Outemu Blue vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Outemu Blue and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, one of the key decisions you'll need to make is whether to go for a clicky switch like the Outemu Blue or a linear switch like the HMX Xinhai. The Outemu Blue is best known for its satisfying click sound and tactile feedback, making it a popular choice for typists who enjoy the auditory and tactile confirmation of key presses. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai is best known for its unique construction, featuring a PA12 top housing for a softer acoustics profile and a POM stem for a crisp, higher-pitched resonance. This switch offers a smooth and consistent typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a more linear feel. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics that cater 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
50g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Blue and HMX Xinhai switches, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. This material is especially useful for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for a visually appealing design. With both switches utilizing polycarbonate in the top housing, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and aesthetics.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Outemu Blue and HMX Xinhai switches differ. The Blue features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Xinhai also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing users with a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel. Despite the same bottom housing material, the slight variations in switch design may impact the overall typing experience.
Overall, while both switches share similarities in their choice of polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and resonant sound profile, the Outemu Blue and HMX Xinhai switches differentiate themselves through their choice of nylon for the bottom housing. Users can expect a deeper and fuller sound with the nylon bottom housing, as it absorbs more sound compared to stiffer plastics. Whether typing on the Blue or Xinhai, the combination of top and bottom housing materials will play a significant role in shaping the overall sound and feel of the switch.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is evident that the actuation forces and bottom out forces differ between the two. The Blue switch has a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Xinhai switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams. Additionally, the bottom out force for the Xinhai switch is 45 grams, while the bottom out force for the Blue switch is unknown. The weight of the switches plays a significant role in the typing experience, as lighter switches are preferred for longer typing sessions, while heavier switches provide a more substantial typing feel. Overall, the Xinhai switch is lighter in both actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Blue switch, offering a smoother and potentially more comfortable typing experience for certain users.
Travel distance
The Outemu Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Blue has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Xinhai. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Blue is more traditional, providing a deeper key press feel, while the 3.4mm travel distance of the Xinhai is slightly shallower, making it ideal for those looking for quicker response times, such as gamers. Both switches offer unique benefits based on their travel distances, with the Blue offering a more substantial feel and the Xinhai providing a faster response time. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
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 Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Blue clicky switch is well-known for its sharp and clicky sound when pressed, providing a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch is described as clacky, producing a crisp and percussive sound that adds a unique touch to your typing or gaming sessions. Depending on your personal preferences, the Blue switch may offer a more traditional clicky sound, while the Xinhai switch provides a distinctively bright and sharp resonance.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Blue switch delivers a tactile and clicky typing experience, with a noticeable tactile bump that enhances the overall feel of each keystroke. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai linear switch is described as bouncy, offering a spring-like feedback sensation that gives keys a lively and responsive feel. Additionally, the Xinhai switch is also described as creamy, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience that feels effortless and enjoyable. Depending on whether you prefer a more tactile and clicky feel or a smoother and bouncier sensation, you can choose between the Outemu Blue and HMX Xinhai switches to suit your typing style.
In conclusion, the Outemu Blue clicky switch and HMX Xinhai linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. If you enjoy a traditional clicky sound and tactile feedback, the Outemu Blue switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique clacky sound and a bouncy or creamy feel, the HMX Xinhai linear switch could provide a more satisfying typing or gaming experience. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths and characteristics, so choosing between them will depend on your individual preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, you should choose the Outemu Blue if you are looking for a switch with a distinct clicky sound and a light tactile feel. The Outemu Blue is perfect for those who enjoy the audible feedback and the satisfying click while typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience with a light actuation force, the HMX Xinhai linear switch is the ideal choice for you. With its bouncy and creamy feel, the Xinhai switch offers a unique typing sensation that combines precision and comfort. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics, so ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preference in sound and feel.
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