HMX Xinhai vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the HMX Xinhai and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
We are excited to showcase two unique linear mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Xinhai and the Outemu Yellow Silver. The Xinhai switch stands out with its PA12 top housing for softer acoustics and a POM stem for a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance, offering a blend of sophistication and performance. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switch by Outemu features a light actuation force and a neutral sound profile, making it ideal for gamers and typists seeking speediness and responsiveness. While the Xinhai is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', 'Creamy', the Yellow Silver is categorized as 'Neutral'. Both switches have their unique attributes that cater to different preferences. 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
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
The HMX Xinhai and the Outemu Yellow Silver both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. In terms of aesthetics and acoustics, both switches offer similar results with their polycarbonate top housings.
However, when it comes to the bottom housings, the HMX Xinhai utilizes a nylon material, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver also features a nylon bottom housing, providing similar qualities in terms of sound when typing. Both switches offer a unique typing experience due to the properties of the nylon material used in their bottom housings.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the HMX Xinhai and the Outemu Yellow Silver impact the sound and feel of the switches in different ways. The combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Xinhai splits the qualities of each material between the top and bottom of the switch, affecting both the bottom-out sound and the sound when releasing a key. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver also benefits from the qualities of both materials, resulting in a unique typing experience. Whether it's the sharper sound profile of polycarbonate or the fuller sound profile of nylon, both switches provide distinct qualities that cater to different preferences.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Xinhai linear switch are lighter compared to the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch. The Xinhai has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Yellow Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the Xinhai provides a lighter typing experience overall. Those who prefer a light and responsive feel may gravitate towards the Xinhai, as it allows for quicker keystrokes with less effort. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver offers a slightly heavier touch, providing a more substantial typing experience that some users may find more satisfying. Both switches offer a smooth linear feel, so regardless of the slight difference in force, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of smoothness and lack of tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preferences for typing force and key feel.
Travel distance
The HMX Xinhai linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Xinhai has a shorter travel distance compared to the Yellow Silver. The Xinhai's 3.4 mm distance falls in the category of shorter travel distances, which are preferred by gamers for quicker response times. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver's 4 mm distance offers a bit more depth, which some users may find more comfortable for typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
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
In terms of sound, the Xinhai linear switch offers a clacky experience with a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, characterized by a crisp, bright, and percussive tone. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch provides a neutral sound profile, suitable for both gamers and typists who prefer a balance between actuation force and sound level. Depending on the overall keyboard setup and keycaps used, the sound produced by each switch may vary slightly.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Xinhai linear switch is known for its bouncy and creamy typing experience, providing a spring-like feedback and a smooth, buttery sensation when typing. This unique combination offers a lively and comfortable typing experience, with each keystroke feeling effortless and satisfying. In contrast, information on the specific feel of the Outemu Yellow Silver switch is currently unavailable.
Taking into account the subjective qualities of the HMX Xinhai linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, it is evident that they offer different experiences to the user. While the Xinhai switch provides a clacky sound and a bouncy, creamy feel, suitable for those who appreciate a distinctive typing experience, the Yellow Silver switch offers a neutral sound profile and its specific feel is unknown. Depending on individual preferences and typing styles, both switches can offer satisfactory performance, with the Xinhai delivering a more unique and refined typing experience. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Xinhai linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, you should consider the differences in bottom out force, sound profile, and feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams, a unique PA12 top housing for softer acoustics, and a bouncy or creamy feel, then the Xinhai switch would be the optimal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 55 grams, a neutral sound profile, and a switch that is suitable for both gaming and typing due to its speediness and responsiveness, then the Yellow Silver switch would be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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