Akko V3 Silver Pro vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Silver Pro and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Silver Pro and the HMX Xinhai Linear switches stand out among the rest. The V3 Silver Pro is tailored for gamers, boasting a light actuation force and shortened travel distance that can give you the edge in fast-paced gaming scenarios. Its keystrokes glide effortlessly, producing a pleasing bassy sound. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch offers a unique blend of soft acoustics and crisp, higher-pitched resonance thanks to its PA12 top housing and POM stem. While the V3 Silver Pro is described as 'Easy-to-press', 'Creamy', and 'Feathery', the Xinhai is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', and 'Creamy'. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs. 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
40g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
13.8mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Silver Pro and the HMX Xinhai are quite similar in terms of their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making it an ideal choice for those looking to customize the aesthetic of their keyboard. Additionally, the stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a more resonant sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience for users of both switches.
On the other hand, when it comes to the nylon bottom housing, the V3 Silver Pro and the Xinhai differ slightly. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housing. Despite this difference, both switches offer a unique typing experience that is influenced by the qualities of their respective bottom housing materials.
Overall, the use of different housing materials in the top and bottom of a switch can impact the sound and feel of typing in various ways. While the bottom housing contributes more to the bottom-out sound and feel of a key press, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound when releasing a key. By understanding how each housing material affects the sound profile and typing experience, users can choose the switch that best suits their preferences and needs. Whether it's the V3 Silver Pro or the HMX Xinhai, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with distinct characteristics based on their housing materials.
Weight
The Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 40 grams compared to the HMX Xinhai linear switch with an actuation force of 37 grams. However, both switches have the same bottom out force of 45 grams. In terms of weight, the Xinhai is slightly lighter in terms of actuation force, which may be preferred by those who like a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro offers a slightly heavier actuation force for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, both switches provide similar bottom out forces, so users can expect a consistent typing feel regardless of the slight differences in actuation force.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those who prefer faster response times, such as gamers. The difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, so in terms of feeling the key press, users may not notice a significant variation. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding the slight difference in travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Silver Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Silver Pro for $3.10.
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
In terms of sound, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch offers a high-pitched profile, providing a sharp and crisp sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai switch is described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used, so individual preferences will play a significant role in determining the overall sound experience.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch is known for being easy-to-press, offering minimal resistance during key presses for a more effortless typing experience. Additionally, it has a creamy feel that enhances the typing sensation with a smooth and buttery experience. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback with lively keys. It also shares the creamy feel, offering a silkier typing experience that glides effortlessly with each keystroke.
Overall, both the Akko V3 Silver Pro and HMX Xinhai switches have unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The V3 Silver Pro excels in providing a high-pitched sound profile and an easy-to-press, creamy feel, ideal for gamers and typists seeking a light and responsive typing experience. Meanwhile, the HMX Xinhai switch offers a clacky sound profile and a bouncy, creamy feel that combines precision and sophistication for those who enjoy a livelier typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preferences in sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
All in all, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch or the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your specific preferences and needs. If you are a gamer looking for switches with a light actuation force and shortened travel distance, the Akko V3 Silver Pro may be the better choice for you. These switches are designed to offer a smooth and effortless typing experience, perfect for gaming scenarios where quick responses are crucial. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a softer acoustics profile and a crisp, higher-pitched resonance, the HMX Xinhai switch may be more to your liking. The Xinhai embodies a blend of sophistication and performance, making it a great choice for those who value a unique sound profile and precise typing feel. Ultimately, your choice will depend on what factors are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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