HMX Xinhai (Heavy) vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) and the Outemu Yellow Silver stand out as compelling choices for different types of users. The Xinhai (Heavy) offers a unique combination of sophistication and performance, featuring a durable PA12 top housing that lends itself to a softer acoustic profile, paired with a POM stem that provides a crisp, higher-pitched resonance during typing. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate a tactile feel and an auditory experience while they type or game. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch is designed with a lighter actuation force, making it an exceptional choice for gamers and typists seeking speed and responsiveness without compromise. Its neutral sound profile further enhances its versatility, allowing it to fit seamlessly into various typing environments. While both switches offer distinct experiences, they cater to different preferences in tactile feedback and sound. 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches, it is evident that the two switches utilize different materials for their top housings, significantly influencing their sound profiles. The Xinhai (Heavy) features a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon absorbs sound well due to its softer composition, leading to a more muted auditory experience that many users find appealing for typing. In contrast, the Yellow Silver employs a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper and more crisper sound profile. The rigidity of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of sounds produced when the key is released, which would create a distinctly different auditory feedback compared to the Xinhai (Heavy).
On the other hand, both the Xinhai (Heavy) and Yellow Silver utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This commonality means that when engaged, both switches share a similar feel and sound due to the dampening effects of nylon. Both switches will provide a deeper bottom-out sound and sensation, regardless of the differences in their top housings. With the bottom housing's influence being crucial for the actuation feel, users can expect a consistent underlying experience in terms of sound and feel when pressing the keys down. This makes typing on both switches fundamentally satisfying despite the contrasting characteristics of their top housings.
The combination of different top housing materials with the same bottom housing material results in distinct experiences contingent on how the switches are engaged and released. The nylon bottom enhances the tactile feedback and absorbing qualities, while the contrasting top materials manipulate the auditory feedback as the keys are released. Users who prefer a sound profile that is more rounded and muted may favor the Xinhai (Heavy), whereas those seeking bright, clear auditory cues may gravitate towards the Yellow Silver. Ultimately, while both switches share similarities in the bottom housing, their differing top materials offer users varied sensory experiences in the typing process.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Xinhai (Heavy) has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, categorizing it as a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the Outemu Yellow Silver offers a lighter experience, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, placing it in the medium-light category. Consequently, those who prefer a heavier typing experience might gravitate towards the Xinhai, as its higher actuation force provides a more substantial push feel. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver is better suited for users who favor lighter switches, reducing finger fatigue during extensive typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, while both switches serve their purpose, the Xinhai (Heavy) is the heavier option, whereas the Outemu Yellow Silver is the lighter choice.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Xinhai (Heavy) has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Yellow Silver features a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Yellow Silver switch will provide a deeper, more pronounced feedback when pressed, which some users may prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. Conversely, the Xinhai (Heavy) offers a shorter travel distance, appealing to gamers and those seeking quicker response times. Therefore, if you are looking for a switch that enables faster actuation, the Xinhai (Heavy) would be the more suitable choice, whereas the Yellow Silver would better serve those who appreciate a more substantial keystroke.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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 $2.99.
The Outemu Yellow Silver comes in at $3.40 per 10 switches.
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 Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch is celebrated for its softer acoustics profile, thanks to its unique PA12 top housing. This design allows for a more subdued sound when typing, while the POM stem contributes to a distinctly crisp and higher-pitched resonance, striking a balance between refinement and clarity. In contrast, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch has a neutral sound profile, characterized by its moderate actuation force requirement. This makes it versatile for both gaming and typing, ensuring that it remains unobtrusive whether you’re working in a quiet setting or engaging in a more active environment. While both switches produce different auditory experiences—one being more refined and the other straightforward—the overall sound experience can vary significantly depending on the keyboard’s construction and keycap choice.
Regarding feel, the Xinhai (Heavy) offers a heavier tactile experience that can be appealing to those seeking a bit more resistance during keypresses. This switch likely provides a satisfying feedback that helps with typing precision, promoting a sense of engagement with each stroke. In contrast, the Outemu Yellow Silver is designed for speed, featuring a light actuation force that promotes quick key presses, which can be particularly beneficial for gamers and those who favor rapid typing. The deliberate differences in weight and resistance between these two switches cater to distinct preferences—those who enjoy a more substantial push versus those who lean towards a quicker, effortless travel.
In summary, the Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch excels in offering a sophisticated auditory experience with a more substantial typing feel, while the Outemu Yellow Silver provides a neutral sound and a lighter, quicker actuation that appeals to speed-focused users. Though these switches may fulfill different niches, both options enable users to enjoy a highly customizable typing experience tailored to personal preference, whether you gravitate towards refined acoustics or a speedy engagement.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your specific needs and preferences. If you are a typist or gamer who appreciates a slightly heavier actuation with a satisfying tactile feedback, the Xinhai (Heavy) is likely your best choice. Its 62.5 grams force, combined with its unique PA12 top housing and POM stem, delivers a refined typing experience characterized by a softer acoustic profile and a distinctively higher-pitched resonance. This switch is particularly well-suited for those who enjoy a more deliberate typing experience, where each keystroke feels more substantial. On the other hand, if you find yourself needing a switch that supports rapid inputs and a lighter touch—ideal for high-paced gaming—the Outemu Yellow Silver will serve you well. With a 55-gram actuation force and a neutral sound profile, this switch provides a responsive experience without overwhelming noise, making it perfect for both casual and competitive gaming, as well as daily typing tasks. In essence, consider the Xinhai (Heavy) if you favor weight and nuance in your keystrokes, while the Yellow Silver suits you if speed and lightness are your priorities.
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