Everglide Sakura Pink vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)

Overview

When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the choice between the Everglide Sakura Pink and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switches presents intriguing contrasts tailored for different typing preferences. The Sakura Pink switches are celebrated for their ultra-light 35g actuation force, making them ideal for delicate typists who favor a smooth, effortless typing experience. Their poppy sound profile, akin to popping bubble wrap, adds a playful element that many enjoy during extended typing sessions. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches offer a sturdier alternative with a robust design, featuring a PA12 top housing that provides softer acoustics and a POM stem that results in a crisp, high-pitched resonance. While the Sakura Pink could appeal to those seeking effortless keystrokes and a fun auditory experience, the Xinhai (Heavy) is perfect for users who prefer a more substantial feel and refined sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Everglide Sakura Pink Linear

HMX Xinhai (Heavy) Linear

$6.86

$3.89 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Sakura Pink and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), it becomes clear that they utilize different plastics, each contributing unique sonic characteristics to the overall typing experience. The Sakura Pink features a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to polycarbonate’s stiffer nature, allowing for a clear and resonant sound that can effectively project sound, particularly when RGB lighting is involved, enhancing both visibility and aesthetic appeal. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) employs nylon for both the top and bottom housings. Nylon's softer composition leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it absorbs sound waves more effectively than harder materials like polycarbonate, resulting in a sound that is more muted and rounded.

While both switches aim to provide a unique typing experience, the differences in their housing materials create distinct auditory responses. The pole position of polycarbonate in the Sakura Pink ensures that those desiring clarity and brightness in their keystrokes may favor this model, particularly in RGB-lit setups where the translucency of polycarbonate comes to the forefront. Conversely, users who prefer a more subdued and rounded auditory feedback may gravitate towards the Xinhai (Heavy), which emphasizes a softer touch and a more reserved acoustic signature due to the sound-absorbing properties of nylon. This differentiation makes it essential for switch enthusiasts to consider their personal preferences when choosing between the two.

Moreover, the interaction between the materials of the top and bottom housings enhances the overall feel and acoustic experience. In the case of the Sakura Pink’s entirely polycarbonate build, there is a consistent sharpness in both the bottom-out impact and the release sound, providing a cohesive sound experience. On the other hand, the Xinhai's dual nylon housing brings out the softer characteristics, softening the bottom-out sound while deepening the release tone; thus, each keypress is enveloped in a unique auditory character. Ultimately, understanding these materials allows users to predict the overall sound profile and tactile feedback of each switch, ensuring they select the switch that best aligns with their typing style and auditory preferences.

Weight

The Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch present distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for different preferences in typing experiences. The Sakura Pink switch has a light actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, which caters to users who prioritize prolonged typing comfort and lighter key presses, making it ideal for extended use in both work and gaming scenarios. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch features a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial and tactile feedback during typing. Consequently, the Sakura Pink is the lighter option, promoting ease of use, while the Xinhai (Heavy) offers a heftier feel for a more engaging typing experience. Overall, users will achieve distinctly different sensations and experiences depending on which switch they choose, depending on their individual preferences for lightness or weight in their keyboard.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, a distinct difference emerges: the Sakura Pink features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Xinhai (Heavy) has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Sakura Pink the more traditional option, offering a more substantial feel when pressed, which some users might prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Xinhai (Heavy) may appeal to gamers who favor rapid response times and quicker actuation, catering to those who value speed over depth. Ultimately, if you seek a more responsive experience, the Xinhai (Heavy) is the preferable choice, while the Sakura Pink may be ideal for those who appreciate a deeper key press.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound profiles of the Everglide Sakura Pink and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switches, the Sakura Pink stands out with its distinctive poppy sound, akin to the delightful sensation of popping bubble wrap. This switch exhibits a muted characteristic, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to many traditional mechanical switches, which can be appealing for those seeking a less intrusive auditory experience. In contrast, there is no specific sound descriptor provided for the Xinhai (Heavy), leaving its acoustic qualities somewhat unknown. However, the uniqueness of its PA12 housing suggests a potential for softer acoustics, possibly resulting in a nuanced sound that might cater to those looking for a more refined auditory experience in their keystrokes.

In terms of feel, the Sakura Pink linear switch is celebrated for its buttery, creamy, and frictionless characteristics. A feather-light actuation force of 35g makes it exceptionally easy to press, allowing for a graceful typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue, especially during extended sessions. The descriptions emphasize a seamless keystroke that feels almost effortless, providing a unique joyous experience for typists. On the other hand, the details regarding the feel of the Xinhai (Heavy) switch are not provided, leaving a gap in the comparison. However, the promise of a heavier variant may imply a different tactile feedback or resistance, catering to those who prefer a more deliberate keystroke.

In summary, the Everglide Sakura Pink switch exemplifies a light, muted auditory profile paired with a remarkably smooth and frictionless feel, making it perfect for delicate touch typists. While the Xinhai (Heavy) switch remains largely undetermined in terms of sound and feel, its construction hints at a sophisticated profile that could appeal to users looking for a heavier touch. Ultimately, both switches offer their unique qualities, with the Sakura Pink rendering a playful yet refined typing experience, while the Xinhai (Heavy) may present an intriguing option for those favoring additional weight in their keystrokes.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you enjoy a feather-light feel and a playful auditory experience, particularly if you are a delicate typist or you engage in extensive typing sessions that demand minimal finger fatigue, the Sakura Pink is an excellent choice. Its low actuation force and unique buttery, creamy feel combined with a muted sound profile make it ideal for both casual typing and productivity tasks. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial tactile feedback and a higher bottom-out force while still maintaining a sophisticated sound, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch is what you should consider. Its unique material construction provides a crisper acoustics profile, making it suitable for those who favor a more robust typing experience. Overall, your selection should align with whether you prioritize a light, smooth typing feel or a heavier, more pronounced keystroke.

Mentioned in this article

Everglide Sakura Pink Linear

$6.86

$3.89 per 10

Learn more

HMX Xinhai (Heavy) Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more