Everglide Sunset Yellow vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)

Overview

When considering the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the Everglide Sunset Yellow and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) both present compelling options, albeit with distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Sunset Yellow, with its striking Creamsicle color and captivating sound profile reminiscent of mahjong tiles colliding, offers a rich, bassy experience that transforms typing into an indulgent activity. Its medium weight appeals to a broad range of users, while the unique Ly stem and proprietary factory lube method deliver a gliding feel that feels both polished and frictionless. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) showcases a heavier action crafted from PA12 housing, providing softer acoustics, combined with a POM stem that produces a crisp, higher-pitched sound. This switch embodies a blend of sophistication and performance, making it ideal for users seeking a more pronounced auditory feedback during typing. Both switches possess unique attributes that cater to different typing experiences; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Everglide Sunset Yellow Linear

HMX Xinhai (Heavy) Linear

$3.09 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Everglide Sunset Yellow and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches are constructed using different materials for their top and bottom housings, which significantly impacts their auditory characteristics. The Sunset Yellow utilizes POM (Polyoxymethylene) for both the top and bottom housings, known for producing a unique sound profile that tends toward the deeper and more muted end of the spectrum. This cohesive use of POM gives the switch a consistent auditory experience, where the sound produced while typing remains uniform and smooth, contributing to a distinctive overall acoustic signature.

In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) employs nylon for both the top and bottom housings. Nylon is recognized for its softer and more absorbent properties, which allows it to generate a slightly fuller and rounder sound profile. This contributes not only to the depth of the sound produced but also means that the auditory feedback while typing may feel less sharp compared to the POM housings of the Sunset Yellow. As such, while both switches aim for a deeper sound, the nuanced differences arise because of the inherent characteristics of the materials used and their respective impacts on the bottom-out feedback and release sound.

Despite these differences, the fundamental outcome of both switches shares a common goal: to provide a satisfying auditory experience tied to their material choices. While the inherent properties of POM and nylon lead to different sound profiles, the deep, muted, and full tones of each switch demonstrate that they can deliver a comparable experience. Players may find that whether they opt for the POM-based Sunset Yellow or the nylon-based Xinhai (Heavy), they will enjoy similar results in terms of an enjoyable typing experience, though the specific nuances of sound may differ based on the housing materials used.

Weight

The Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch present a notable contrast in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Sunset Yellow features an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 51 grams, classifying it as medium-light, which can be advantageous for users who prefer a lighter touch, making it ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch exhibits a higher actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, classifying it as medium, thus catering to those who enjoy a more substantial keystroke feel that offers a stronger pushback. As a result, if you prioritize a lighter switch for comfort over long periods, the Everglide Sunset Yellow would be the better choice, while the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) would appeal to users seeking a firmer typing experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, a notable difference emerges. The Sunset Yellow has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Xinhai (Heavy) features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.4 mm. This difference of 0.2 mm makes the Sunset Yellow the shorter option, providing a more responsive feel that many gamers appreciate for quicker key presses. On the other hand, the Xinhai (Heavy), with its longer travel distance, may appeal to those who prefer a more pronounced key press that delivers a sense of depth. Ultimately, if you're seeking a quicker response time, the Everglide Sunset Yellow would be the more suitable choice, while the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) would cater to users who favor a richer typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch features a captivating and rich sound profile often likened to the pleasant resonance of mahjong tiles colliding. This switch produces a distinctly bassy and thocky auditory experience, providing a deep and satisfying sound that is characterized by a low-frequency range, adding richness and depth to each keystroke. The Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, on the other hand, provides a softer acoustic profile with its unique PA12 top housing, which allows for a more refined sound experience. However, its specifics regarding sound are not detailed in the information available, leaving us to speculate on its exact qualities. While the Sunset Yellow emphasizes a deeper auditory impact, the Xinhai may present a more nuanced tone, but the exact comparison cannot be thoroughly established.

When it comes to feel, the Everglide Sunset Yellow switches excel with a noticeably creamy and frictionless typing experience, largely attributed to their factory lubrication and the materials utilized in their construction. This switch promotes a silky sensation under the fingers, allowing for effortless gliding across the keys that can enhance typing performance. The polished nature of the Sunset Yellow further contributes to a smooth, refined feel during typing. In contrast, the feel characteristics of the Xinhai (Heavy) are not specified, leaving an unknown in this aspect. Given the distinctions observed in the Sunset Yellow, any potential feel qualities of the Xinhai would need to be discovered through direct experience.

Overall, both the Everglide Sunset Yellow and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switches possess unique attributes that cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. The Sunset Yellow stands out for its rich, thocky sound and smooth, creamy feel, designed for a satisfying typing experience. Conversely, while the Xinhai offers a softer acoustic profile, its tactile feedback and overall experience remain less defined. Users seeking a deeper auditory experience with a refined tactile sensation may lean towards the Sunset Yellow, while the comparative subtleties of the Xinhai (Heavy) await further exploration.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Everglide Sunset Yellow and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switches boils down to your personal typing preferences and intended usage. If you appreciate a medium-light typing experience and enjoy a unique auditory feedback, the Sunset Yellow may be the ideal choice for you. These switches offer a creamy feel with a bassy sound profile that enhances the tactile experience, making them perfect for casual typing or gaming sessions where response time matters but you don’t want to feel fatigued. Conversely, if you prefer a more substantial switch with a touch of sophistication, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) might be better suited to your needs. With its heavier actuation force and crisper sound profile, this switch will appeal to those who enjoy a firmer keystroke, making it an excellent option for extensive typing tasks or if you want a bit more resistance to your presses. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your desire for sound, feel, and the type of work or gaming you engage in most.

Mentioned in this article

Everglide Sunset Yellow Linear

$3.09 per 10

Learn more

HMX Xinhai (Heavy) Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more