Durock Piano vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Durock Piano and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Durock Piano and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) are two notable contenders in the realm of linear switches, each offering a unique typing experience. The Durock Piano stands out for its exceptional material blend that creates a gliding push feel, accompanied by a deep, creamy sound signature. Users often describe typing on these switches as pleasant and soothing, thanks to their bassy and silky qualities, making them a fantastic choice for those who prioritize a smooth and enjoyable keystroke. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) offers a more robust typing experience with its unique PA12 top housing, which contributes to a softer acoustic profile, while the POM stem delivers a crisp, higher-pitched resonance. This switch embodies a subtle sophistication, appealing to users who appreciate a bit more weight in their key presses and seek precise performance. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Mystery material
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Durock Piano and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches both utilize materials that inform their distinctive acoustic characteristics, yet they differ in their specific compositions. The Piano features a proprietary POM blend for both its top and bottom housings. While the exact formulation of this blend remains undisclosed, it is noted for delivering a uniquely satisfying and deep sound profile. In comparison, the Xinhai (Heavy) employs a classic nylon for its top and bottom housings. Nylon is renowned for its softer texture, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing sound waves better than harder plastics. Thus, while both switches aim to provide a rich auditory experience, they do so through different material choices—POM for the Piano and nylon for the Xinhai.
The impact of each material on the sound characteristics of keypresses is essential to understanding how these switches perform. For the Durock Piano, the POM blend's nature likely leads to a pronounced resonance that offers an engaging auditory feedback, particularly when releasing keys. With the Xinhai (Heavy), the nylon composition elicits a similarly deep sound profile that may create a rounder auditory experience, especially given its capacity to absorb sound wave vibrations. The difference lies primarily in the specific sensation and sound texture afforded by each material. As a result, users might experience distinct sound qualities when bottoming out each switch, but both should support a rich listening experience.
Despite these differences in material composition, the ultimate performance of both switch designs yields similar acoustic results when the sound characteristics are layered together. The Piano’s POM blend and the Xinhai's nylon both aim to achieve an engaging and satisfying acoustic response, either through the resonance of a firm but flexible surface inherent in POM or the softer, sound-absorbing qualities of nylon. When comparing their performances in practical application, keyboard enthusiasts can expect a degree of similarity in auditory feedback, albeit with unique sensations attributable to their material differences. In practical terms, pressing these switches will reveal distinct experiences, but both will reinforce a rich, fulfilling sound profile to enjoy during typist sessions.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Piano linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, there are distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Durock Piano features an unknown actuation force but has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, categorized as medium-heavy. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch has a specific actuation force of 55 grams and a slightly lower bottom out force of 62.5 grams, which is considered medium. Consequently, the Xinhai is lighter in terms of actuation force compared to the Piano, making it potentially more suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience over extended periods. However, while the bottom out forces are quite close, users who enjoy a heavier feel in their typing experience might prefer the Durock Piano despite its unknown actuation force. Overall, those seeking a more substantial tactile response might gravitate toward the Durock switch, while those who favor a lighter touch may opt for the HMX Xinhai (Heavy).
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Durock Piano linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, a clear difference emerges. The Durock Piano features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option of the two, while the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This distinction is significant for users who prioritize responsive feedback; gamers may prefer the shorter 3.4 mm distance for its quicker response time. Conversely, those who enjoy a more pronounced and hearty feel when typing may find the Durock Piano's longer 4 mm travel distance more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference regarding travel distance and tactile experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Piano has an MSRP of $6.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Piano for $5.57.
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.
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 comparing the sound qualities of the Durock Piano linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, the Piano clearly stands out with its deep, creamy sound signature that is characterized as bassy. This gives the switch a rich and resonant acoustic profile, providing a satisfying auditory feedback during key presses. The Xinhai (Heavy), on the other hand, lacks specific sound descriptors, but it features a PA12 top housing designed for a softer acoustics profile. While the Xinhai may have a higher-pitched resonance due to its POM stem, details on its sound production remain unspecified. If a softer sound is desired, similar results could be achieved by experimenting with different keycaps and keyboard materials.
In terms of feel, the Durock Piano offers a remarkably smooth typing experience, highlighted by descriptors such as frictionless and silky. This results in a nearly effortless travel, allowing for a comfortable and fluid typing experience without any resistance. The HMX Xinhai (Heavy) does not provide detailed feedback on its tactile qualities, leaving a gap in our understanding of its feel. However, given its distinct properties as a heavier switch, it may offer a different, potentially more pronounced typing experience compared to the silky smoothness of the Piano.
In conclusion, the Durock Piano linear switch shines in both sound and feel, providing a rich acoustic experience and an impressively smooth typing sensation. The HMX Xinhai (Heavy) presents an intriguing alternative, although its sound and feel are less defined. Depending on individual preferences, particularly in the realm of tactile response and auditory feedback, both switches can cater to different typing experiences, yet they promise a degree of satisfaction that can often be influenced through customization, such as switching keycaps or board designs.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Durock Piano linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you value a smooth, frictionless typing experience combined with a rich, deep sound profile, the Durock Piano is an excellent option. Its medium-heavy bottom-out force of 63.5 grams offers a satisfying resistance that enhances your overall typing experience while producing a pleasant bassy sound that many enthusiasts appreciate. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter touch, enjoy a cleaner acoustic profile, and are drawn to the crisp, sophisticated feel of the Xinhai (Heavy) with its unique PA12 top housing and POM stem, you might find this switch more suitable. The customized blend of materials in the Xinhai creates a distinct resonance that may elevate your typing precision. Consider your priorities—be it sound, feel, or force—when making your decision, and choose the switch that resonates with your typing style for a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
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