Outemu Brown vs. HMX Xinhai

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Brown and the HMX Xinhai offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Outemu Brown is a tactile switch, providing a satisfying bump feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai is a linear switch, offering a smooth and consistent typing experience without any tactile feedback. If you prefer a switch that gives you a tactile response while typing, the Outemu Brown would be the ideal choice. However, if you prefer a quieter and smoother typing experience without any bumps, the HMX Xinhai would suit your needs better. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Brown Tactile

HMX Xinhai Linear

$3.10 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Outemu Brown and the HMX Xinhai switches share similarities in terms of using polycarbonate for the top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Both switches benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate, making them ideal for RGB lighting setups. However, where they differ is in the material used for the bottom housing. The Brown utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound due to the softer plastic absorbing more sound. Meanwhile, the Xinhai also opts for a nylon bottom housing, emphasizing a similar sound profile that is duller and rounder compared to the sharper top housing.

While the top housing of both switches contributes to the overall sound profile, the material used for the bottom housing plays a significant role in the feel and impact of typing on the switch. The differences in the materials used for the bottom housing between the Brown and Xinhai switches result in slightly varied sound profiles, with the Brown offering a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Xinhai's rounder and duller sound. This distinction affects the tactile experience of typing on each switch, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Despite these differences, both switches offer a unique typing experience with their combination of materials in the housing.

In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches such as the Outemu Brown and the HMX Xinhai significantly impacts the sound and feel of typing. While both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing to achieve a sharp and crisp sound profile, the use of nylon in the bottom housing creates varying depths and fullness in the sound. The split between the top and bottom housings allows for distinct tactile experiences when typing on each switch, with the bottom housing playing a crucial role in the overall feel. Ultimately, the differences in housing materials between the Brown and Xinhai switches offer users a choice in sound profile and typing experience based on their preferences.

Weight

In comparing the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Outemu Brown has a higher actuation force of 53 grams and a higher bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing feel. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams, resulting in a lighter typing experience. The difference in weight between the two switches caters to individuals with different preferences. Some may find the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Xinhai more comfortable for extended typing sessions, while others may prefer the stronger push feel of the Brown for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for the typing experience desired.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is evident that the Xinhai has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm while the Brown has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Xinhai's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Brown's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth to the keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance, with the Xinhai offering a shorter option for quick keystrokes and the Brown providing a longer option for a more deliberate typing experience. Both switches offer different advantages, so it is important to consider your own typing style and preferences when selecting between them.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch offer different auditory experiences. The Outemu Brown is known for producing a soft sound, while the Xinhai is described as clacky. The Xinhai's unique PA12 top housing and POM stem create a sharper, crisper sound that is both bright and percussive. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is subjective and can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard casing and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Outemu Brown and HMX Xinhai switches also diverge in their tactile feedback. While the specific tactile sensation of the Outemu Brown is not described, the Xinhai switch is noted for its bouncy and creamy feedback. The bouncy feel provides a spring-like response, giving keys a lively sensation with a noticeable rebound. Additionally, the creamy component offers a smooth and buttery typing experience, akin to effortlessly gliding fingers across the keys. This silky sensation can enhance the overall typing comfort and precision.

Overall, the Outemu Brown and HMX Xinhai switches offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. Depending on personal preferences, users may prefer the sharp and snappy sound of the Xinhai switch or the potentially quieter sound of the Outemu Brown. Likewise, the choice between a bouncy and creamy tactile feedback can significantly impact the typing experience. Those seeking a more lively rebound may opt for the Xinhai, while individuals desiring a smoother keystroke may lean towards the Outemu Brown. Ultimately, both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, ensuring a customizable and enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience.

Conclusion

In summary, when choosing between the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, consider your personal preferences in terms of typing experience. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a traditional tactile feel without any specific standout features, the Outemu Brown switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a switch with a unique acoustics profile and a crisp, clacky sound, as well as a bouncy or creamy feel providing a lively and smooth typing experience, then the HMX Xinhai linear switch would likely be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your typing style and what features you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Brown Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

HMX Xinhai Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more