Outemu Silent Yellow Jade vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between tactile and linear can significantly influence your typing experience. The Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switches exemplary showcase a blend of tactile feedback and quiet operation, making them an ideal choice for those who appreciate a "thocky" sound without disturbing the peace of a shared workspace. This third iteration in Outemu's silent tactile lineup boasts a translucent jade yellow housing and is factory-lubed, resulting in a smooth yet punchy tactile bump. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), with its emphasis on linear feel, provides a different typing experience characterized by its heavier actuation, unique PA12 top housing, and POM stem. This combination results in softer acoustics and a crisp higher-pitched resonance, appealing to users who prefer a seamless keystroke without tactile bumps. Both switches cater to distinct preferences: the Silent Yellow Jade for those who seek a quiet yet tactile experience, and the Xinhai (Heavy) for lovers of smooth, uninterrupted keystrokes. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
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 housing materials of the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), it is important to highlight that both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This shared material choice indicates a deliberate focus on achieving a consistent auditory experience across both models. Nylon, known for its softer qualities, tends to absorb sound better than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This inherent property leads to similar acoustic characteristics in both switches, providing users with a rounder and duller sound profile that may appeal particularly to those who prioritize sound dampening in their typing experience.
Both the Silent Yellow Jade and Xinhai (Heavy) employ nylon in both their top and bottom housings, reinforcing the advantages of this material throughout the entire switch construction. Since both switches share the same material composition, any nuances that arise in sound and feel will inherently stem from other design factors rather than the materials themselves. This means that users can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of sound dampening, with both switches yielding a satisfying tactile feel that is consistent across typing sessions. Consequently, anyone looking to achieve a particular sound profile and feel can reasonably choose between the two, knowing they will receive similar results.
Moreover, the functional impact of the nylon housing in both models is reinforced by how each housing affects the overall typing experience. The bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound, while the top housing contributes more to the sound when releasing a key. Since both the Silent Yellow Jade and the Xinhai (Heavy) utilize the same nylon composition, the split qualities of sound and feel are consistent in both switches. This conformity allows users to anticipate how each switch will behave under their fingers, and whether they lean towards the plush acoustics of the Outemu or the robust feel of the Xinhai, they can trust that the nylon material will deliver a similar auditory and tactile experience.
Weight
The Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch offer distinct typing experiences due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces. The Silent Yellow Jade switch has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai switch requires a slightly stronger actuation force of 55 grams but features a lower bottom out force of 62.5 grams, placing it in the medium range. This comparative analysis reveals that the Silent Yellow Jade is the lighter option when it comes to actuation force, making it potentially more suitable for users who prefer longer typing sessions without fatigue. Meanwhile, the HMX Xinhai, although heavier in actuation force, provides a more subdued bottom out experience. Consequently, users seeking a more substantial typing feel may favor the HMX Xinhai switch, while those prioritizing comfort over extended use may lean towards the Silent Yellow Jade. Overall, the differences in force characteristics highlight the importance of personal preference in selecting the right switch for both typing and gaming experiences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, we find that they differ slightly. The Silent Yellow Jade has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Xinhai (Heavy) measures at 3.4 mm. This makes the Silent Yellow Jade the shorter option, providing a more responsive experience, which is often preferred by gamers seeking quicker actuation times. On the other hand, the Xinhai (Heavy), with its 3.4 mm travel distance, offers a slightly greater depth that some users might appreciate for a more robust feel. Therefore, if you value a snappier response, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade would be more suitable, while the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) might appeal to those who enjoy a deeper key press.
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 Silent Yellow Jade 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 Yellow Jade switches deliver a quiet yet satisfying auditory experience, characterized by a "thocky" sound that many users find pleasing. This is a notable advantage for those who prefer a more subdued typing environment while still enjoying the tactile feedback. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches produce a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance, facilitated by their POM stem and well-crafted housing. This switch is designed for a softer acoustical profile, which contributes to a sophisticated sound that may appeal to users who appreciate a more refined audio experience while typing. It's worth noting that the sound of each switch can vary significantly depending on the keyboard's build quality and the type of keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Silent Yellow Jade is known for its punchy tactile bump that provides a physical cue for actuation without being overly jarring to the fingers. This tactile responsiveness strikes a balance, making it suitable for both typing and gaming scenarios. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) offers a smooth linear action with a heavier feel, enhancing the perception of control and precision during usage. While both switches exhibit unique tactile characteristics, the Silent Yellow Jade leans towards a tactile experience with noticeable feedback, whereas the Xinhai (Heavy) focuses on a seamless, uninterrupted keypress journey.
Overall, both the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches cater to different preferences in the keyboard experience. The Silent Yellow Jade stands out with its combination of tactile feedback and quiet operation, ideal for users who enjoy a pronounced tactile sensation without excessive noise. Meanwhile, the Xinhai (Heavy) appeals to those who favor a smoother, linear experience with a crisp sound profile. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize tactile feedback and quietness or a fluid, linear keypress with a refined auditory experience. Each switch offers a distinctly different typing experience, ensuring that there is something for everyone in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you value a quieter typing experience with tactile feedback, the Silent Yellow Jade is a stellar option. Its medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, combined with a satisfying “thocky” sound, will enhance your typing experience, particularly in shared spaces or during late-night sessions when you want to minimize noise. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother typing action characterized by a linear feel, the Xinhai (Heavy) with its 62.5 grams bottom out force is an excellent choice. The combination of its lighter force and crisp acoustics provides a refined typing experience that excels in performance-driven tasks, such as gaming or programming, where speed and fluidity are paramount. In the end, think about whether you lean more towards tactile feedback and quieter operation or a fluid, linear experience with sophisticated sound, as this will guide you to the switch that best suits your style.
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