Jwick Taro vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Jwick Taro and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Jwick Taro tactile switch to the HMX Xinhai linear switch, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Taro switch provides a cozy typing experience with a medium level of tactility and crisp clacks, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a tactile feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch boasts a softer acoustics profile and a distinctively crisp resonance, appealing to those who prefer a linear switch with a bouncy and clacky feel. 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
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Jwick Taro and the HMX Xinhai feature polycarbonate top housings which create a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This leads to a more clear and resonant sound overall, making them ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. The similarities in material choice for the top housing result in comparable sound qualities between the two switches, providing users with a consistent experience in terms of sound profile.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Taro and Xinhai utilize nylon which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. Nylon's softer plastic composition absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound that is preferred by many enthusiasts. The difference in bottom housing material between the two switches may lead to variations in sound and feel when typing on the switches, providing users with unique experiences based on the switch they choose to use.
Ultimately, the choice between the Jwick Taro and HMX Xinhai may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing experience. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and resonant sound, the difference in bottom housing material may result in variations in sound and feel. Whether you prefer the deeper sound of nylon in the Taro or the crisper sound of polycarbonate in the Xinhai, both switches offer quality housing materials that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
The Jwick Taro tactile switch has a significantly heavier bottom out force of 67 grams compared to the HMX Xinhai linear switch with a bottom out force of 45 grams. The actuation force of the Taro switch is unknown, while the Xinhai switch has an actuation force of 37 grams. The Taro switch provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, while the Xinhai switch offers a lighter touch for those who prefer a less strenuous typing experience. For individuals who prefer a lighter weight to type for extended periods, the Xinhai switch would be the better choice, whereas those who prefer a stronger push feel may opt for the Taro switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces in their typing experience.
Travel distance
The Jwick Taro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Xinhai is slightly shorter than the Taro. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular for their quick response times, particularly favored by gamers. However, some may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt, preferring a switch with a longer travel distance for a more substantial feel. Ultimately, the choice between the Taro and Xinhai will depend on individual preferences for travel distance in a tactile or linear switch. If you are looking for a switch with a slightly longer travel distance, the Taro would be the better option, while the Xinhai would be preferable if you prefer a shorter travel distance for faster responses.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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 Jwick Taro tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. The sound is described as acute and crisp, providing a satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch is known for its clacky sound, which is sharp, snappy, and percussive. The Xinhai switch's unique PA12 top housing contributes to a softer acoustics profile, while the POM stem produces a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance.
Moving on to feel, the Jwick Taro tactile switch provides a buttery typing experience, with a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation. The switch is also described as stepped, offering a mild tactile feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel stages. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai linear switch offers a bouncy and creamy typing experience. The bouncy sensation gives the keys a spring-like feedback, while the creamy feel allows for smooth and effortless keystrokes, akin to gliding your fingers across the keys.
In conclusion, the Jwick Taro tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Taro switch provides a neutral sound profile and a buttery, stepped feel, while the Xinhai switch offers a clacky sound and a bouncy, creamy feel. Both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, so choosing between the two would depend on whether you prefer a sharper, percussive sound or a smoother, spring-like typing experience. Ultimately, both switches are designed to provide a pleasant and satisfying typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a comfortable, cozy typing experience, the Jwick Taro switch would be a great choice for you. The Taro switch offers a snappy tactility and crisp clacks while providing a neutral sound profile that is suitable for various uses. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a lighter bottom out force and a sophisticated acoustics profile, the HMX Xinhai switch may be more to your liking. The Xinhai switch boasts a unique construction for a softer sound and a bouncy, creamy feel that adds a touch of elegance to your typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between the Taro and Xinhai switches will depend on your tactile and auditory preferences, so consider these factors carefully before making your decision.
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