Durock White Lotus vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Durock White Lotus and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock White Lotus and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) stand out as intriguing options, each catering to different typing preferences. The White Lotus is celebrated for its light tactile feedback, offering a soft yet responsive experience that balances well for typists who spend extended hours at the keyboard, all while providing an aesthetically pleasing glow thanks to its removable light column that enhances RGB lighting effects. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) presents a linear option favored by those who prefer a smoother keystroke without tactile interruptions; its robust construction, featuring a PA12 top housing and a POM stem, delivers both a higher-pitched resonance and a satisfying acoustic profile. The choice between these two switches ultimately depends on your typing style and desired auditory experience; 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
46g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
56g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
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
Modified PC & UPE Blend
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 long spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Durock White Lotus and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches showcase contrasting materials in their top housings yet share similarities in their bottom housings. The White Lotus features a modified polycarbonate (PC) and unmodified polyester elastomer (UPE) blend for its top housing, presenting a unique and premium feel that's often sought after in high-quality switches. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) opts for a classic nylon material for its top housing, known for its sound-absorbing properties and a deeper sound profile. While both materials serve to create distinct tactile experiences, the choice of a modified PC and UPE blend in the White Lotus aims for a different type of acoustic characteristic and tactile feedback compared to the nylon employed by the Xinhai.
Despite their differing top housing materials, both switches employ nylon for the bottom housing, which contributes significantly to their acoustic profiles. The nylon material in both the Durock White Lotus and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) ensures that they produce a deeper and fuller sound when typing, as it absorbs sound more efficiently than harder plastics. This consistency in bottom housing underscores the advantages of nylon: a softer plastic that helps create a duller and rounder sound profile, making both switches appealing to users who prioritize audio feedback in their typing experience. Consequently, the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing allows both switches to effectively minimize harsher sounds and provide a more muted acoustics.
In terms of overall performance and typing experience, the differences in upper housing materials may lead to a varied key press and release behavior. The Durock White Lotus, with its modified PC and UPE blend, may yield a more distinct tactile sensation during activation. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) with its nylon top housing fosters a more subdued response. That said, both switches will deliver quality results in terms of sound profile due to the commonality of their nylon bottom housings. The effect of the bottom housing will dominate the sound and feel when bottoming out, while the characteristics of the top housing will influence the release sound—making both switch types capable of offering satisfying acoustic experiences albeit through different tactile feedback mechanisms.
Weight
When comparing the Durock White Lotus tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, significant differences in their actuation and bottom out forces become apparent. The White Lotus has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 56 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. Conversely, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and has a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, placing it in a medium range. This makes the Durock White Lotus the lighter option, appealing to users who prefer a switch that allows for extended typing sessions without fatigue, while the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Xinhai may be favored by those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Overall, if you prefer lighter switches for prolonged use, the White Lotus stands out, whereas the HMX Xinhai provides a firmer feel that some might find satisfying.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Durock White Lotus tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, it is clear that the White Lotus has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Xinhai (Heavy) measures 3.4 mm. This difference in distance highlights a notable divergence in feel and responsiveness. The shorter travel distance of the Xinhai (Heavy) makes it more favorable for gamers seeking quicker response times, which can contribute to an edge in competitive settings. In contrast, the White Lotus, with its 4 mm travel, offers a more pronounced tactile experience, which some users may prefer for its comforting depth and feedback. Consequently, if you prioritize quick and responsive actions, the Xinhai (Heavy) is the better choice, while those who enjoy a heartier keystroke might opt for the White Lotus.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock White Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the White Lotus for $4.57.
The HMX Xinhai (Heavy) 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 (Heavy) 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 considering sound, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch boasts a low-pitched tone that is both mellow and bass-heavy, making it less intrusive in shared environments. Additionally, its neutral sound profile provides versatility, suitable for various contexts, whether at home or work. While the sound characteristics of the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch are not explicitly detailed, the use of a PA12 top housing suggests that it may also emphasize softer acoustics. Thus, while the Xinhai may not match the specific acoustic profile of the White Lotus, it should still manifest a refined sound experience conducive to a more focused typing atmosphere.
Shifting to feel, the White Lotus switches are celebrated for their easy-to-press mechanism, requiring minimal force which greatly enhances comfort during extended use. With a mild and subtle resistance, they create a pleasant typing experience while keeping fatigue at bay. The Xinhai (Heavy), despite a lack of detailed descriptions regarding its tactile feedback, is known for its heavier actuation force which typically correlates with a more deliberate and precise typing feel. This distinction indicates that while both switches offer satisfying typing experiences, they cater to different user preferences—light and effortless for the White Lotus versus a potentially firmer feedback with the Xinhai.
In conclusion, both the Durock White Lotus and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches offer unique sound and feel qualities tailored for different typing experiences. The White Lotus shines with its delightful auditory and tactile features, making it an excellent choice for those who value comfort and subtlety in their typing sessions. Meanwhile, the Xinhai (Heavy) promises a distinct acoustic profile and a firmer feel, appealing to users who prefer a more robust engagement with their keyboard. Depending on your typing style and preferences, either option will provide a satisfying mechanical experience, whether you seek a tranquil low-pitched sound or a hefty tactile response.
Conclusion
To wrap up, choosing between the Durock White Lotus tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended usage. If you prioritize a light tactile feedback with a smooth and gentle typing experience, the White Lotus is your best bet. Its medium-light bottom out force of 56 grams makes it perfect for extended typing sessions, allowing you to type comfortably without straining your fingers. Additionally, its low-pitched, subtle sound profile pairs well with environments where quiet typing is appreciated, making it suitable for both home and office use. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier keystroke and a switch that offers a more pronounced tactile experience, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch would be ideal for you. With a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, it provides a more robust feel that many gamers and typists enjoy for its precision and feedback. Its softer acoustic profile also ensures that it doesn’t become too intrusive during use. In essence, go for the Durock White Lotus if you seek a serene and gentle typing experience, while the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) is your go-to switch if you favor a firmer touch and responsive performance.
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