HMX Sunset Gleam vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the HMX Sunset Gleam and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often gravitate towards the HMX Sunset Gleam and HMX Xinhai, both of which are linear switches that cater to specific preferences. The HMX Sunset Gleam, often affectionately dubbed the Duck Duck switch, is celebrated for its harmonious mix of materials, which delivers a satisfying clack and a subtle top-out experience. Its reputation is further enhanced by HMX's exceptional factory lube, making it a top pick for those seeking a smooth and tactile typing sensation. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai stands out with its unique PA12 top housing, designed to offer a gentler acoustic profile, paired with a POM stem that contributes to a crisp, higher-pitched sound. This switch achieves a blend of bouncy, clacky, and creamy characteristics, appealing to users who appreciate a refined acoustic experience. Both switches have their own distinct attributes, making them desirable for different typing styles and preferences; 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
42g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
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
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Sunset Gleam and the HMX Xinhai differ significantly in their top housing materials, which directly impacts the sound profile and user experience. The Sunset Gleam features a polycarbonate top housing, renowned for enhancing sound clarity due to its stiffness. This material results in a sharper and crisper sound profile, making it particularly fitting for users who appreciate a brighter auditory feedback. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects to shine through, adding to the aesthetic appeal of any keyboard setup. In contrast, the Xinhai opts for a nylon top housing, a classic choice that yields a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound than polycarbonate, resulting in a more muted and rounded auditory experience, which may appeal to users who prefer a more subdued key sound while typing.
However, both switches share a commonality in their bottom housing, as both the Sunset Gleam and the Xinhai utilize nylon. This creates an interesting dynamic where the lower housing material contributes similarly to the typing experience. As both housings are made of nylon, users can expect a consistent sound signature regarding the bottoming-out feel. The nylon bottom housing's inherent qualities – such as deeper sound absorption and a fuller sound profile – remain the same across both models. This design choice allows for a seamless blending of experiences, ensuring that even with different top housing materials, the overall typing experience retains a level of consistency, particularly during the act of pressing down on keys.
Ultimately, the differences between the HMX Sunset Gleam and the HMX Xinhai's top housing materials create distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The polycarbonate top of the Sunset Gleam produces a bright and resonant sound that stands out, especially in RGB-lit environments. Meanwhile, the nylon top of the Xinhai offers a warmer, more rounded sound that envelops typists in a soothing acoustic experience. Despite these differences, the shared nylon bottom housing means that both switches maintain a deeper, fuller sound upon bottoming out, bridging the gap between distinct auditory properties while offering an engaging typing experience in their own right.
Weight
The HMX Sunset Gleam and HMX Xinhai linear switches both feature light actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for users who prefer an easier typing experience. The Sunset Gleam has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Xinhai is even lighter with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the Xinhai switch is the lighter option overall. Users who favor lighter switches, like the Xinhai, are likely to find extended typing or gaming sessions less fatiguing due to the reduced effort required to activate the keys. In contrast, those who appreciate a more substantial typing experience might prefer the Sunset Gleam’s slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Despite their differences, both switches offer a relatively similar feel, catering to those who enjoy a light touch in their keyboard experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, we find that the Sunset Gleam has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Xinhai measures slightly shorter at 3.4 mm. This makes the Xinhai the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers or users who prioritize faster response times. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam offers a longer travel distance, potentially catering to those who prefer a more substantial keystroke feel. Both switches are relatively close in specification, with only a 0.1 mm difference, meaning users can expect a similar experience in terms of overall performance, though with a slight preference based on their personal preferences for responsiveness or depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Sunset Gleam has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sunset Gleam for $2.99.
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
The sound profile of the HMX Sunset Gleam is characterized by a subtle top-out and a satisfying clack, making it an appealing choice for users who appreciate a well-rounded auditory experience without being overly harsh. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai switch tends to produce a notably clacky sound, which is described as sharp, snappy, crisp, bright, and percussive. This distinction in sound makes the Xinhai potentially more vibrant and lively, whereas the Sunset Gleam may offer a more subdued yet enjoyable auditory feedback. However, it's essential to note that sound perception is not solely dependent on the switch itself but can also be influenced by the type of keyboard and keycaps utilized.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Sunset Gleam delivers a pleasing experience that is yet to be distinctly defined, but the qualities it embodies promise a solid performance. On the other hand, the Xinhai is noted for providing a bouncy feel with a spring-like feedback sensation, contributing to a lively typing experience as the keys rebound nicely upon being pressed. This switch also features a creamy texture, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience that allows fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys. The combination of the bouncy sensation and creamy feel in the Xinhai creates a dynamic tactile experience that can enhance typing pleasure and efficiency.
In conclusion, while both the HMX Sunset Gleam and HMX Xinhai switches cater to linear switch enthusiasts, they present distinct differences in sound and feel. The Sunset Gleam leans toward a more balanced, subtle auditory experience, while the Xinhai offers a crisper and more pronounced sound alongside a delightful tactile feedback. If you're looking for a well-rounded option, the Sunset Gleam may suit your needs, but if you prefer a lively and smooth typing feel, the Xinhai could be your go-to choice. Ultimately, your selection will depend on personal preference in both sound and tactile satisfaction.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the HMX Sunset Gleam and the HMX Xinhai linear switches, consider your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a slightly heavier feel with a satisfying clack and enjoy the benefit of excellent factory lubrication for a smooth typing experience, the Sunset Gleam might be the better option for you. It provides a well-rounded combination of tactile feedback and sound that many users find pleasurable, particularly for those who appreciate a little auditory charm while typing. On the other hand, if you are drawn to a switch that offers a bouncier feel and a crisper sound profile, the Xinhai could be the ideal choice. Its unique materials ensure a soft acoustic output while giving you that springy feedback that makes typing feel lively and engaging. Both switches have their strengths, so ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you prioritize a refined auditory experience with the Sunset Gleam or a dynamic tactile response with the Xinhai.
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