Gateron Smoothie vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Smoothie and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options are the Gateron Smoothie and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy)—both of which fall into the linear switch category but offer distinct experiences for typists and gamers alike. The Gateron Smoothie is celebrated for its all-POM construction, delivering a thocky sound signature that many users find satisfying, complemented by its notably smooth keystrokes and lightweight feel. This switch is particularly appealing for those who prioritize a creamy and subdued typing experience without breaking the bank. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) stands out with its unique PA12 top housing, which offers softer acoustics combined with a POM stem that contributes to a crisper, higher-pitched sound profile. This switch caters to users who appreciate a heavier touch and a more refined performance, making it ideal for those who prefer a slightly denser feel while typing. Both switches present strong arguments for different preferences and use cases; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that's right 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
3.60 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
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Smoothie and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), there are notable differences in the top housing composition. The Smoothie utilizes a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing, known for its unique ability to create a pleasing sound profile that is deeper and relatively more muted. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) features a nylon top housing, which has a reputation as a classic switch material. The nylon contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, achieved through its softer nature that absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. As a result, while both switches aim for a rich auditory experience, their fundamental characteristics arising from the different materials result in distinct sound qualities.
Examining the bottom housings also reveals similar variances. The Smoothie’s POM bottom housing echoes the same sound characteristics as its top counterpart—creating a muted and deep sound profile. Conversely, the nylon bottom housing of the Xinhai (Heavy) reinforces the classic attributes of nylon, blending to create not just a deeper sound but also one that feels richer and more rounded due to the material’s sound-absorbing properties. This inherent quality of nylon ensures an impactful auditory experience as the user types; the bottom housing’s role is crucial in determining the bottom-out sound and feedback of the switch.
Despite the differences between the POM and nylon materials, both switches strive to provide a satisfying experience, albeit from different starting points. The Smoothie will offer a distinct auditory signature with its POM components, while the Xinhai (Heavy) will provide a more traditional and fuller sound profile due to its nylon make. This means that while tactile feedback might be consistent across switches, the auditory feedback will differ markedly, shaping the user’s typing experience. Therefore, those selecting between the two will make their choice based not only on sound preferences but also on the nuanced feelings felt during use, as the characteristics of the top and bottom housings combine to present unique performance outcomes for each switch.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Smoothie linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, notable differences arise in their actuation forces. The Smoothie requires a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a softer touch for extended typing sessions, such as during work or long gaming marathons. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) demands a stronger actuation force of 55 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience that some users might find more satisfying, especially those who favor heavier switches. Regarding bottom out force, the Smoothie's value is unknown, while the Xinhai's bottom out force is measured at 62.5 grams. This further accentuates the Xinhai's heavier feel, as users will experience a firmer resistance when fully pressing down. Overall, those seeking a lighter and more comfortable switch for prolonged use may gravitate towards the Gateron Smoothie, whereas individuals who appreciate a more robust switch experience should consider the HMX Xinhai (Heavy).
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Smoothie linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, we find that the Smoothie has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Xinhai (Heavy) measures slightly shorter at 3.4 mm. This makes the Smoothie the preferable option for those who enjoy a more substantial and deeper key press, as it provides a greater depth of travel. Conversely, the Xinhai (Heavy), with its shorter travel distance, may appeal to gamers and those seeking swift response times, as shorter distances can facilitate quicker keystrokes. Thus, the choice between the two switches hinges on personal preference: if you value a more pronounced tactile journey, the Gateron Smoothie would be ideal, whereas for players favoring rapid execution, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) might be the better fit.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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 Gateron Smoothie switch boasts a thocky sound signature, characterized by its deep and satisfying tone that gives it a rich auditory experience. This low-pitched sound produces a delightful thud or soft knock when the keys are pressed and released, creating a pleasing acoustic environment for the typist. Moreover, the Smoothie's subdued nature means that it's not overly loud, providing a dampened sound that fits well in quieter environments. In contrast, the sound profile of the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch is not clearly established, which makes it difficult to compare directly. However, it features a softer acoustics profile due to its unique PA12 top housing, suggesting that it may deliver a different auditory experience than the Smoothie, possibly leaning towards a less pronounced sound.
In terms of feel, the Smoothie linear switch excels with a wonderfully buttery, creamy, and silky typing experience. The seamless and effortless action of the switch allows typists to glide their fingers effortlessly across the keys, creating a uniform and enjoyable keystroke sensation. Such a smooth keystroke can significantly enhance the overall typing experience, making it highly conducive to extended typing sessions. Unfortunately, the feel characteristics of the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch are unknown, leaving a gap in understanding how it compares in this area.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Smoothie switch is celebrated for its thocky sound and incredibly smooth feel, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) remains somewhat of a mystery in terms of its acoustic profile and tactile sensation. The Smoothie's acoustic and tactile qualities cater well to those seeking a satisfying typing experience, while the Xinhai's specifics would need further exploration for a well-rounded comparison on both sound and feel. Nonetheless, if you appreciate the experience provided by the Smoothie, you are likely to enjoy similar characteristics in other linear switches, but the unique traits of the Xinhai would require personal experimentation to assess fully.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Smoothie linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lightweight, buttery, and creamy experience with a thocky sound, the Smoothie will likely be your go-to option. Its smooth keystrokes and subdued yet satisfying sound make it ideal for casual typing, gaming, or crafting an aesthetically pleasing acoustic profile without being disruptive. On the other hand, if you enjoy a bit more resistance in your keystrokes and appreciate a heavier bottom-out force that offers more feedback, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch would be a great choice. Its sophisticated design and crisp resonance add a layer of precision that can enhance your typing experience, particularly for tasks that require accuracy or prolonged typing sessions. Therefore, consider what aspects—force, sound, and smoothness—are most important to you as you make your decision.
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