HMX Twilight vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the HMX Twilight and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice can make a significant difference in your typing experience. The HMX Twilight and the HMX Xinhai, both linear switches, offer distinct features that cater to different preferences. The Twilight is renowned for its extended 3.85mm travel distance, promoting a slightly quieter sound while still preserving that classic clacky feedback synonymous with HMX switches. This can be an appealing choice for users who desire a balance between tactile satisfaction and subdued acoustics. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch shines with its unique PA12 top housing, providing a softer acoustic profile complemented by a POM stem that delivers a crisp, higher-pitched resonance. With its tags of being 'Bouncy,' 'Clacky,' and 'Creamy,' the Xinhai switch offers a delightful blend of refined performance and nuanced feedback ideal for typists who appreciate subtlety in their keystrokes. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.85 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
Nylon
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
The housing materials of both the HMX Twilight and the HMX Xinhai are identical, as each utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housings. This choice of material is significant, considering its reputation as a classic switch housing option in the keyboard industry. With nylon being a softer plastic, it contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The inherent properties of nylon help absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder auditory experience. Consequently, users of both models can expect remarkably similar auditory feedback during their typing sessions.
While the materials in the HMX Twilight and HMX Xinhai are the same, the distribution of the qualities between the top and bottom housings plays a crucial role in the overall typing experience. The bottom housing, being responsible for the bottom-out sound and feel, might create a slightly different experience based on the specific switch design, even though both models share the same nylon composition. The bottom housing's impact on the feel of the key press ensures that any differences typically attributed to housing materials translate into nuanced tactile experiences rather than significant sound profile disparities.
In terms of sound characteristics, both the Twilight and Xinhai maintain a uniform sound profile due to their nylon constructions. Upon release of the keys, the top housing significantly influences the sound produced, while the bottom housing is vital for the moment of bottoming out. Since both models employ nylon, users will notice a similarly muted and rounded sound regardless of the specific model they choose. Ultimately, the use of the same material in both models implies that, while there may be slight variances in feel based on the design, the auditory experience will remain consistent across both keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Twilight linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, both options display relatively light characteristics suited for users seeking a comfortable typing experience. The Twilight switch has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Xinhai switch features an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This makes the Xinhai switch the lighter option in terms of both actuation and bottom out force, providing an even lower resistance for users who may favor longer typing sessions or extended gaming. However, the Twilight switch, being heavier, may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel while typing. Both switches exhibit light force values overall, suggesting that users will experience less fatigue during use, but the specific weight differences can guide personal preference towards either a lighter or slightly heavier touch.
Travel distance
The HMX Twilight linear switch features a travel distance of 3.85 mm, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This difference in travel distance affects the overall feel of each switch: the Twilight offers a more substantial depth, appealing to users who prefer a hearty feel in their keystrokes, while the Xinhai’s shorter travel distance caters to gamers seeking quicker response times. The Twilight's longer travel distance provides a more pronounced sensation with each keypress, which some users might appreciate for a more tactile experience. In contrast, the Xinhai's design contributes to a snappier action, aligning with the current trend favoring shorter distances for faster performance. Therefore, if you value responsiveness, the Xinhai would be the better choice, while the Twilight is better suited for those who enjoy a more traditional keystroke depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Twilight has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Twilight for $3.29.
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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Twilight linear switch presents a slightly quieter auditory experience, attributed to its extended 3.85mm travel distance, which tends to absorb more impact during key presses. This characteristic allows it to maintain the clacky essence that HMX switches are known for while minimizing extraneous noise during typing. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai switch delivers a distinctly crisper and brighter sound profile, largely due to its unique PA12 top housing and POM stem. This combination produces a sharp, percussive quality that can be described as snappy and lively, adding an engaging auditory dimension to the typing experience. While both switches offer unique sound characteristics, personal choice and setup may further influence how each performs in different environments.
In terms of feel, the HMX Twilight switch does not have a defined descriptor for its tactile feedback provided in the available information, leaving something to be explored for those who choose to type on it. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai switch embodies a dynamic typing experience with its bouncy feel, offering a spring-like responsiveness that gives a satisfying rebound while typing. Additionally, its creamy texture contributes to a smooth and buttery experience, likely resulting from either factory lubrication or specific material choices. Together, these qualities create a lush typing sensation, in stark contrast to the more ambiguous tactile feedback of the Twilight switch.
Ultimately, the HMX Twilight and HMX Xinhai switches offer distinct auditory and tactile experiences, making them suitable for different preferences in mechanical keyboards. The Twilight’s slightly muted sound combined with an undefined feel contrasts with the Xinhai’s crisp and lively auditory feedback, paired with its bouncy and creamy tactile sensation. While both switches cater to unique typing styles and sound preferences, understanding these qualities may help newcomers to mechanical keyboards narrow down their choices based on personal liking and typing habits.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Twilight and HMX Xinhai linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and the specific typing experience you desire. If you prioritize a longer travel distance and a quieter sound profile, the Twilight might be the better option for you. It provides a light bottom out force of 50 grams, perfect for those who enjoy a smoother typing sensation without the abruptness sometimes associated with more tactile switches. On the other hand, if you're looking for a switch that combines a crisp, higher-pitched resonance with an engagingly bouncy and creamy feel, the Xinhai is an excellent choice. With an even lighter bottom out force of 45 grams, it caters to users who appreciate a lively typing experience and subtle sophistication in their keyboard. So, consider what aspects matter most to you—whether it's sound, feel, or travel distance—and choose accordingly to enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
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