Outemu Spring Breeze vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Outemu Spring Breeze and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Spring Breeze and the HMX Xinhai offer distinct experiences for users. The Spring Breeze is best known for its clicky feedback, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy auditory and tactile feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Xinhai is a linear switch that boasts a unique PA12 top housing for a softer acoustics profile and a POM stem for a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance. The Xinhai is categorized as bouncy, clacky, and creamy, offering a smooth typing experience with a refined touch. Both switches have their own merits, whether you prefer the satisfying click of the Spring Breeze or the smooth precision of the Xinhai. 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
40g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.50 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
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 housing materials of the Outemu Spring Breeze and the HMX Xinhai differ significantly in terms of sound profiles. The Spring Breeze's nylon housing creates a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Xinhai's polycarbonate housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound because of its stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound profile. The translucent nature of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, offering an aesthetic advantage over the opaque nylon housing of the Spring Breeze.
Both switches feature nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile through their ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. This similarity in bottom housing material means that the typing experience on both switches may have certain common characteristics in terms of sound and feel. However, the clear aesthetic advantage provided by the Xinhai's polycarbonate top housing, especially when paired with RGB lighting, sets it apart from the Spring Breeze with its nylon top housing. The contrasting sound profiles produced by the different top housing materials further differentiate the typing experience on these two switches.
The impact of the housing materials on the overall sound profile of a switch is divided between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housings can result in a varied typing experience depending on the specific combination of materials used in a switch. While both the Spring Breeze and the Xinhai utilize nylon for their bottom housings, their distinct choices of top housing materials - nylon for the Spring Breeze and polycarbonate for the Xinhai - result in contrasting sound profiles that cater to different preferences in typing sound and feel.
Weight
The Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch both offer different levels of actuation and bottom out forces. The Spring Breeze switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Xinhai's 37 grams, making it better suited for those who prefer a bit more resistance when typing. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Xinhai switch requires 45 grams compared to the Spring Breeze's 55 grams, making the Xinhai switch lighter and more suitable for those looking for a smoother typing experience. Overall, choosing between the two switches depends on personal preference regarding typing feel and force requirements, but both switches provide unique options for different typing styles.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, the Spring Breeze has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Xinhai has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Spring Breeze offers a deeper key press experience, which some may find more satisfying for typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Xinhai's shorter travel distance may appeal to those looking for quicker response times and a more sensitive feel. Both switches have their own advantages, with the Spring Breeze providing a more traditional feel and the Xinhai offering a more modern and responsive experience. 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 Spring Breeze 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 Spring Breeze clicky switch is known for being a quieter option compared to other clicky switches on the market. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch is described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This difference in sound profile can impact the overall typing experience, with the Spring Breeze offering a more subdued auditory feedback while the Xinhai provides a more pronounced and percussive sound.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Spring Breeze switch lacks specific descriptors, so it may provide a standard tactile experience without any standout features. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch is described as bouncy, offering a spring-like feedback sensation that enhances the typing experience. Additionally, the Xinhai is also touted as creamy, providing a smooth and buttery feel when typing. These unique tactile qualities can greatly influence how keys feel under your fingers and contribute to overall typing comfort and satisfaction.
In conclusion, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the Spring Breeze may provide a quieter typing experience without specific tactile features, the Xinhai switch stands out for its clacky sound profile and bouncy, creamy feel. Choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. It's important to consider all available information, including additional factors like keyboard and keycap choices, to determine which switch aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, you'll want to choose the Spring Breeze if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and are looking for a clicky switch without any specific standout features. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and are interested in a switch with unique features like a PA12 top housing for softer acoustics and a POM stem for a crisp, higher-pitched resonance, then the Xinhai linear switch would be the better choice for you. Additionally, if you enjoy a clacky sound and a bouncy or creamy feel, the Xinhai switch offers these specific characteristics to enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on your personal preferences in terms of force, sound, and feel.
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