Outemu Brown vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Outemu Brown and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Brown and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) present two distinct options catering to different preferences and typing experiences. The Outemu Brown is a tactile switch, offering a noticeable bump at the actuation point that provides a satisfying feedback for typists and gamers alike. This tactile response makes it a popular choice for those who enjoy a more engaged typing experience without the added noise of a clicky switch. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) is a linear switch, renowned for its smooth and uninterrupted keystrokes. Its heavier actuation force, combined with a unique PA12 top housing that enhances acoustics, makes it ideal for users who prefer a more subdued sound and a softer touch while typing. While each switch has its merits—whether it's the tactile feedback of the Brown or the smooth elegance of the Xinhai (Heavy)—the choice ultimately depends on what feels best for your personal typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
53g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
When comparing the Outemu Brown and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches, a key distinction lies in their top housing materials. The Outemu Brown utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sound profile that is sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper. This is largely attributed to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which enhances resonance and clarity. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) is equipped with a nylon top housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer properties that absorb sound. As a result, while the Outemu Brown may be preferable for those seeking a more vibrant auditory experience, the Xinhai (Heavy) might cater to users who favor a more rounded and subdued acoustical response.
Turning to the bottom housing materials, both switches incorporate nylon, which creates a consistent auditory effect across these key components. Like the Xinhai (Heavy), the Outemu Brown also features a nylon bottom housing, allowing for a uniform deep and full sound profile. The characteristics of nylon's absorption mean that both switches will provide an undercurrent of richness when typing, irrespective of the differences in their top housings. This parity in bottom housing material suggests that users will experience similar sound qualities when committing keystrokes, regardless of whether they are utilizing the Outemu Browns or the HMX Xinhai (Heavy).
Ultimately, the combined interaction between the top and bottom housing significantly influences the overall typing experience. Whereas the Outemu Brown’s polycarbonate top will render a bright, clean release sound, the nylon bottom will offset this with its absorbing properties, creating a balanced auditory feedback. Conversely, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) will present a smoother sound regardless of its nylon top, utilizing the same bottom material to maintain that deep richness. Therefore, while the sound profiles differ due to top-housing material choices, the end result for the user is a compelling synthesis of sound experiences grounded in the similarities of the bottom housings.
Weight
The Outemu Brown tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch present a nuanced comparison in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Outemu Brown requires an actuation force of 53 grams and features a bottom out force of 65 grams, classifying it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) demands a slightly higher actuation force of 55 grams but has a lower bottom out force of 62.5 grams, placing it in the medium range. This means that while the actuation forces of both switches are relatively close, the Outemu Brown has a heavier overall feel during bottoming out. For users who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Outemu Brown may be the better option, particularly for long typing or gaming sessions. Conversely, those who enjoy a slightly more substantial feel might gravitate toward the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) despite its marginally higher actuation force. Overall, the Outemu Brown is the heavier of the two in terms of bottom out force, while both switches remain fairly close in actuation force, leading to a somewhat similar typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, we find notable differences. The Outemu Brown boasts a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the traditional preference for deeper keystrokes. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) features a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, appealing to those who favor a more responsive experience typically preferred by gamers. This indicates that if you prioritize quick response times and a more abrupt feel, the shorter travel distance of the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) would be advantageous. Conversely, if you enjoy the feedback and depth associated with a longer keystroke, the Outemu Brown would be the better choice. Overall, the Outemu Brown switch stands out as the longer option at 4 mm, while the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) is the shorter option at 3.4 mm.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Xinhai (Heavy) 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 (Heavy) for $3.19.
The Outemu Brown 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 Brown switch is generally regarded as relatively muted compared to other tactile switches, allowing for a quieter typing experience that can be favorable in shared or office environments. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) is crafted to produce a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance thanks to its POM stem and PA12 top housing, which contribute to a softer acoustic profile. This combination lends the Xinhai switch a more pronounced and sophisticated sound signature, appealing to those who appreciate auditory feedback in their typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Brown switch features a tactile bump that provides a clear indication of actuation without being overly pronounced, allowing for a balanced typing experience ideal for both casual and serious users. Meanwhile, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) offers a linear feel which is favored by those who enjoy a smooth keystroke without any tactile feedback. This switch is designed for heavier key presses, allowing for a different kind of responsiveness that can enhance the feeling of control during typing or gaming.
Overall, both the Outemu Brown and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) cater to different preferences. The Brown appeals to those who value a tactile response with lower noise, making it suitable for quieter environments. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch, with its unique sound profile and linear characteristics, will attract users looking for a smooth and sophisticated typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize tactile feedback or smooth keystrokes, with each providing a distinctive experience while achieving desirable results in their own right.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch depends largely on your typing preferences and sound requirements. If you appreciate a tactile bump in your keystrokes that gives you noticeable feedback without being overly loud, the Outemu Brown would be a solid choice. Its medium-heavy force of 65 grams ensures a more pronounced feeling during typographical engagements, which can be particularly satisfying for typists who enjoy tactile responsiveness. However, if you prefer a smoother experience with a more subdued sound profile, the Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch is likely to serve you better. With a slightly lighter bottom-out force of 62.5 grams, this switch delivers a refined feel with its unique POM stem and PA12 housing, making it ideal for both gaming and prolonged typing sessions where repetitive key presses occur. The Xinhai is crafted for high-performance and offers a crisp resonance that stands out without the distraction of loud clicks. Therefore, consider your priorities—whether they are tactile feedback or a quieter, linear experience—to make the right choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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