Huano Strawberry Latte vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Huano Strawberry Latte and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often boils down to personal preference and typing style. The Huano Strawberry Latte offers a super smooth linear experience, distinguished by its balanced sound profile, which sits comfortably between quiet and overly resonant, making it an appealing option for both gamers and typists who seek a satisfying but not distracting auditory experience. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) presents a heavier switch variation that shines with its unique PA12 top housing, yielding softer acoustics alongside a POM stem that delivers a crisp, higher-pitched resonance. This blend of subtle sophistication and precise performance may attract those who enjoy a firmer feel under their fingers. Both switches have their merits—Strawberry Lattes for their smoothness and balanced sound, and Xinhai (Heavy) for their robust feedback and refined acoustics. 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
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
Standard
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
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Huano Strawberry Latte and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), a key point of contrast is found in the top housing material. The Strawberry Latte utilizes POK (polyketone) for its top housing, which boasts an impressive durability profile with a wear resistance significantly greater than POM and superior shock resistance compared to Nylon. This results in a smoother typing experience due to its lower coefficient of friction, offering a unique tactile response that enhances the switch’s characteristics. On the other hand, the Xinhai (Heavy) features a top housing made from Nylon, a well-known and conventional choice that contributes to a deeper sound profile, but lacks the enhanced durability and performance stats that POK provides. Consequently, the two switches demonstrate differing tactile sensations and sound dynamics due to this fundamental material choice.
Despite the different top housing materials, both the Strawberry Latte and Xinhai (Heavy) share Nylon for their bottom housings, aligning them in terms of sound production. This similarity allows both switches to exhibit a warm, full-bodied sound signature that is enhanced by the Nylon's softer plastic characteristics. As a classic switch housing material, Nylon absorbs sound effectively, contributing to a duller and rounder sound profile that can be pleasing to users who prefer a richer auditory experience. Thus, while the top housing of each switch presents distinct handling and durability advantages, the shared Nylon bottom housing helps to unify certain profiles in sound and feedback during use.
When considering performance outcomes, the combination of these materials means both switches can generate comparable audio experiences, albeit through different tactile avenues. The POK top housing of the Strawberry Latte combines with the Nylon bottom to balance smoothness with a rich sound depth, while the Xinhai (Heavy) leverages its Nylon top to create its signature deeper sound, enriched further by the same Nylon bottom. Both designs manipulate the user's experience by splitting the contributions of each material across the top and bottom housing, emphasizing different aspects of sound and feel depending on the user’s interaction with the switch. Ultimately, the results are unique to each model while fostering a coherent sound profile rooted in their shared bottom housing material.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces reveal distinct user experiences. The Strawberry Latte switch features a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a gentler touch, facilitating prolonged typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, catering to those who enjoy a more substantial push feel, which can enhance the tactile experience for typing and gaming. Consequently, while the Strawberry Latte is ideal for lightweight use, the Xinhai (Heavy) provides a firmer response, appealing to users who favor a stronger keystroke push. Overall, the difference in forces contributes to the switches' overall performance and suitability for varying preferences in typing style and usage duration.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, there is a notable difference. The Strawberry Latte has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the longer option, while the Xinhai (Heavy) features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it the shorter option. For individuals seeking more responsiveness and quicker actuation, the Xinhai switch may be preferable due to its reduced travel distance, which is beneficial for gaming and fast-paced activities. However, some users may find the Strawberry Latte's greater travel distance offers a more satisfying depth, potentially providing a more tactile experience. Overall, those who favor a deeper feel may gravitate towards the longer travel distance of the Strawberry Latte, while those prioritizing speed and quick response times might opt for the Xinhai (Heavy).
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Strawberry Latte has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Strawberry Latte 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 $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
The sound profile of the Huano Strawberry Latte switch is characterized by a balanced tone; it strikes a harmonious middle ground that isn’t overly quiet but also avoids excessive resonance. This makes it versatile for various environments, offering a pleasant auditory experience without being disruptive. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch stands out due to its unique design elements. With a PA12 top housing, it produces softer acoustic qualities complemented by a POM stem, which introduces a crisp and higher-pitched resonance. While both switches provide satisfying sound experiences, the Strawberry Latte offers a more subdued approach, whereas the Xinhai (Heavy) leans towards a sharper and crisper sound.
When it comes to feel, the Strawberry Latte is celebrated for its super smooth operation, making it ideal for those who prioritize a fluid keystroke without tactile interruptions. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) boasts a distinctive typing experience due to its heavier actuation force, crafting a typing feel that conveys more resistance and substance. This can provide extra feedback for users who prefer a firmer push against their fingers, accommodating varied typing preferences. Although both switches deliver enjoyable tactile experiences, the Strawberry Latte prioritizes smoothness, while the Xinhai (Heavy) emphasizes a more robust typing engagement.
In conclusion, both the Huano Strawberry Latte and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switches offer unique auditory and tactile characteristics that cater to different user preferences. The Strawberry Latte's balanced sound and ultra-smooth feel make it a great choice for those seeking a more understated experience, while the Xinhai (Heavy) captivates with its crisp, high-pitched sound and firmer typing feedback. Depending on your style of typing and sound preference, you can find satisfaction and performance in either switch, with the choice ultimately reflecting your personal tastes and requirements.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Huano Strawberry Latte and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switches largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of only 45 grams, the Strawberry Latte may be the ideal switch for you. It's designed for smoothness, making it excellent for long typing sessions or gaming, where rapid key presses are favored. Additionally, its balanced sound profile straddles the line between being pleasantly audible without being too loud or overly resonant, making it a great choice for shared or quiet environments. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more substantial resistance during each keystroke, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch, with its 62.5 grams of bottom-out force, would be more suitable. This switch not only provides a noticeable weight that many typists find satisfying but also features a refined acoustic profile thanks to its unique materials, offering a crisp sound that can enhance your typing experience. In summary, choose the Strawberry Latte for a lighter, smoother feel and versatile sound, or opt for the Xinhai (Heavy) for a firmer typing experience with a distinct acoustic quality.
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