Durock T1 vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Durock T1 and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between a tactile switch like the Durock T1 and a linear switch like the HMX Xinhai can greatly impact your typing experience. The Durock T1 is lauded for its comfortable typing feel with a medium bump and a soothing sound akin to rain falling on a window. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai offers a unique blend of soft acoustics and crisp, high-pitched resonance thanks to its PA12 top housing and POM stem. While the T1 is categorized as 'Stepped', 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Accented', 'Polished', the Xinhai falls under 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', 'Creamy'. Consider choosing the T1 for a tactile typing experience and the Xinhai for a smooth and precise performance. 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
N/A
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Durock T1 and the HMX Xinhai both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiff plastic that produces a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. On the other hand, the T1 and Xinhai differ in their choice of bottom housing material, with the T1 featuring nylon and the Xinhai also using polycarbonate. Nylon bottom housings create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer properties that absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder tone.
While the T1 and Xinhai share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing, their bottom housing materials set them apart. The T1's nylon bottom housing offers a different typing experience compared to the Xinhai's polycarbonate bottom housing. The T1's nylon bottom housing creates a deep and full sound profile, whereas the Xinhai's polycarbonate bottom housing absorbs less sound, resulting in a crisper sound. This difference in bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of typing on each switch, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in switches like the Durock T1 and the HMX Xinhai plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and typing experience. Both switches showcase the benefits of using polycarbonate for the top housing, including a sharper and more resonant sound. However, the difference in bottom housing materials - nylon in the T1 and polycarbonate in the Xinhai - leads to distinct sound profiles when typing. Ultimately, the combination of top and bottom housing materials contributes to the overall typing feel and sound of each switch, catering to different preferences and allowing for a diverse range of options for keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
In comparing the Durock T1 tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is evident that the T1 is the heavier option with a bottom out force of 67 grams, while the Xinhai is lighter with a bottom out force of 45 grams. The actuation force of the T1 is unknown, while the Xinhai has an actuation force of 37 grams. The T1 provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force, making it suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Xinhai is lighter, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions where fatigue may be a concern. Despite their differences, both switches offer distinct advantages based on individual preferences.
Travel distance
The Durock T1 tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Xinhai has a shorter travel distance compared to the T1. A 4.0mm distance is considered more traditional, while a 3.0mm distance is shallower. Gamers often prefer switches with shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the Xinhai a preferred choice for gaming purposes. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the T1 with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for keypress depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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
In terms of sound, the Durock T1 tactile switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, which provides a bass-heavy and mellow tone for a comfortable typing experience suitable for various settings. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch is characterized by a clacky sound, producing a sharp and snappy tone that enhances the typing feedback with a crisp, bright, and percussive quality. Keep in mind that the actual sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Durock T1 tactile switch is described as stepped, accented, and polished. This means that it offers a more subdued tactile feedback with clear pre-travel and post-travel stages, providing a medium level of tactility that is smooth and refined for a sleek typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai linear switch is known for its bouncy and creamy feel, giving a spring-like feedback and a buttery-smooth sensation to each keystroke, allowing for a lively and effortless typing experience.
In conclusion, the Durock T1 tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a more bass-heavy and mellow sound with a comfortable typing experience, the T1 may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a sharp and snappy sound with a buttery-smooth and lively feel, the Xinhai switch could be the ideal option for you. Ultimately, both switches provide unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so selecting the one that aligns with your typing style and sound preference will ensure a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and low-pitched sound, then the Durock T1 switch would be a great choice for you. However, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a unique acoustics profile with a POM stem for a crisp, clacky sound, and a bouncy, creamy feel, then the HMX Xinhai linear switch might be the better option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and bottom out force. Consider trying out both switches to see which one suits your typing style and preferences the best.
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