Outemu Silver vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silver and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Silver and the HMX Xinhai, both linear switches offer unique features to consider. The Silver switch is best known for its smooth linear feel, providing a consistent typing experience without any tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch stands out for its innovative design, featuring a PA12 top housing for a softer acoustics profile and a POM stem for a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance. Categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', and 'Creamy', the Xinhai switch offers a blend of subtle sophistication and precise performance. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.60 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
The Outemu Silver and the HMX Xinhai switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows for the light to shine through the housing. As a result, both switches provide a similar sound profile and aesthetic appeal in terms of their top housings.
In contrast, the Silver utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Xinhai also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, which can provide a different typing experience compared to switches with polycarbonate bottom housings. Despite both switches using nylon for their bottom housings, the specific design and construction of each switch may still lead to slight variations in sound and feel.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches can significantly impact the typing experience and sound profile of the keyboard. While both the Outemu Silver and HMX Xinhai switches use polycarbonate for their top housings, the difference in their bottom housing materials may lead to subtle differences in sound and feel. Whether you prefer the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper and fuller sound of nylon, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
In comparing the Outemu Silver linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is evident that the Xinhai is the lighter option in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Silver requires an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is medium-heavy, while the Xinhai has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, which is lighter. The Silver switch provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier force, ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Xinhai offers a lighter touch, perfect for extended typing sessions as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out force weights.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Silver linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, we see that the Silver has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Xinhai has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Xinhai has the shorter travel distance, making it more preferred for those seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the Silver offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial key press. Both switches fall within the range of common travel distances, with the Silver being on the longer side and the Xinhai being on the shorter side. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for key press depth and responsiveness.
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 Silver 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 Silver linear switch is known for its quiet operation, allowing for a more discreet typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch is characterized by a clacky sound profile, offering a sharp and snappy noise when keys are pressed. This difference in sound can affect the overall typing environment, with the Silver switch being better suited for those who prefer a quieter workspace, while the Xinhai switch may appeal to individuals who enjoy a more noticeable auditory feedback while typing.
Moving on to the feel, the Outemu Silver switch provides a smooth and consistent keystroke without any additional tactile feedback. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai switch offers a bouncy sensation, giving a spring-like feedback that enhances the typing experience. Additionally, the Xinhai switch also presents a creamy feel, providing a smooth and buttery typing sensation that can make typing a more luxurious and effortless activity. This difference in feel can impact typing speed, accuracy, and overall comfort, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
In conclusion, the Outemu Silver and HMX Xinhai linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Silver switch provides a quiet and consistent typing experience, ideal for those who prioritize a noise-free environment, while the Xinhai switch delivers a clacky sound and bouncy, creamy feel that can enhance the overall tactile feedback and enjoyment of typing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, as both switches are designed to provide unique and satisfying options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Silver linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a slightly heavier actuation force and don't mind a more neutral sound profile, then the Outemu Silver switch may be the better choice for you. However, if you are looking for a lighter actuation force and enjoy a switch with a unique acoustics profile that provides a bouncy and creamy typing experience, then the HMX Xinhai switch would be a great fit. Consider your typing preferences and needs to make an informed decision on which switch would enhance your overall typing experience.
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