Outemu Dustproof Blue vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) provide two distinct experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The Outemu Dustproof Blue switch is celebrated for its clicky response, delivering an audible and tactile feedback that many typists find satisfying and engaging, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy a lively typing rhythm. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) offers a linear experience characterized by its smooth keypress without any tactile bump or click, which appeals to gamers and users who prefer a more fluid typing action. With its unique PA12 top housing, the Xinhai (Heavy) enhances acoustics for a more subdued sound profile while the POM stem contributes to its crisp feel, representing a stylish choice for discerning typists. Ultimately, each switch caters to different preferences: the clicky feedback of the Dustproof Blue for the tactile enthusiasts and the smoother action of the Xinhai (Heavy) for those seeking subtle performance. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on which switch is right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), a distinct contrast emerges between their top housings. The Outemu Dustproof Blue utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, providing a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that contributes to a clearer and more resonant auditory experience. This quality is attributed to polycarbonate's rigidity, which enhances the overall sound clarity, especially valuable for users looking to showcase RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) employs nylon for its top housing, resulting in a deeper, fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer characteristics act to absorb audio frequencies, leading to a more subdued and rounder tonal output compared to the crispness offered by polycarbonate.
While the top housings of these switches diverge significantly in terms of material and resulting sound profile, their bottom housings offer a different story. Both the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) feature nylon for their bottom housings, which yields a similar impact on the typing experience. The use of nylon in both cases contributes to a deeper and rounder sound due to its ability to absorb sound waves effectively. Thus, the typing experience on both switches will feel consistent in terms of sound absorption and impact, leading to a softened bottom-out sound for the user.
Ultimately, the differences in sound profiles generated by the top housings of the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) create a nuanced experience that is enhanced or muted depending on the approach taken with the switch design. The clearer and sharper sound from the polycarbonate top of the Dustproof Blue contrasts with the deeper tonal qualities exhibited by the nylon top of the Xinhai (Heavy). However, since both switches share the same nylon material for their bottom housings, users can expect a consistent bottoming-out feel and sound across both models, demonstrating how variations in housing materials can distinctly influence the overall auditory and tactile experience while still offering familiar characteristics through their shared components.
Weight
The Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch present a notable contrast in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Dustproof Blue requires an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Xinhai demands a slightly heavier 55 grams for the same purpose, indicating that the Blue switch is the lighter option for those who prefer less resistance while typing. When it comes to bottom out force, the Dustproof Blue has a bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the Xinhai's 62.5 grams. This reveals that although the Dustproof Blue has a higher bottom out force, it also requires less overall effort to actuate. Consequently, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch is better suited for extended typing sessions, while the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial feedback with a heavier feel when pressing the keys. Thus, while both switches have their merits, the Dustproof Blue offers a lighter touch at actuation, making it a favorable choice for prolonged use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, a notable difference emerges. The Dustproof Blue features a travel distance of 4 mm, which falls into the more traditional range and offers a substantial key press that many typists might prefer for its pronounced feedback. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, catering more to users who lean towards quicker response times, such as gamers who appreciate a snappier feel. With this distinction, the Dustproof Blue is the longer option, providing a deeper and more tactile experience, whereas the Xinhai (Heavy) offers a shorter travel that may feel more abrupt to some users. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether one prioritizes a deeper keystroke or a faster, more responsive actuation.
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 Dustproof 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
The Outemu Dustproof Blue switch has a distinctive auditory profile that is characterized by its clicky feedback, providing a satisfying sound that can be both engaging and pronounced during typing. This clicky nature adds a layer of tactile satisfaction, making it a popular choice for typists and gamers who enjoy audible confirmation with each keystroke. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch is designed with a focus on a smoother soundscape thanks to its unique PA12 top housing, which enhances softer acoustics. The POM stem contributes to a higher-pitched resonance that is crisp yet refined, resulting in a sound that is more subdued compared to the Dustproof Blue, appealing to users who prefer a quieter typing experience without losing clarity.
When considering feel, the Dustproof Blue switch is known for its tactile bump, which provides a distinct sensation that signals the actuation point. This tactile feedback can enhance typing accuracy and is especially appreciated by those who enjoy a more involved typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) offers a linear feel, meaning it lacks the tactile bump found in the Blue switches. This results in a smooth keypress from top to bottom, perfect for users who prefer fluidity during rapid key presses or gaming scenarios where consistent travel feel is crucial.
In summary, while both the Outemu Dustproof Blue and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches cater to different preferences, they offer unique auditory and tactile experiences. The Dustproof Blue excels in providing clear, clicky feedback with a pronounced sound, making it a solid choice for enthusiasts who thrive on auditory cues. Meanwhile, the Xinhai (Heavy) combines soft acoustics with a smooth linear feel, catering to users who desire a quieter environment without sacrificing performance. The choice between these switches ultimately comes down to individual preferences for sound and feel, ensuring that both types can deliver satisfying results in their respective styles.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, your specific typing needs and preferences will play a crucial role. If you enjoy the distinctive auditory feedback and tactile sensation that a clicky switch offers and you don’t mind a slightly heavier bottom-out force, then the Dustproof Blue might be the right choice for you, especially in environments where such clicks can be appreciated or admitted. However, if you prioritize a smoother and quieter typing experience with a touch of sophistication, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch, with its lower actuation force and tailored acoustics, is likely to suit your needs better. It’s particularly suitable for long typing sessions or environments requiring less noise without compromising on tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice depends on your personal typing style—whether you lean towards the nostalgic click of a tactile switch or the refined smoothness of a linear option.
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