Everglide Rice Pudding vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Everglide Rice Pudding and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preference and specific use cases, with options like the Everglide Rice Pudding and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) offering distinct experiences for typists and gamers alike. The Rice Pudding switch, renowned for its smooth operation and satisfying deep sound, delivers a balanced typing experience that caters to both performance enthusiasts and casual users. Its compatibility with Wooting's innovative keyboards further enhances its appeal, positioning it as a versatile choice for those seeking dynamic functionality. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch, with its heavier tactile feedback, is crafted from a unique PA12 top housing that provides a softer acoustic profile coupled with a POM stem for a crisp resonance. This design emphasizes subtle sophistication and precise performance, making it an attractive option for users who favor linear switches with a bit more heft. Ultimately, both switches have their unique strengths, attracting 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
38g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Custom stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Rice Pudding and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), the most notable distinction lies in their top housings. The Rice Pudding features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, crisper sound profile. This is primarily due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, allowing for clearer resonance and articulation. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) utilizes a nylon top housing, which offers a softer sound profile characterized by a deeper and fuller tone. The inherent absorption properties of nylon reduce sharpness, resulting in a rounder sound. Therefore, each switch will produce distinctly different auditory experiences when pressed, thanks to the material differences in their upper housings.
As for their bottom housings, both the Rice Pudding and the Xinhai (Heavy) are constructed using nylon, a classic choice in switch design. This similarity means that both switches can achieve a rich and deep sound response due to nylon's sound-dampening characteristics. Because nylon is less rigid, it absorbs more sound, enhancing the overall typing experience by providing a more muted and rounded output. In this regard, despite the top housing differences, users will find that the bottom housings contribute similarly to the sound profile when bottoming out, creating a common sonic ground for both switch types.
In analyzing the overall effect of these housing materials, one can expect a blend of results influenced by both the top and bottom housings. The sharper character of the Rice Pudding's polycarbonate top will provide an effective counterbalance to the fuller sound of its nylon bottom, while the Xinhai (Heavy) will present a cohesive full-bodied sound profile courtesy of its all-nylon housing. Hence, while their top housings diverge significantly in sound character, the shared material of nylon for the bottom housing ensures that both switches will deliver a pleasing acoustic experience during typing, albeit with different auditory highlights across the keypress dynamics.
Weight
When comparing the Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Rice Pudding switch features a light actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming due to reduced fatigue. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) has a stronger actuation force of 55 grams and a more substantial bottom out force of 62.5 grams, catering to users who prefer a more robust typing experience. This substantial difference in forces means that while the Rice Pudding is the lighter option, the Xinhai (Heavy) provides a heavier feel, appealing to a distinct set of user preferences. Therefore, for those seeking a lighter and less fatiguing option, the Everglide Rice Pudding is the clear choice, while those desiring a stronger tactile response should opt for the HMX Xinhai (Heavy).
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, it’s clear that the Rice Pudding switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly longer than the Xinhai (Heavy), which measures 3.4 mm. This difference, though minimal, may influence user preference based on their tactile preferences. Gamers often lean towards shorter travel distances for improved responsiveness, which is where the Xinhai switch may have an edge. However, for those who appreciate a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, the Rice Pudding switch's additional millimeter might be favored. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences in terms of depth and actuation speed, with the Rice Pudding offering that extra depth while the Xinhai provides a slightly more immediate response.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Rice Pudding has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Rice Pudding for $6.79.
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
The Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch offers a deep, rich sound profile that contributes to a satisfying auditory experience while typing. Its well-rounded acoustics create a balance between a pronounced thock and a smooth release, making each keystroke feel rewarding. This aspect is particularly appealing to users who appreciate a more substantial auditory feedback without being overwhelmingly loud. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch provides a distinctively crisp and higher-pitched resonance due to its POM stem. This switch is designed with a unique PA12 top housing, resulting in a softer acoustic profile that may generate a more subtle sound compared to the Rice Pudding. Ultimately, while both switches deliver a pleasant auditory experience, the Rice Pudding leans towards a deeper sound, whereas the Xinhai (Heavy) offers a sharper, more elevated resonance.
When it comes to feel, the Rice Pudding is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth operation, allowing for a seamless typing experience that many enthusiasts gravitate towards. The lack of tactile bump contributes to a great linear feel, which enhances the overall fluidity while typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Xinhai (Heavy) incorporates a heavier actuation that provides a substantial resistance when pressed, appealing to those who prefer a more deliberate keystroke. This robust feedback contributes to a sense of control and precision that can enhance typing speed and accuracy. Both switches, while differing in their resistance and weight, offer smooth operations, but the Rice Pudding emphasizes finesse, while the Xinhai (Heavy) focuses on a firmer tactile feedback.
In conclusion, both the Everglide Rice Pudding and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches bring their unique qualities to the mechanical keyboard arena. While the Rice Pudding stands out for its deep sound and smooth feel, creating a balanced typing experience, the Xinhai (Heavy) offers a crisper sound profile and a heavier actuation that caters to those who enjoy a more pronounced feedback. Depending on your preferences—whether you seek harmonious sound or a tactile resistance—each switch provides its individual charm, making them both compelling options for keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In conclusion, your choice between the Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch primarily hinges on your typing preferences and needs. If you lean towards a lighter touch and enjoy a smooth, satisfying typing experience with a deep sound profile, the Rice Pudding switches would be a fantastic fit for you. Their lighter bottom-out force of 48 grams makes them ideal for long typing sessions or gaming, where quick and effortless keystrokes are essential. Additionally, their compatibility with Wooting's keyboards adds versatility for those looking to explore advanced functionalities. Conversely, if you prefer a more substantial tactile feedback and enjoy the precision that comes with a heavier bottom-out force of 62.5 grams, then the Xinhai (Heavy) is likely the switch for you. This switch’s unique construction offers a crisp sound profile with softer acoustics, making it appealing if you value a refined typing experience that balances sophistication and performance. Thus, consider your typing style and the kind of experience you desire, as both switches excel in different aspects to cater to your specific requirements.
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