SP-Star RedBlue vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the SP-Star RedBlue and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, both the SP-Star RedBlue and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) offer unique experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The RedBlue switches are celebrated for their medium-light typing feel, providing a low-pitched sound profile that is both neutral and mildly thocky, making them an excellent choice for users seeking a smooth and subtle tactile feedback without overwhelming noise. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) brings a more robust typing experience, featuring a distinct PA12 top housing that softens acoustics and a POM stem that produces a crisp, higher-pitched resonance. This blend of sound and performance caters to those who appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback and a significant weight behind each keystroke. Ultimately, your choice may hinge on whether you prefer the understated elegance of the RedBlue or the assertive clarity 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
N/A
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
57g
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
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 (Heavy) switches feature distinctly different housing materials, which contribute to their unique sound profiles. The RedBlue utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, a material known for its stiffness and translucency. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making these switches ideally suited for users who appreciate clarity in their typing experience. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) employs nylon for both its top and bottom housings, which is a softer material. The softer nature of nylon absorbs sound more effectively, yielding a deeper and fuller sound profile that can feel rounder and more subdued. Users who prefer a more muted auditory feedback may find the Xinhai (Heavy) to be a better fit.
Despite their differences, both switch options can achieve certain similarities in performance when considering the impact of their housing materials. While the RedBlue's polycarbonate excels in providing a clear and resonant sound, the Xinhai (Heavy) offers a warmer tone due to nylon’s sound-absorbing qualities. However, the characteristic sound generated by each switch will be determined by the interaction of the top and bottom housings. In user experience, toggling between these two switches might lead to a perception of familiar results, as both switches provide tactile feedback that is meaningful to typists, albeit through different auditory channels.
The distinction in housing materials significantly influences the typing experience, highlighting how they frame the qualities of a switch. When typing or gaming, for the RedBlue, the polycarbonate will create a pronounced sound on releasing the key, while the nylon in the Xinhai (Heavy) will produce a more consistent auditory dampening effect on both pressing and releasing actions. Given the unique characteristics of each housing material, users may gravitate toward one or the other based on personal preference for sound clarity or fullness, respectively. Thus, ultimately, the choice between the two is less about performance capabilities and more about the subtleties of user experience and sound preference.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch with the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The RedBlue switch features a bottom out force of 57 grams but has an unspecified actuation force, rendering a direct comparison challenging. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) operates with a defined actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams. This makes the Xinhai visually heavier in both actuation and bottom out forces, providing a more substantial typing experience that some users may prefer. The RedBlue's construction allows for typing with a lighter feel due to its medium-light bottom out force, making it potentially more suitable for long typing sessions or gaming. Overall, while the RedBlue is lighter, the Xinhai offers a firmer push, catering to individuals looking for a more pronounced tactile feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, a notable difference emerges. The RedBlue switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the traditional standard for key switches. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that users of the Xinhai switch may experience quicker response times, making it potentially more suitable for gaming and fast-paced activities. However, while the shorter travel distance of the Xinhai may appeal to those looking for responsiveness, some users might find the more abrupt action less satisfying compared to the deeper feel offered by the RedBlue switch. Therefore, for a more hearty typing experience, the SP-Star RedBlue would be the preferable choice, while those looking for speed might lean towards the HMX Xinhai (Heavy).
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 (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.
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 delivers a notably low-pitched acoustic profile, characterized by a deep, thocky resonance that provides a satisfying response upon key activation. The mellow tone is complemented by its neutral quality, making it versatile for various environments, whether at home or in an office. The sound produced by the RedBlue embodies a richness that users often find appealing, creating an engaging auditory experience during typing. On the other hand, specific sound characteristics of the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) are not provided, leaving us without a direct comparison in this aspect. However, it is worth noting that sound is heavily influenced by the keyboard construction and keycap choice, which can impact the auditory outcome significantly for both switches.
In terms of feel, the RedBlue is described as offering a mild typing experience that is approachable to users across skill levels. This gentleness is paired with a polished quality that ensures smooth key travel, contributing to an overall refined typing sensation. The combination of well-engineered materials and potential factory lubrications enhances the overall experience, making it feel effortless during prolonged use. Unfortunately, details about the feel of the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) are absent, making it difficult to compare directly. Nonetheless, one can assume that a switch marketed as 'Heavy' may provide a different tactile experience, potentially leaning towards a firmer actuation.
In conclusion, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch stands out for its low-pitched sound and mild, polished feel, making it suitable for those who enjoy a softer typing experience without sacrificing auditory satisfaction. While the sound profile of the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) is unknown, its designation may suggest a sturdier build, possibly leading to a different tactile experience. Overall, each switch presents unique qualities that cater to the preferences of different users, and outcomes may still be similar if appropriate housing and keycap choices are made for both switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a medium-light typing experience with a lower-pitched, thocky sound profile that suits both casual and professional environments, the RedBlue is an excellent choice. Its smooth and polished feel makes it approachable for both beginners and seasoned typists, providing a gentle yet satisfying keystroke. On the other hand, if you enjoy a slightly firmer keystroke that delivers a crisp, higher-pitched acoustic signature, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) is where you should lean. The heavier bottom-out force offers a more substantial typing experience that could be beneficial for those who like to press down harder while typing or gaming. Additionally, the unique PA12 housing enhances acoustic performance, giving you a distinctively refined sound. Ultimately, your choice should reflect what feels best for your typing habits and what auditory feedback you enjoy most while you type.
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