SP-Star RedBlue vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the SP-Star RedBlue and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The SP-Star RedBlue and HMX Xinhai mechanical keyboard switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The RedBlue is a linear switch known for its medium-light typing experience and relatively low-pitched sound profile, making it ideal for those who enjoy a smooth and polished typing feel. On the other hand, the Xinhai linear switch stands out for its unique PA12 top housing and POM stem combination, which delivers a softer acoustics profile with a distinctively crisp and higher-pitched resonance. While the RedBlue is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', and 'Thocky', the Xinhai is classified as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', and 'Creamy'. Each switch offers a different typing experience, catering to different preferences. 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
N/A
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Polycarbonate
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 SP-Star RedBlue and the HMX Xinhai both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through the housing. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer composition, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder tone.
While both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing material, they differ in their bottom housing materials. The SP-Star RedBlue features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which complements the top housing by contributing to the overall sound profile when the key is pressed and bottomed out. Conversely, the HMX Xinhai's nylon bottom housing impacts the typing experience by absorbing more sound and creating a different sound profile compared to the RedBlue. This illustrates how the choice of material for the housing of a switch can significantly affect the typing sound and feel.
Overall, the selection of housing materials for switches plays a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of typing on mechanical keyboards. While both the SP-Star RedBlue and the HMX Xinhai utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, they take divergent paths with the bottom housing material. The RedBlue's combination of polycarbonate top and bottom housing creates a consistent and resonant typing experience, while the Xinhai's blend of polycarbonate and nylon results in a unique sound profile that is both deeper and fuller. Ultimately, the housing materials chosen for a switch can have a significant impact on the overall typing experience for users seeking specific sound and feel preferences.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The RedBlue switch has a bottom out force of 57 grams, providing a medium-light feel, while the Xinhai switch has a lower bottom out force of 45 grams, making it feel lighter. The actuation force of the RedBlue switch is not specified, while the Xinhai switch requires 37 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Xinhai switch would be the better option, while those who prefer a slightly heavier feel may lean towards the RedBlue switch. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of typing comfort and desired force feedback.
Travel distance
The SP-Star RedBlue linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The RedBlue switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Xinhai switch, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a bit more depth in their key press. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which can be advantageous for gamers looking for quicker response times. Both switches offer a balance between traditional and shallow travel distances, catering to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and the specific use case for the keyboard.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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 $3.19.
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 SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is best known for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a mellow and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch offers a unique clacky sound, characterized by sharp and percussive tones. The RedBlue switch leans towards a thocky sound, while the Xinhai switch provides a brighter and crisper sound. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the RedBlue focusing on a more bass-heavy tone and the Xinhai delivering a sharper and snappier sound.
Moving on to feel, the SP-Star RedBlue switch is described as having a mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle yet refined feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, the HMX Xinhai switch provides a bouncy and creamy sensation, giving users a spring-like feedback and a smooth, buttery typing experience. While the RedBlue switch falls into the mild and polished category, the Xinhai switch stands out with its bouncy and creamy attributes. Both switches offer unique tactile feedback that caters to different typing preferences, with the RedBlue focusing on a middle-ground approachable feel and the Xinhai introducing a lively and silky typing sensation.
In conclusion, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch offer contrasting subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The RedBlue switch provides a low-pitched and neutral sound with a mild and polished typing experience, while the Xinhai switch delivers a clacky sound with a bouncy and creamy feel. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on individual preferences for sound and typing feel, with the RedBlue offering a mellow and refined experience and the Xinhai providing a sharper and bouncier typing sensation. Both switches are unique in their own right, ensuring that users will have a distinct and enjoyable typing experience with either option.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-light typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switches are the way to go. These switches are best suited for those who prefer a more neutral typing feel with a thocky sound when typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter typing experience with a crisp, higher-pitched sound, the HMX Xinhai linear switches are the ideal choice. The Xinhai switches offer a bouncy and creamy typing feel, perfect for those looking for a smoother and more buttery typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the SP-Star RedBlue and HMX Xinhai switches will come down to your personal preference in typing feel and sound profile.
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