Dareu Snow vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Dareu Snow and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Snow linear switch to the HMX Xinhai linear switch, there are some notable differences to consider. The Snow switch stands out for its innovative use of POK material in both the top housing and stem, resulting in a deeper sound signature when typing. It is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bouncy'. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch offers a unique PA12 top housing for a softer acoustics profile and a POM stem for a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance. It is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', and 'Creamy'. If you prefer a deeper sound and neutral feel, the Snow may be the ideal choice for you. However, if you lean towards a softer acoustics profile with a higher-pitched resonance, the Xinhai could be the better option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on personal preferences and typing habits, so let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities to help you make the best choice for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.30 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
POK
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Snow and HMX Xinhai both use different materials for their top and bottom housings, with the Snow utilizing POK for the top and nylon for the bottom, while the Xinhai uses polycarbonate for the top and nylon for the bottom. The POK material in the Snow provides smoothness and durability, with a higher coefficient of friction compared to LY. On the other hand, the polycarbonate in the Xinhai creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. In terms of aesthetics, the Snow's POK material is opaque while the Xinhai's polycarbonate is clear and ideal for RGB lighting.
Both the Snow and Xinhai make use of nylon for their bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile that is duller and rounder compared to harder plastics. The difference lies in the impact each housing material has on the overall sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down, while the top housing influences the sound when the key is released. Despite using the same material for the bottom housing, the switches may still offer distinct typing experiences based on the top housing material.
Overall, the Dareu Snow and HMX Xinhai showcase how different housing materials can affect the sound profile and typing experience of a switch. While the Snow's POK top housing prioritizes smoothness and durability, the Xinhai's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and more resonant sound. Both switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing, resulting in a deeper sound profile. Understanding the unique qualities of each housing material can help users choose a switch that best suits their preferences for typing feel and sound.
Weight
The Dareu Snow linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch have different actuation and bottom out forces, with the Snow having a slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force compared to the Xinhai. The Snow requires 50 grams of force to actuate and 60 grams to bottom out, while the Xinhai only needs 37 grams to actuate and 45 grams to bottom out. This means that the Snow will provide a slightly more substantial typing experience with a bit more resistance, while the Xinhai will offer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Both switches provide a smooth linear typing experience, but the choice between the two will ultimately depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirement.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Dareu Snow linear switch is 3.3 mm, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm standard. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the Dareu Snow a popular choice in gaming keyboards. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial key press may prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the HMX Xinhai. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience you are looking for.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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 $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 Snow linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying auditory experience with each key press. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch produces a clacky sound, characterized by a sharp and percussive tone. Depending on your preference, the Snow switch may be more suitable for those who enjoy a deeper, bass-heavy sound, while the Xinhai switch appeals to individuals who prefer a crisp and bright acoustics profile.
Moving on to feel, both the Dareu Snow and HMX Xinhai switches are described as bouncy, providing users with a spring-like feedback sensation and a lively feel when typing. Additionally, the Xinhai switch offers a creamy typing experience, characterized by a smooth and buttery sensation that enhances the overall typing feel. Whether you choose the Snow or Xinhai switch, you can expect a responsive and tactile typing experience that responds well to your keystrokes.
In conclusion, the Dareu Snow linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch each offer unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. While the Snow switch provides a deeper and low-pitched sound with a bouncy feel, the Xinhai switch delivers a sharper and clacky sound along with a creamy typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound profile and typing feel. However, both switches are designed to offer a high level of performance and precision, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of your selection.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Dareu Snow linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a switch with a deeper sound signature, opt for the Snow switch. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a switch with a softer acoustics profile and distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance, go for the Xinhai switch. Additionally, if you enjoy a thocky, neutral, and low-pitched sound profile, the Snow switch is the way to go. However, if you prefer a clacky sound when typing, the Xinhai switch is more suitable. Both switches offer a bouncy feel, but the Xinhai switch also provides a creamy typing experience. Ultimately, your choice should align with your preferences for sound, feel, and bottom out force to enhance your typing experience.
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