Outemu Ocean vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Outemu Ocean and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options on the market are the Outemu Ocean and the HMX Xinhai. The Ocean is best known for its tactile feedback, providing a satisfying bump when the key is actuated. On the other hand, we are excited to showcase the Xinhai switch, which is a linear switch categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', and 'Creamy'. The Xinhai switch boasts a unique PA12 top housing for a softer acoustics profile and a POM stem for a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance. Both switches offer their own set of advantages and it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Ocean and HMX Xinhai both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is particularly useful for RGB lighting effects. However, the nylon bottom housing of the Ocean generates a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Xinhai also utilizes a nylon bottom housing for similar sound qualities.
In terms of sound profile, the top housing material has a more noticeable impact when you release a key, while the bottom housing material affects the sound and feel of bottoming out a key. This means that for the Outemu Ocean, the polycarbonate top housing will play a significant role in key release sound, while the nylon bottom housing will contribute to the deep and full sound when pressing a key. Similarly, the HMX Xinhai's polycarbonate top housing will provide a sharp and crisp sound upon key release, while the nylon bottom housing will enhance the overall sound profile when pressing down on a key.
Overall, both the Outemu Ocean and HMX Xinhai utilize a combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials to create a unique sound profile for their switches. While both switches benefit from the sharp and clear sound of polycarbonate in their top housings, they also incorporate the deeper and fuller sound characteristics of nylon in their bottom housings. The split in housing materials allows for a balanced and dynamic typing experience, with each material contributing its own distinct qualities to the overall sound profile of the switch.
Weight
The Outemu Ocean tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the HMX Xinhai linear switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the Xinhai is 45 grams, while the Ocean's bottom out force is unknown. The difference in actuation force means that the Xinhai will provide a lighter typing experience, making it more suitable for extended periods of typing or gaming. In contrast, the Ocean switch may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial push feel. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of both switches play a significant role in the typing experience they provide, allowing users to choose based on their preferences for weight and typing feel.
Travel distance
The Outemu Ocean tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Ocean has a longer travel distance, making it more suitable for those who prefer a deeper, more pronounced key press. The Xinhai, on the other hand, has a shorter travel distance, making it ideal for gamers or individuals who prioritize quicker response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference - those who prefer a more responsive feel may opt for the Xinhai, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Ocean. Both switches offer different experiences based on their respective travel distances, but they are both effective in their own right.
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 Ocean 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 Ocean switch does not have a specific descriptor provided, making it difficult to directly compare to the HMX Xinhai switch, which is described as "clacky." A clacky switch typically produces a sharp and percussive sound when pressed, providing a crisp and bright auditory experience for the user. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Ocean switch also lacks a specific descriptor, while the HMX Xinhai switch is described as both "bouncy" and "creamy." A bouncy switch offers a spring-like feedback sensation, providing a lively feel with a noticeable rebound upon key press. On the other hand, a creamy switch offers a smooth and buttery typing experience, often due to lubrication applied in the factory or specific materials used, allowing for effortless keystrokes and a silky sensation while typing.
Overall, while the subjective qualities of the Outemu Ocean and HMX Xinhai switches differ in terms of sound and feel, it's important to consider personal preferences and typing habits when choosing between the two. Both switches offer unique characteristics that may appeal to different users, with the Ocean switch providing an unknown sound and feel profile, and the Xinhai switch offering a clacky sound profile and a combination of bouncy and creamy sensations. Ultimately, experimenting with both switches on a variety of keyboards and keycaps will help determine which one best suits an individual's typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Ocean tactile switch or the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a switch with no bottom out force and are looking for a unique typing experience, the Ocean may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a clacky sound with bouncy and creamy feel, the Xinhai switch could be the perfect fit. Both switches have their own strengths and it is important to choose the one that aligns best with your typing preferences. Ultimately, the decision is yours to make based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for your typing experience.
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