Outemu Gold vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Outemu Gold and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options to choose from, each offering unique characteristics to suit different preferences. The Outemu Gold switch is best known for its clicky feedback, providing a satisfying tactile and audible response with each keystroke. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai switch stands out for its linear design, offering a smooth and consistent typing experience without the clicky sound. While the Gold switch is ideal for those who enjoy the tactile feedback and audible clicks, the Xinhai switch appeals to users looking for a quieter and smoother typing experience. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Both the Outemu Gold and the HMX Xinhai utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, adding to the aesthetic appeal of the keyboard. With both switches featuring this material in the top housing, users can expect a similar auditory experience when typing.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Gold and Xinhai opt for nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound that can provide a more satisfying typing experience for users. By using nylon in the bottom housing, both switches ensure that this aspect of the sound profile is consistently present, contributing to a more well-rounded auditory experience.
The division of housing materials between the top and bottom in switches like the Outemu Gold and HMX Xinhai allows for a balance in sound characteristics. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, as it absorbs more sound and creates a deeper tone. On the other hand, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key, contributing to the overall crispness and clarity of the sound profile. By combining polycarbonate in the top housing and nylon in the bottom housing, both switches aim to provide users with a dynamic and engaging typing experience.
Weight
The Outemu Gold clicky switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch have distinct differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Outemu Gold has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a medium resistance level. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option. This means that the Outemu Gold will require a bit more force to trigger a keystroke compared to the HMX Xinhai, which may result in a more substantial typing experience for some users. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the HMX Xinhai more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. Both switches offer different levels of resistance, catering to individual preferences for typing feel and overall comfort.
Travel distance
The Outemu Gold clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Outemu Gold clicky switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the HMX Xinhai linear switch. The shorter travel distance of the Xinhai switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Gold switch may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer more depth in their typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Gold 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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Gold clicky switch is known for providing a unique auditory experience that is not specifically outlined in the information provided. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch is described as having a clacky sound profile. This means that the Xinhai switch produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, characterized by a crisp, bright, and percussive tone. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Gold switch's tactile feedback and typing sensation are not detailed in the given information. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai linear switch offers a bouncy and creamy typing experience. The bouncy sensation provides a spring-like or elastic feedback, giving the keys a lively feel with a rebound effect upon pressing. Additionally, the creamy characteristic of the Xinhai switch signifies a smooth and buttery typing experience, possibly attributed to lubricants in the switch or specific materials used. Typing on a creamy switch can feel like effortlessly gliding fingers across the keys with a silky sensation, making each keystroke comfortable and seamless.
In conclusion, the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Gold's specific sound and feel characteristics are not explicitly mentioned, the Xinhai switch is highlighted for its clacky sound profile and bouncy, creamy typing experience. If you are looking for a switch with a sharp and percussive sound, the Xinhai may be the better option. On the other hand, if you prefer a typing experience that is bouncy and smooth like butter, the Xinhai switch could be the ideal choice for you. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that you will get satisfying results regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a medium bottom out force of 60 grams and enjoy a sharp, clicky sound profile, then the Outemu Gold clicky switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams and value a bouncy, creamy feel with a unique acoustics profile, the HMX Xinhai linear switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preferences in terms of force, sound, and feel, so choose the one that best aligns with your typing style and preferences.
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