Outemu Silent Green vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Green and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering the Outemu Silent Green and the HMX Xinhai mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes apparent that each switch offers unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Silent Green, a linear switch, is recognized for its quiet operation, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a more discreet typing experience. On the other hand, the Xinhai, also a linear switch, stands out with its PA12 top housing for softer acoustics and a POM stem for a crisp, higher-pitched sound, appealing to users looking for a switch that combines elegance with precise performance. While the Silent Green may be favored for its silence, the Xinhai's bouncy, clacky, and creamy attributes provide a different typing sensation. 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
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
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
pom
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
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 Silent Green and the HMX Xinhai utilize polycarbonate in their top housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiff plastic that leads to clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for RGB lighting. In contrast, the Xinhai features a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound when typing. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than polycarbonate, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile compared to the sharpness of polycarbonate.
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Silent Green and the HMX Xinhai, it is evident that the choice of polycarbonate for the top housing impacts the sound profile of both switches. However, the difference in the bottom housing material can lead to distinct typing experiences. The Silent Green's polycarbonate bottom housing complements the sharp sound of the top housing, while the Xinhai's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound. This showcases how a combination of housing materials can influence the overall typing experience of a switch.
In terms of functionality, the use of polycarbonate for both the top housing in both switches results in similar sound characteristics. The stiffness of polycarbonate creates a clear and crisp sound profile that is ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the choice of nylon for the Xinhai's bottom housing sets it apart by providing a different typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound. Ultimately, the combination of housing materials in a switch can significantly impact the sound and feel, making each switch unique in its typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Silent Green linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is evident that there are notable differences between the two. The Silent Green switch has a higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Xinhai's lighter 37 grams. Similarly, the Silent Green switch also has a higher bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Xinhai has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the Silent Green switch provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel, while the Xinhai switch offers a lighter touch for smoother typing. For those who prefer a more robust typing experience, the Outemu Silent Green switch would be the ideal choice, while the HMX Xinhai switch would be preferred by those looking for a lighter feel for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the weight of the keys plays a significant role in determining the overall typing experience and comfort level for the user.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silent Green linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Silent Green offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Xinhai, providing a more traditional feel when typing. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Xinhai for quicker response times, while some may find the abrupt feel of a shorter distance to be less comfortable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and 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 $2.99.
The Outemu Silent Green 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 Silent Green switch is known for being quiet, making it a great choice for those looking for a more discreet typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai switch is described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This difference in sound profile can greatly impact the overall typing experience, with the Silent Green offering a more muted sound compared to the Xinhai's bright and percussive tone.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Silent Green switch is known for its specific tactile feedback and smooth keystrokes, providing a comfortable typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai switch offers a bouncy sensation with a spring-like feedback, giving users a lively and responsive feel when typing. Additionally, the Xinhai switch is also described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience that feels effortless and comfortable.
Overall, the Outemu Silent Green switch and the HMX Xinhai switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Silent Green provides a quiet and comfortable typing experience, the Xinhai switch offers a more lively and clacky sound along with a creamy and bouncy feel. Depending on your preferences for sound and typing sensation, both switches offer unique characteristics that can cater to different user preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on what type of typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
Therefore, when choosing between the Outemu Silent Green linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, the Silent Green may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams and are looking for a switch with a unique acoustics profile and a crisp, higher-pitched sound, the Xinhai switch could be the ideal choice. Additionally, if you enjoy a bouncy and creamy feel when typing, the Xinhai switch offers a lively and smooth typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and bottom out force.
Mentioned in this article
