HMX Xinhai vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can significantly influence the typing experience, and two noteworthy options from the HMX lineup are the standard Xinhai and its heavier counterpart, the Xinhai (Heavy), both categorized as linear switches. The original Xinhai switch is celebrated for its unique PA12 top housing that contributes to a softer acoustic profile, along with a POM stem that produces a crisp and higher-pitched sound. This switch offers a delightful typing experience characterized by a balance of bounce and a clacky feel, making it ideal for those who enjoy a lively yet controlled response. Conversely, the Xinhai (Heavy) retains the same appealing acoustic properties but introduces an increased resistance that caters to users who prefer a more substantial feel during typing, providing greater feedback without overwhelming tactility. Both switches promise a sophisticated and precise performance, yet they cater to different preferences in terms of force and feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that's right for you.

By the numbers

HMX Xinhai Linear

HMX Xinhai (Heavy) Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX Xinhai and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housing, which establishes a baseline for a shared auditory experience and tactile feedback. The use of nylon guarantees that both models will yield a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. This is attributed to nylon's softer plastic composition, which enhances sound absorption compared to harder plastics. As a result, users of both switches will likely experience a rounder sound and a more muted acoustic environment when typing, making both models appealing to those who prefer a more subdued auditory experience in their typing tasks.

Despite the similarities between the two models, the distinctions may arise in their intended applications and construction enhancements within the HMX Xinhai (Heavy). While both feature the same nylon materials, the "Heavy" designation may imply that the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) employs a thicker or denser variant of nylon, or it could potentially integrate additional material components that affect the switch's overall feel and performance, without altering the fundamental sound profile produced by the nylon itself. Depending on how the Heavy variant is designed, it could offer a more pronounced bottom-out feel or a slightly altered tactile response, enhancing the typing experience further.

Ultimately, since both the HMX Xinhai and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) utilize the same housing materials, the outcomes of sound and feel during typing will remain largely consistent regardless of the variations. Both types of switches will deliver a comparably muted sound while typing, thanks to the intrinsic characteristics of nylon. Users can expect a pleasant auditory experience from either switch, with possible distinctions in the nuances of tactile feedback or bottom-out sensations when utilizing the HMX Xinhai (Heavy). The differences may be subtle enough that users can switch between them without a significant adjustment period, as they will fundamentally operate on similar acoustic principles.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Xinhai linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, the differences in their actuation and bottom out forces highlight their suitability for various user preferences. The Xinhai switch features a light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a lighter, more effortless typing experience—perfect for extended use during work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch has a significantly heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, catering to those who enjoy a firmer push while typing, contributing to a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Therefore, the Xinhai switch is the lighter option, while the Xinhai (Heavy) is the heavier choice. This distinction allows users to select a switch based on their desired typing experience, whether they favor a lighter touch or a more robust feel.

Travel distance

The travel distance of both the HMX Xinhai linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch is identical, measuring 3.4 mm. This means that when you press down on either switch, you will experience the same distance of movement from the top to the bottom. As a result, users can expect similar feedback and response from both switches, providing a uniform tactile experience regardless of which variant is used. Since their travel distances are equal, neither switch is shorter or longer than the other, ensuring that performance remains consistent across both options.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the Xinhai linear switch is characterized by its clacky nature, producing a sharp and snappy auditory feedback that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. This engaging sound makes it a popular choice for those who appreciate a more pronounced acoustic response while typing or gaming. In contrast, the sound qualities of the Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch are currently unknown. However, since both switches utilize a PA12 top housing and a POM stem, it is plausible that the heavier variant will provide a similar, if not slightly muted, acoustic experience due to its increased actuation force, potentially leading to a more subdued clacky sound.

In terms of feel, the Xinhai switch excels with its bouncy and creamy characteristics. The bouncy feedback provides a delightful spring-like sensation that adds a lively component to your typing, as if each key has a natural rebound. The creamy aspect enhances the overall experience with a smooth, buttery texture, allowing your fingers to glide effortlessly over the keys. Like the sound profile, the specifics of the Xinhai (Heavy) in terms of tactile feedback are not detailed, but one can expect that the increased actuation force will impact the feel. If the characteristics follow the trend of heavier switches, it may deliver a firmer resistance while retaining some level of smoothness.

In summary, the Xinhai linear switch stands out with its clacky sound and the delightful combination of bouncy and creamy tactile feedback. While the auditory and tactile details regarding the Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch remain mostly unspecified, the shared materials suggest a potential similarity in sound, albeit possibly less vibrant due to its heavier nature. Both switches are likely to cater to different preferences, with the standard version appealing to those who appreciate a lively and pronounced typing experience, while the heavier variant may attract users seeking more substantial resistance.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the HMX Xinhai linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal typing preference and physical comfort during extended use. If you favor a lighter feel and enjoy the lively, bouncy sensation that comes with the Xinhai's 45-gram actuation force, this switch will cater perfectly to a fast-paced typing style, especially for gaming or rapid data entry. Its clacky sound profile adds an engaging auditory feedback that can enhance the overall typing experience, making it ideal if you appreciate a bit of character in your keystrokes. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial resistance that may contribute to greater typing accuracy over long periods, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch with its 62.5-gram force would be a better fit. This heavier switch might be more suited for those who find themselves accidentally pressing keys or who enjoy a deliberate, more tactile engagement with each keystroke. In essence, the right choice depends on whether you lean towards a lightweight, playful typing experience or a more forceful, controlled approach to your mechanical keyboard usage.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Xinhai Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

HMX Xinhai (Heavy) Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more