Huano Sakura vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Huano Sakura and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the Huano Sakura and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Sakura switch is celebrated for its feather-light touch, making it an excellent choice for extended typing sessions, particularly for users who prefer a smooth and effortless keypress with medium acoustics that won't be disruptive in quieter environments. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) provides a more substantial feel, crafted with a unique PA12 top housing that ensures softer acoustics while delivering a crisp, higher-pitched resonance thanks to its POM stem. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy a bit more weight in their keystrokes, offering a blend of subtle sophistication and precise performance. Both switches have their distinct advantages: the Sakura excelling in comfort over long periods, and the Xinhai (Heavy) focusing on the tactile and auditory experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the Huano Sakura and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches showcase notable differences that affect the switches' characteristics and performance. The Sakura's top housing is constructed from polyketone (POK), which is renowned for its exceptional durability and low coefficient of friction at 0.04. This gives the switches a smooth and clacky feel, enhancing the user experience during typing. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) utilizes nylon for its top housing, a material that, while classic, results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. The inherent differences in the materials emphasize contrasting tactile sensations and acoustic outcomes, demonstrating how housing materials can significantly alter a switch's performance.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Huano Sakura and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) are equipped with nylon, which serves as a commonality between the two. This results in a similar typing experience when considering bottom-out sounds and feel, as nylon effectively absorbs sound and contributes to a rounder acoustic signature. Here, the shared use of nylon means that both switches create a rich and booming sound when pressed down. The consistency in bottom housings leads to an overlap in sound characteristics for both switches, proving how familiar materials can yield similar results in specific contexts despite differing top housing choices.
Ultimately, the juxtaposition of POK in the Sakura's top housing against the nylon utilized in the Xinhai (Heavy) creates a distinctive duality in user experience. While the nylon bottom of both switches ensures a consistent thumping sound and feel, the difference in top housing materials means that the acoustic outcomes when releasing a key will differ slightly. Users seeking a good blend of smooth, tactile feedback with clacky sounds may prefer the Sakura, while those looking for a softer, more muted sound might favor the Xinhai (Heavy). This combination of materials demonstrates the importance of housing choices in achieving desired auditory and tactile results in keyboard switches.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Sakura linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, a notable difference is evident in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Sakura switch features a relatively light actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch and longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams. This heavier resistance offers a more substantial typing experience, which may appeal to those who enjoy a firmer push feel while typing or gaming. Consequently, the Sakura is the lighter option, catering to users who value ease of use, while the Xinhai provides a more robust tactile experience for those who favor a stronger force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Huano Sakura linear switch measures at 3.6 mm, while the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This distinction means that the Sakura allows for a more pronounced key press, which may appeal to users who prefer a fuller tactile experience. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy), being the shorter of the two, is likely to provide quicker response times, making it more suitable for gamers who favor rapid key actuation. Overall, if you prioritize speed and responsiveness, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) is the better choice, whereas the Huano Sakura may cater to those who enjoy a deeper keystroke.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Sakura has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sakura for $3.29.
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
In terms of sound, the Huano Sakura linear switch is characterized by its medium acoustics, making it a balanced choice for users who prefer a quieter typing experience without completely sacrificing auditory feedback. This makes it suitable for long typing sessions, as it maintains a pleasant environment without significant distractions. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch offers softer acoustics due to its unique PA12 top housing. The POM stem contributes a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance, adding a subtle sophistication to the sound profile. Both switches provide a different auditory experience, catering to users seeking either a balanced sound or a crisp, refined tone.
When considering the feel of each switch, the Huano Sakura linear is known for its feather-light touch, which contributes to a smooth and effortless typing experience. This is particularly beneficial for extended use, allowing typists to maintain comfort over long periods. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) presents a heavier feel, which may require more force to actuate but allows for a more deliberate typing experience. This weight can be favorable for those who prefer enhanced feedback and engagement while typing, offering a tactile sensation that some users might find satisfying.
All in all, both the Huano Sakura and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switches provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Sakura excels in delivering a lighter touch with medium sound acoustics, making it a great option for those prioritizing comfort and endurance. Meanwhile, the Xinhai (Heavy) switches offer a more substantial feel and a softer acoustic profile, appealing to users who enjoy a more pronounced auditory and tactile experience. Depending on individual needs and typing styles, a user could find satisfaction in either option, as both switches can potentially offer a fulfilling keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when making a choice between the Huano Sakura linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, consider your typing style and comfort level. If you prefer a lighter touch and often engage in extended typing sessions, the Sakura's 45 grams of actuation force provides an effortlessly smooth experience that reduces finger fatigue. Its medium acoustics contribute to a pleasant typing environment without being overly loud, making it suitable for both quiet office settings and personal use. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more substantial feel while you type, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch, with its higher bottom-out force of 62.5 grams, offers a satisfying resistance that many enthusiasts find appealing. The Xinhai switch also features a unique PA12 housing for softer acoustics and a POM stem for a crisp, higher-pitched sound—perfect for those who value a more pronounced tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice comes down to whether you prioritize comfort and lightness or a more robust, precise feel while typing.
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