Dareu Sky POM vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Dareu Sky POM and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Sky POM and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) both present compelling options, each catering to different preferences in the typing experience. The Dareu Sky POM switch, renowned for its buttery smoothness and low-pitched clacky sound, is ideal for users who appreciate a soft actuation force paired with a satisfying auditory feedback without sacrificing affordability. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) brings a unique twist to the table with its heavier actuation and distinctively crisp acoustics derived from its PA12 top housing. This creates a sophisticated typing experience that may appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feel. While both switches are linear and can enhance your overall typing efficiency, they do so with different auditory and tactile characteristics that can fit varied user needs. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Sky POM and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) exhibit notable differences in their top housing materials, which significantly influence their sound profiles. The Sky POM utilizes POM (polyoxymethylene) for its top housing, leading to a unique sound that is deeper and more muted. This material creates an acoustic environment that dampens higher frequencies, resulting in a sound that is appreciated for its warmth and subtlety. In contrast, the top housing of the Xinhai (Heavy) is made of nylon, a classic switch housing material. While both materials contribute to a deeper sound profile, the softer nature of nylon ensures a fuller resonance that absorbs sound and yields a rounder auditory experience. Thus, while both materials are effective in creating rich sound profiles, the POM and nylon differ distinctly in the nuances of their acoustic output.
When considering the bottom housing of both switches, the Dareu Sky POM and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) converge on the use of nylon. This shared material choice enhances the acoustic characteristics of each switch, as nylon's properties significantly impact the typing experience. The softness of nylon allows it to absorb sound effectively, delivering a consistently deeper and fuller sound profile regardless of the specific design of the top housing. Therefore, typing on either switch will evoke a similar auditory response at the bottoming out stage. The uniformity of the bottom housing material underlines the synergy between the upper and lower components, ultimately contributing to a harmonious typing experience.
Overall, while the Dareu Sky POM and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) present variations in their top housing materials, they converge in using nylon for the bottom housing, which harmonizes their sound profiles. The POM top of the Sky POM brings a distinctive muted quality, while the nylon top of the Xinhai (Heavy) amplifies the sound's fullness. This combination means that while users may experience some differences when typing or listening to the sound produced by each switch, using the same nylon material for the bottom housing ensures that they will achieve a satisfying auditory experience rooted in a deeper sound. Thus, both switches promise an enjoyable typing performance, albeit with different auditory subtleties.
Weight
The Dareu Sky POM linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch differ significantly in their actuation forces, with the Sky POM requiring a lighter force of 40 grams compared to the Xinhai's heftier 55 grams. This makes the Sky POM a more suitable choice for those who prefer a lighter touch, allowing for prolonged typing sessions without fatigue, especially beneficial in work or long gaming environments. On the other hand, the Xinhai (Heavy) offers a more substantial actuation, appealing to users who enjoy a stronger push feel. However, the bottom out force for the Sky POM remains unknown, while the Xinhai boasts a definitive bottom out force of 62.5 grams. Overall, if you’re looking for a lighter switch for ease and comfort, the Sky POM is the way to go; conversely, if you lean toward a firmer typing experience, the Xinhai (Heavy) would be more appropriate.
Travel distance
The Dareu Sky POM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch features a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Xinhai (Heavy) the shorter option between the two, offering a more responsive keypress favored by gamers who prioritize quick reaction times. Conversely, the Sky POM's 3.8 mm travel distance provides a more traditional depth, appealing to users who appreciate a more substantial tactile experience. Though both switches are designed for linear performance, the difference in their travel distances caters to varying preferences: the Xinhai (Heavy) may feel more abrupt and immediate, whereas the Sky POM can deliver a more satisfying, deeper keystroke for those who enjoy a more deliberate typing sensation.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Sky POM has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky POM for $4.98.
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
When it comes to sound, the Dareu Sky POM switch is characterized by a low-pitched tone, offering a bass-heavy and mellow auditory experience. This can contribute to a more subdued typing environment, making it less intrusive and possibly more suitable for shared spaces. In contrast, while the specific sound profile of the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch isn't provided, its construction using a PA12 top housing likely leans towards a softer acoustics profile that could mitigate higher-pitched noises. Given that sound perception can vary based on the keyboard case and keycaps used, both switches provide options for users who prioritize different auditory experiences.
In terms of feel, the Sky POM excels with descriptors like buttery, creamy, and silky, alluding to an exceptionally smooth keystroke experience. This fluidity not only enhances typing efficiency but also provides a tactile satisfaction that many typists seek. The Xinhai (Heavy) switch, however, lacks specific descriptors regarding its feel. Therefore, the tactile experience it offers remains unknown. Users looking for a seamless and effortless typing sensation are likely to find the Dareu Sky POM particularly appealing.
In conclusion, the Dareu Sky POM and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switches present distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. With its low-pitched sound, buttery feel, and overall smooth typing experience, the Sky POM is an excellent choice for those seeking a relaxed and pleasant typing environment. Meanwhile, while the Xinhai (Heavy) switch's sound and feel remain less defined, its design suggests benefits in both areas. Users may want to explore these switches hands-on to determine which aligns best with their personal typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, the decision to choose between the Dareu Sky POM linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you seek a switch that offers a buttery, creamy, and silky feeling with a smoother overall keystroke experience, along with a low-pitched clacky sound, the Sky POM is an excellent choice, especially for those who prioritize comfort and an enjoyable typing experience at an accessible price point. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom-out force for a more deliberate typing feel and appreciate the unique acoustics profile that comes with the Xinhai's PA12 housing—producing a crisper, higher-pitched resonance—then the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch would be the better fit. This switch promotes a more confident typing experience, particularly for those who are accustomed to or enjoy a firmer key press. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you value a light and smooth touch or a more substantial and precise keystroke, allowing you to tailor your keyboard experience to match your needs and preferences.
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