Outemu Dustproof Brown vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can significantly influence your typing experience, and two popular options are the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch. The Outemu Dustproof Brown is recognized for its tactile feedback, making it a favored choice for typists who appreciate a noticeable bump that enhances their typing precision without a loud click. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch features a unique PA12 top housing and a POM stem, providing a smoother, quieter keystroke ideal for gamers or those in shared workspaces. While the Brown switch caters to users who thrive on tactile confirmation, the Xinhai (Heavy) appeals to those seeking a refined and silky typing experience. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
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
When comparing the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches, a significant distinction lies in their top housing materials. The Dustproof Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, known for imparting a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. This rigidity enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced when a key is released, making it particularly suitable for setups that utilize RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for vibrant light diffusion. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) employs a nylon top housing, which, as a softer plastic, absorbs sound more effectively and produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This results in a more muted release sound when the key is pressed, catering to those who prefer a subtler auditory feedback.
The bottom housings of both switches, however, demonstrate a striking similarity as both utilize nylon material. This commonality leads to a deeper and more rounded sound profile when a key is bottomed out, as nylon's sound-absorbing properties contribute to a fuller acoustic experience. Since the bottom housing significantly influences the feel and sound at the key's physical endpoint, users will find a commonality in the tactile sensation across both switches when typing. This shared use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures that both the Dustproof Brown and the Xinhai (Heavy) deliver appealing auditory feedback during interaction.
Ultimately, while the top housing materials create contrasting sound profiles—with the Dustproof Brown achieving a sharper sound and the Xinhai (Heavy) presenting a mellower tone—the nylon bottom housing serves to harmonize the bottom-out experience across both switches. Users who prioritize a distinct auditory experience may find the polycarbonate top of the Dustproof Brown preferable due to its resonance, while those seeking a more muted response might lean toward the Xinhai (Heavy) for its nylon top. Nevertheless, both switches will provide a satisfying tactile response thanks to their shared nylon bottom housing, ensuring compatibility in terms of the broader typing experience.
Weight
The Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch present different experiences when it comes to actuation and bottom out forces. The Dustproof Brown has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a medium-heavy feel—ideal for prolonged typing and gaming sessions. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams, but it has a lower bottom out force of 62.5 grams, which gives it a softer transition when reaching the bottom compared to the Dustproof Brown. As a result, the Dustproof Brown is the lighter option for actuation force, while the Xinhai is the heavier one. This difference in actuation forces means that those who favor a lighter switch for extended use might prefer the Outemu Dustproof Brown, while those seeking a more substantial push feel might lean toward the HMX Xinhai (Heavy). Ultimately, your choice will depend on your preference for weight and tactile feedback in your typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch features a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This difference highlights the distinct preferences between users: those who favor the tactile feedback and more traditional depth might lean towards the Outemu Dustproof Brown, which offers a more significant travel distance, whereas gamers or those seeking rapid response times may prefer the Xinhai (Heavy) due to its shorter travel distance, which can facilitate quicker key presses. Consequently, if you appreciate a more responsive feel, the HMX Xinhai would be the better choice; however, if you prefer a deeper, more substantial press, the Outemu Dustproof Brown is ideal. Overall, the Outemu switch provides a longer travel distance, making it the switch with more depth, while the HMX Xinhai is shorter, catering to those who appreciate a quick 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 $2.99.
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's acoustic qualities remain unspecified, leaving room for interpretation based on the board and keycaps used. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch features a unique PA12 top housing that contributes to a softer acoustic profile, while its POM stem delivers a distinctly crisp, higher-pitched resonance. This combination results in a sound that is refined and sophisticated, making it ideal for users who appreciate a more delicate auditory experience without excessive noise.
In terms of feel, the characteristics of the Outemu Dustproof Brown are not explicitly mentioned, which means its tactile feedback and overall sensation while typing or gaming are open to personal interpretation. On the other hand, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch is designed with a heavier actuation force, providing a more substantial feel that some users may prefer for a firmer typing experience. This distinction allows for a clear engagement that can enhance the tactile sensation, making it suitable for those who enjoy a bit more resistance when pressing down on keys.
In conclusion, while the Dustproof Brown lacks specific information regarding both sound and feel, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch offers a nuanced auditory experience and a heavier tactile feedback. For users looking for a more engaging and aesthetically pleasing sound profile, the Xinhai may be the preferable choice. However, if you are inclined towards the Dustproof Brown, you might find that personal elements such as your keyboard construction and keycap selection will play a significant role in determining your overall experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch ultimately hinges on your preferences for typing experience and sound. If you appreciate tactile feedback and prefer a switch that provides a medium-heavy actuation force of 65 grams, the Dustproof Brown is an excellent choice, especially if you're looking for a switch that balances typing precision with a subtle tactile response. This can be particularly appealing if you type extensively or engage in gaming where precision matters. On the other hand, if you are looking for a smoother keystroke experience with less tactile bump, the Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, with its slightly lighter bottom-out force of 62.5 grams and unique acoustics, is designed for those who value a quieter operation along with a refined feel. The POM stem provides a softer sound and a crisp resonance, making it suitable for both gaming and typing in quieter environments. Ultimately, your choice should reflect the type of feeling and sound you desire in your mechanical keyboard – whether it be the tactile engagement of the Brown switch or the fluidity and sophisticated acoustics of the Xinhai.
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