Outemu Maple Leaf vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Outemu Maple Leaf and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Maple Leaf and HMX Xinhai stand out as popular options. The Maple Leaf is a tactile switch, known for its reliable performance and satisfying tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Xinhai is a linear switch that offers a unique combination of bouncy feel, clacky sound, and creamy operation. While the Maple Leaf is ideal for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience, the Xinhai appeals to users looking for a smoother and quieter operation. 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
55g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
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
The Outemu Maple Leaf and HMX Xinhai differ in their housing materials, with the Maple Leaf featuring a nylon top housing and bottom housing, while the Xinhai utilizes a polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing. The nylon top and bottom housing of the Maple Leaf create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, absorbing more sound and producing a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Xinhai results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffer plastic nature. This difference in housing materials contributes to distinct audio experiences when typing on the switches.
On the other hand, both the Maple Leaf and Xinhai share the use of nylon for the bottom housing, meaning that typing on switches of either type will elicit a similar deep and full sound profile. The nylon bottom housing in both switches absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that enhances the typing experience. While the top housing material may vary between the two switches, the consistent use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures a similarity in the sound produced during typing.
It is important to note that the qualities of the housing materials will impact the overall sound and feel of the switch differently. The bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound when a key is released. Therefore, the choice of housing materials in a switch can significantly affect the typing experience, with each material contributing unique characteristics to the sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is evident that the Xinhai is the lighter option while the Maple Leaf is the heavier option. The Maple Leaf has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy. In contrast, the Xinhai has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, which is considered light. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Xinhai switch, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Maple Leaf switch for its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style, as both switches offer distinct experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3mm, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.4mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those seeking faster response times, such as gamers. However, the slight difference in travel distance may be noticeable to some users, with the Maple Leaf offering a slightly shorter press than the Xinhai. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference, with those looking for a slightly quicker key press opting for the Maple Leaf, while those who prefer a bit more depth may choose the Xinhai. Either way, both switches offer a compact and responsive 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 Maple Leaf 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 Maple Leaf tactile switch is known for a quiet and subtle typing experience, making it a great option for those who prefer a more discreet sound profile. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch is described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. Depending on your personal preference, you can choose between a quieter typing experience with the Maple Leaf or a more pronounced and tactile sound with the Xinhai.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Maple Leaf offers a tactile feedback that provides a satisfying bump when the key is actuated, giving the user a tactile response that can enhance typing accuracy and speed. In contrast, the Xinhai switch is known for its bouncy and creamy feel. The bouncy sensation gives a spring-like feedback, adding a lively and responsive feel to your typing experience. Additionally, the creamy feel provides a smooth and buttery sensation, making each keystroke feel effortless and fluid. Depending on your preference for tactile feedback, you can choose between the precise bump of the Maple Leaf or the bouncy and creamy feel of the Xinhai switch.
In conclusion, if you prefer a quieter and more subtle typing experience with a tactile bump, the Outemu Maple Leaf switch would be a suitable choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clacky sound profile with a bouncy and creamy feel that provides an energetic typing experience, the HMX Xinhai linear switch would be the ideal option. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to your personal preference in sound and feel when selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for your typing needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, you should choose the Maple Leaf if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a switch with no specific standout features. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and are looking for a switch with a unique design and sound profile, the Xinhai would be the better choice. The Xinhai offers a softer acoustics profile and a distinctively crisp sound, making it a more sophisticated option for those seeking precise performance. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for bottom out force, sound, and overall typing experience.
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