Outemu Spring Breeze vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Outemu Spring Breeze and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choices can greatly influence your typing experience, especially with options like the Outemu Spring Breeze and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy). The Outemu Spring Breeze is celebrated for its clicky feedback, which not only provides an audible confirmation with each keystroke but also adds an element of enjoyment for typists seeking a tactile feel. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) is a linear switch designed for those who prefer a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke. Crafted from unique materials, such as a PA12 top housing for softer acoustics and a POM stem for a crisp sound, the Xinhai (Heavy) offers a refined typing experience that emphasizes subtlety and precision. Choosing the Spring Breeze might be ideal for those who relish the auditory satisfaction of a clicky switch, while the Xinhai (Heavy) can appeal to users who want a more seamless and quieter typing session. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
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 both the Outemu Spring Breeze and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches primarily utilize nylon for both the top and bottom housings, which suggests they share a fundamental acoustic characteristic. Nylon is recognized as a classic material in switch construction due to its softer properties, which significantly contribute to the sound profile during typing. Users can expect a deeper and fuller sound when typing on these switches, thanks to nylon's ability to absorb sound effectively compared to harder plastics. This shared material choice enhances the overall typing experience by delivering a rounder and more muted auditory feedback, making both switches appealing for those who prioritize a softer sound and tactile response.
In examining the nuances of the top and bottom housing materials, we find that while both the Spring Breeze and the Xinhai (Heavy) utilize nylon exclusively, the construction could impart different tactile sensations based on design variables. For instance, the interaction between switches and the keyboard during typing can be affected by the specific shape and craftsmanship utilized in their designs. Although both have nylon compositions, subtle differences in molding and overall switch design will result in variations in how each feels when striking or releasing a key. Thus, while they maintain the same material properties, users might notice slight differences in their typing experience depending on the ergonomic and aesthetic elements brought forth by each switch.
Ultimately, the similarities in the housing materials of the Spring Breeze and Xinhai (Heavy) lead to comparable sound profiles, but the overall user experience may differ due to their structural designs. Despite the identical nylon construction, the unique attributes of each switch influence the typing feel and sound dynamics. This aspect highlights the balance between shared material properties and individualized manufacturing techniques that can create distinct outcomes in a product category. Users seeking a specific auditory experience or tactile feedback should consider these design elements when selecting between the two switches, even if sound dampening and depth are guaranteed by the use of nylon in both cases.
Weight
The Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch present contrasting experiences when it comes to actuation and bottom out force. The Spring Breeze features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it well-suited for users seeking a more effortless typing experience, ideal for long work sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial tactile feedback and a stronger push feel. As a result, users who favor a lighter switch will likely find the Spring Breeze more comfortable over extended use, while enthusiasts desiring a firmer typing experience would lean towards the robust characteristics of the Xinhai. Ultimately, these differences in weights cater to distinct preferences among keyboard users, enhancing their typing or gaming experiences based on individual needs.
Travel distance
The Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch exhibit a notable difference in travel distance, with the Spring Breeze measuring 4.0 mm and the Xinhai at 3.4 mm. This makes the Xinhai a shorter option, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times, as its shorter travel can facilitate faster key actuations. Conversely, the Spring Breeze offers a longer travel distance that may cater to users who appreciate a more pronounced key press, delivering a sense of depth and feedback that some find preferable. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference; those who favor quicker actuation might lean towards the Xinhai, while those who enjoy a more deliberate typing experience might opt for the Outemu Spring Breeze.
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 $3.19.
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 has not been specifically characterized, making its auditory profile somewhat ambiguous. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch is known for its unique PA12 top housing, which contributes to a softer acoustics profile, combined with a POM stem that produces a crisp and higher-pitched resonance. This blend of materials allows the Xinhai to provide a refined auditory experience that balances clarity and subtlety. However, both switches might produce varying sound characteristics depending on the keyboard frame and keycap materials used, leading to potentially unique sound signatures in different setups.
In terms of feel, the Spring Breeze switch lacks specific detailing, leaving its tactile feedback and actuation experience unspecified. The Xinhai (Heavy), on the other hand, is characterized by a heavier tactile response, typical of linear switches, promoting a solid and consistent keypress. The heavier variant is designed to provide a more pronounced feedback during actuation, enhancing the overall typing experience for users who prefer a firmer touch. Such distinctions in feel are crucial for users looking for personalized performance, and they can influence the overall typing satisfaction.
In summary, while the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch remains an enigma in both sound and feel, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch showcases clear advantages in terms of auditory clarity with its crisp sound and a firm, heavy tactile feedback. If you prefer a more defined typing experience with sophisticated acoustic characteristics, the Xinhai is likely the better choice, while the Spring Breeze may be suitable for those who are open to exploring switches with unspecified qualities. Ultimately, personal preferences and keyboard configurations will play significant roles in how each switch performs in practice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, your choice between the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch ultimately depends on your typing style and personal preferences. If you prefer a lighter touch with a more tactile feedback that encourages a quick typing pace, then the Spring Breeze switch, with its medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, could be your ideal match. It lends itself well to casual typing and gaming where responsiveness is key but without the heavy strain on your fingers. On the other hand, if you find satisfaction in a more robust typing experience and appreciate the refined acoustics of a higher-pitched sound profile, then the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch, with a heavier bottom out force of 62.5 grams, would likely resonate better with you. This switch’s unique construction and crisp resonance make it suitable for those who prioritize precision and that satisfying tactile sensation, particularly in more serious typing or gaming scenarios. Ultimately, consider what you value more: a lighter, faster keystroke or a sturdier, more pronounced experience, and that will guide you to the switch that best fits your keyboard needs.
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