanced typing experience that balances the sharper, more resonant qualities of the polycarbonate with the deeper, fuller tones of nylon in the bottoms. Thus, users seeking specific sound characteristics can choose their preferred model based on the nuanced interplay of the two materials.
Weight
When comparing the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it's interesting to note that both switches share identical specifications regarding actuation force and bottom out force. Specifically, both switches have an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, which classifies them as light switches. This similarity means that users can expect a comparable typing experience regardless of which switch they choose, as both will deliver a light touch for keystrokes. This makes them ideal for long typing sessions or gaming marathons, as the lighter force may reduce fatigue over time. In conclusion, since both switches have the same actuation and bottom out forces, they will provide similar results in terms of feel and performance, catering to those who prefer a lighter switch for comfortable prolonged use.
Travel distance
The travel distances of the Haimu Orange Sea and HMX Xinhai linear switches differ, with the Orange Sea featuring a travel distance of 3.6 mm, and the Xinhai at 3.4 mm. This makes the Xinhai the shorter option, allowing for potentially quicker response times that gamers often favor. In contrast, the Orange Sea, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, offering a satisfying depth while typing or gaming. Both switches reflect the modern trend towards shorter travel distances, although the Orange Sea provides a slightly deeper experience for users who appreciate a tactile depth in their keystrokes.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
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 switch is noted for its neutral sound profile, which contributes to a quieter and more subtle typing experience. This can be particularly appealing in environments where discretion is valued. Conversely, the HMX Xinhai switch possesses a distinctly clacky sound, characterized by a sharp and snappy auditory feedback. The crispness and higher-pitched resonance of the Xinhai would likely stand out in any setup, making it ideal for users who enjoy a more pronounced auditory response while typing or gaming. Ultimately, the sound experience will vary significantly depending on the keyboard platform and keycap material, but you can expect the Orange Sea to provide a muted performance compared to the more lively and resonant Xinhai.
When it comes to feel, the Haimu Orange Sea switches are recognized for their impeccably smooth typing experience, allowing for seamless movement across the keyboard. This smoothness is often sought after for extended typing sessions or gaming, where fatigue can be a concern. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai switch offers a unique combination of bounciness and creaminess, giving it a lively and responsive feedback with each keystroke. The bouncy quality provides an elastic sensation that can energize your typing, while the creamy texture enhances the overall experience with a silky glide often attributed to specific materials or factory lubrication. Overall, the Xinhai switch would deliver a more dynamic typing experience, which may appeal to users who enjoy a tactile and engaging environment.
In summary, the choice between the Haimu Orange Sea and the HMX Xinhai switches will largely depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel. The Orange Sea offers a smooth and neutral typing experience alongside a quieter sound signature, making it suitable for those looking for a more understated setup. In contrast, the Xinhai switch brings forward a vibrant auditory response with a lively and creamy feel, perfect for users who appreciate a more tactile and engaging typing experience. Both switches cater to different styles, and each will yield distinctly unique results, ensuring that there’s a suitable option for a wide array of typing preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Haimu Orange Sea and the HMX Xinhai linear switches, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prioritize a smooth and neutral typing experience with a quieter sound profile, the Haimu Orange Sea is the switch for you. Its 45-gram bottom-out force allows for a light touch that's ideal for extended typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more dynamic and engaging feedback with a crisp, clacky sound, and a lively feel to your keystrokes, then the Xinhai switch should be your choice. With its unique PA12 top housing providing softer acoustics and a POM stem that emphasizes a distinctively higher-pitched resonance, it offers a pleasant balance of sophistication and performance. Furthermore, the 'bouncy' and 'creamy' sensations of the Xinhai add an enjoyable tactile element that many users find appealing. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you value a smooth typing experience or a more intricate sound and feel profile.
Mentioned in this article
