Outemu Black vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)

Overview

When choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing options based on desired feel and performance characteristics. The Outemu Black, known for its smooth linear action, offers a consistent keystroke experience ideal for both gaming and typing without any tactile bump or auditory feedback, attracting those who prefer a minimalist and unobtrusive typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) stands out with its heavier actuation force and specialized construction featuring a unique PA12 top housing, which lends a softer acoustic profile alongside a POM stem that delivers a crisp, higher-pitched resonance. This switch highlights an appealing combination of refined sophistication and precise performance that caters to users who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience. While both switches fall under the linear category and provide a seamless actuation, they cater to different preferences when it comes to weight and sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Black Linear

HMX Xinhai (Heavy) Linear

$3.10 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the Outemu Black and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches, the materials used for their housings highlight both notable contrasts and striking similarities. The Outemu Black features a polycarbonate top housing, which is designed to produce a sharper, more resonant sound profile. The properties of polycarbonate allow for a clear and crisp auditory experience, particularly well-suited for RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) utilizes a nylon top housing, which contributes to a notably deeper and fuller sound profile. This distinction in materials means that while the Outemu Black thrives in clarity and brightness, the HMX Xinhai leans toward a warmer, more rounded acoustic experience.

In terms of the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon, which brings consistency to their sound profiles at that level. The nylon material in the bottom housing of both switches serves to absorb sound, leading to a more subdued auditory effect when the key is bottomed out. This means that, while the top housing materials create different characteristics, the shared nylon on the bottom ensures that both switches will provide a similar, softer sound quality during the key press itself. Consequently, while there's a divergence in sound profiles when the keys are released, the overall typing experience remains anchored in a rich, deep auditory context thanks to the nylon bottom housing.

Ultimately, the combination of housing materials in the Outemu Black and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches leads to a nuanced interplay of sound and feel. The polycarbonate top of the Black emphasizes clarity and resonance with RGB lighting, while the nylon housing of both switches creates a consistent background of warmth and depth. The differences become especially pronounced in how each switch behaves during the actuation and release of keystrokes, showcasing the importance of material selection in achieving distinct auditory profiles. Thus, despite their differences, enthusiasts can achieve enjoyable typing experiences from both, depending on their preference for sound clarity or fullness.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Black linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Outemu Black requires a heavier actuation force of 65 grams and has a bottom out force of 82 grams, giving it a markedly heavier feel overall. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) features a lighter actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, resulting in a more medium typing experience. This means that users who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing sessions or gaming may find the Xinhai more suitable, while those who enjoy the substantial feel of a heavier switch may opt for the Outemu Black. Ultimately, the Black is the heavier option, while the Xinhai (Heavy) provides a lighter and less strenuous experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Black linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, there is a notable difference. The Outemu Black has a travel distance of 4 mm, which adheres to the traditional travel distance and provides a more pronounced keystroke that some users may prefer for a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) features a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, which aligns with the trend towards quicker response times favored by many gamers. This shorter travel distance can lead to a more rapid actuation, but for some users, it might feel too abrupt compared to the more substantial depth of the Black switch. As a result, if you're looking for a switch that offers a heartier depth and a classic feel, the Outemu Black is the longer option, whereas the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) is the shorter choice, ideal for those who prioritize speed and responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Black linear switch is relatively quiet, making it a suitable choice for users who prefer a subdued typing experience. It tends to produce a minimal acoustic profile that allows for a discreet operation. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch offers a distinctively crisp and higher-pitched resonance thanks to its POM stem, which contributes to a softer acoustics profile due to its unique PA12 top housing. This combination creates a subtle sophistication in sound, appealing to those who enjoy a bit of auditory feedback without overwhelming noise.

In terms of feel, the Outemu Black switch offers a straightforward linear experience that is consistent throughout the keypress. Users can expect a smooth travel without any tactile bumps, making it ideal for fast typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) maintains that smooth linearity but enhances the typing experience with its heavier actuation force. This added weight may provide a more substantial feel under the fingers, which some users might find preferable for control and precision during typing or gaming.

In summary, while both the Outemu Black and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches offer linear experiences, they vary in sound and feel. The Black is known for its quiet operation, while the Xinhai (Heavy) enhances the acoustic experience with a crisper sound profile and a more substantial feel. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize subtlety or a more pronounced auditory and tactile experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Outemu Black linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you like a more robust key press and don’t mind the higher actuation force of 82 grams, the Outemu Black might be the ideal choice for you. This switch is well-suited for those who enjoy a solid and weighty feel while typing, potentially enhancing your typing accuracy and providing a satisfying tactile response. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch would cater to your needs, especially if you appreciate a crisp, high-pitched sound alongside a well-balanced performance. The Xinhai (Heavy) is crafted with unique materials that enhance acoustics and offer a distinct typing experience, making it a great option for both casual gamers and typists looking for sophistication and precision. Ultimately, consider what feels best for your hands, the types of activities you engage in, and the feedback you enjoy when selecting between these two linear switches.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Black Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

HMX Xinhai (Heavy) Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more