Outemu Dustproof Brown vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the HMX Xinhai offer unique advantages for different types of users. The Dustproof Brown is best known for its tactile feedback, providing a satisfying sensation when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch stands out for its linear design, which offers a smooth and consistent typing experience. While the Dustproof Brown is ideal for those who prefer a more pronounced tactile response, the Xinhai switch caters to users looking for a smoother keystroke without any tactile bump. 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
65g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the HMX Xinhai utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, providing a sharp and clear sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, which enhances resonance and creates a distinct sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, making it a popular choice for mechanical keyboards seeking a visually appealing design. With both switches utilizing polycarbonate for their top housing, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and aesthetics.
While the top housing of both switches shares the same material, their bottom housings differ in composition. The Dustproof Brown features a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and more full sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs sound better than harder plastics, resulting in a rounder and less sharp sound when typing. Similarly, the Xinhai also incorporates a nylon bottom housing, offering users a similar typing experience with a deeper sound profile and softer feel compared to switches with harder bottom housings.
In terms of functionality, the split between the top and bottom housing materials in each switch allows for a balanced typing experience. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housing materials ensures that users can enjoy a well-rounded typing experience with both the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the HMX Xinhai, each offering unique sound profiles and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is evident that the Xinhai is the lighter option with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Dustproof Brown is the heavier option with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. The Xinhai provides a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Dustproof Brown offers a more substantial push feel, which some may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Both switches provide different levels of resistance, allowing users to choose based on their preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether the user prefers a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, we see that the Dustproof Brown has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Xinhai has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Dustproof Brown has a slightly longer travel distance, making it better suited for those who prefer a deeper, more tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Xinhai's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers or those looking for a faster response time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. Whether you choose the shorter or longer travel distance, both switches will provide a satisfying typing experience.
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 $3.19.
The Outemu Dustproof 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 Dustproof Brown switch does not have a specific descriptor mentioned, so it is likely to have a standard tactile switch sound. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai switch is known for being clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This difference in sound profile can affect the overall typing experience, with the Dustproof Brown likely offering a more traditional sound while the Xinhai providing a more pronounced and percussive typing sound.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch does not have a specific descriptor mentioned, so it is unclear how it feels to type on this switch. In comparison, the HMX Xinhai switch is described as bouncy and creamy. The bouncy sensation provides a spring-like feedback, adding a lively feel to each keystroke. Additionally, the creamy feel offers a smooth and buttery typing experience, making each keystroke feel silky and effortless. This difference in feel can greatly impact the typing experience, with the Xinhai switch offering a more dynamic and luxurious feel compared to the Dustproof Brown.
Overall, the Outemu Dustproof Brown and HMX Xinhai switches offer different subjective qualities when it comes to sound and feel. While the Dustproof Brown may provide a standard tactile switch sound and feel, the Xinhai switch stands out with its clacky sound and bouncy, creamy feel. Depending on personal preference and typing style, users may prefer the traditional typing experience of the Dustproof Brown or opt for the more dynamic and luxurious feel of the Xinhai switch. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a tactile typing experience without much noise, the Dustproof Brown could be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a clacky sound profile, and a bouncy and creamy typing feel, the Xinhai switch might be more suitable for your needs. Consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features and qualities that can enhance your typing experience, so choose the one that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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