Outemu Crystal Brown vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal Brown and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Crystal Brown and the HMX Xinhai mechanical keyboard switches, it is essential to note the distinct characteristics of each. The Crystal Brown is best known for its tactile feedback, providing a satisfying bump when pressed. On the other hand, the Xinhai is praised for its linear design, offering a smooth keystroke without any tactile feedback. While the Crystal Brown is categorized as a tactile switch, the Xinhai falls under the linear category but boasts unique features like a PA12 top housing for softer acoustics and a POM stem for a crisp, higher-pitched resonance. Each switch has its strengths and caters to different preferences, whether you prefer a bouncy and clacky feel of the Crystal Brown or the creamy smoothness of the Xinhai. 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
45g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Crystal Brown and the HMX Xinhai, both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Additionally, the clear housing of polycarbonate offers a visually appealing design element. However, while both switches share this feature, the Crystal Brown offers a unique nylon bottom housing that provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing.
Despite both switches using polycarbonate for the top housing, the Outemu Crystal Brown stands out with its nylon bottom housing. This classic switch housing material brings a distinct sound profile that is deeper and fuller compared to the crisper sound produced by polycarbonate. The split qualities of the housing materials in the Crystal Brown offer a unique typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound upon key release. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai features nylon for both the top and bottom housing, providing a consistent and rounded sound profile throughout typing.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Crystal Brown and the HMX Xinhai both incorporate polycarbonate in their top housing, the unique use of nylon in the Crystal Brown's bottom housing sets it apart in terms of sound profile. The distinct qualities of the housing materials in each switch contribute to a different typing experience, with the Crystal Brown offering a deeper and fuller sound compared to the crisper sound of the Xinhai. Despite these differences, both switches showcase the benefits of using polycarbonate for a sharper sound profile and clear aesthetic appeal.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is evident that the Xinhai is the lighter option. The Crystal Brown has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a medium-light switch. In contrast, the Xinhai has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, categorizing it as a light switch. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Xinhai more suitable for their typing needs, as it requires less force to activate a key press. Conversely, the Crystal Brown may appeal to those who prefer a bit more resistance for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer different levels of force, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences.
Travel distance
The Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Crystal Brown offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Xinhai, providing a more traditional feel when typing. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Xinhai switch. However, those who enjoy a deeper key press may find the longer travel distance of the Crystal Brown more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences 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 Crystal 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 Crystal Brown tactile switch is known for its quiet operation, making it a great option for those who prefer a more serene typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch is described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This distinctive sound profile can add a sense of energy and tactility to your typing sessions, giving each keystroke a satisfying auditory feedback. Ultimately, the sound produced by these switches will also be influenced by factors like the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Crystal Brown switch does not have a specific descriptor provided. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch is noted for its bouncy and creamy feel. The bouncy sensation provides a spring-like feedback, making each keypress feel lively and responsive. Additionally, the creamy feel offers a smooth and buttery typing experience, almost feeling as if your fingers are effortlessly gliding across the keys with a silky sensation. This combination of bouncy and creamy qualities can enhance the typing comfort and overall satisfaction for users who enjoy a more tactile experience.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Crystal Brown and HMX Xinhai switches offer different sound profiles and tactile feedback, they both provide unique qualities that cater to specific preferences. If you prefer a quieter typing experience with subtle tactile feedback, the Crystal Brown switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clacky sound profile along with a bouncy and creamy typing sensation, the Xinhai switch could be the ideal option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are seeking to achieve with your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier actuation force at 55 grams and a more traditional tactile typing experience, the Crystal Brown might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force at 45 grams, a clacky sound profile, and a bouncy or creamy typing feel, the Xinhai switch could be the perfect fit for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
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