HMX Xinhai (Heavy) vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can significantly influence your typing experience, and two noteworthy options are the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°. The HMX Xinhai (Heavy) is revered for its robust performance and distinctive acoustic properties, combining a unique PA12 top housing with a POM stem to deliver crisp, higher-pitched sounds while retaining a smooth keypress feel. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate a slightly heavier actuation, allowing for confident typing and gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° sets itself apart with its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, which ensures a silent and ultra-smooth typing experience—perfect for users who prefer a quieter environment or tend to type extensively. Both switches cater to different needs and preferences, making them appealing choices for various users. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you most.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, there is a distinct divergence evident in the choice of materials for the top housing. The Xinhai (Heavy) employs nylon, a softer plastic that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This choice is reflective of nylon's sound-absorbing properties, allowing it to create a duller and rounder sound that many users appreciate for a more muted typing experience. In contrast, the Zero Degree 0° opts for polycarbonate for its top housing, a material known for its stiffness, which consequently fosters a sharper and crisper sound profile. This stark difference sets the stage for varied auditory experiences with each switch type, where the nylon housing tends to offer warm, deeper tones, while the polycarbonate enhances clarity and brightness.
Interestingly, when it comes to the bottom housing, both the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches utilize nylon. This similarity means that the typing experience at the bottom of the switch, particularly the bottom-out sound and feel, is quite consistent across both models. As nylon is renowned for its sound absorption capabilities, users can expect a subdued and rich auditory feedback from the bottom-out action, regardless of the top housing material. Consequently, while the acoustic signature during the release of the key varies between the two switches due to their differing top housings, the bottom housing ensures a common, rounded experience when the key is fully pressed down.
Ultimately, the contrasting materials of the top housings dictate not only the sound profile but also the overall feel of typing on each switch. The nylon top housing of the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) emphasizes a rounded, warmth-filled experience, while the polycarbonate top of the Zero Degree 0° enhances clarity and resonance. However, the shared nylon bottom housing harmonizes the experience, particularly during key presses. As a result, while both switches cater to different auditory preferences based on their top materials, their shared nylon bottom ensures a consistently satisfying typing experience at the point of actuation.
Weight
The HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch present notable differences in their actuation forces, influencing the typing experience for users. The Xinhai (Heavy) requires a stronger actuation force of 55 grams compared to the lighter 45 grams of the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, making it more suitable for those who prefer a firmer feel during typing or gaming. Additionally, while the Xinhai's bottom out force is 62.5 grams, the bottom out force for the Gateron Zero remains unknown. This implies that those seeking a more substantial feedback from their keystrokes may favor the Xinhai for its higher bottom out force. Therefore, for users who prioritize a lighter switch for extended typing sessions, the Gateron Zero would be preferable, while those desiring a heavier switch for a robust typing experience might lean towards the Xinhai.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch is 3.4 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Xinhai (Heavy) offers a more responsive experience due to its shorter travel distance, which can be particularly advantageous for gamers seeking quicker response times. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch, with its 3.6 mm travel, may provide a more substantial feeling when pressed, appealing to those who appreciate a bit of depth in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences, with the Xinhai (Heavy) being the shorter option and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° presenting the longer travel distance.
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 Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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 discussing sound, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch produces a unique acoustic profile thanks to its PA12 top housing and POM stem. The combination of materials results in a softer sound that possesses a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance, offering a refined auditory experience without being overly loud. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch focuses on silent typing with its innovative self-padding design, which effectively absorbs sound and minimizes noise. This makes it an excellent choice for users seeking a more subdued auditory environment, especially in shared spaces. While both switches provide a different sound characteristic — the Xinhai with its crispness and the Zero Degree with its quietness — ultimately, the overall sound can also be influenced by other factors such as keycaps and the keyboard layout.
In terms of feel, the Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch is known for its heavier actuation force, providing a robust tactile feedback that can enhance the typing experience for users who prefer a more substantial keypress. This added weight can contribute to a sense of control and precision during typing sessions. Conversely, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is designed to offer a soft, elastic feel that is smooth and gentle on the fingers, making it particularly appealing for extensive typists or those who enjoy a lighter touch. While the Xinhai caters to those who appreciate a firmer response, the Zero Degree invites a relaxed typing experience.
In conclusion, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch present distinctive sound and feel characteristics catering to different user preferences. The Xinhai offers a refined, high-pitched resonance with a heavier tactile feedback, ideal for users who seek both auditory satisfaction and a solid typing feel. Conversely, the Zero Degree emphasizes quietness and an ultra-smooth experience, perfect for those in noise-sensitive environments who prefer lighter keystrokes. Choosing between them will ultimately come down to individual preference for sound and feel, with both switches excelling in their respective design philosophies.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal typing preferences and the environment in which you’ll be using your keyboard. If you appreciate a more tactile response with a bit of weight behind each keypress, the Xinhai (Heavy) with its 62.5 grams bottom-out force may be more suitable for you, especially if you're looking for a switch that offers a unique sound profile and a distinct, crisp typing experience. On the other hand, if your priority is to maintain a quieter workspace while typing smoothly and efficiently, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° should be your go-to option with its innovative self-padding design that not only minimizes noise but also provides a soft, elastic feel for an almost effortless typing experience. Therefore, consider your specific needs: choose the Xinhai (Heavy) for more feedback and a richer acoustic experience in environments where a bit of sound is acceptable, or opt for the Zero Degree 0° if you desire silent, smooth, and stable key presses that won’t disturb those around you.
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