Dareu Holly vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Dareu Holly and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Dareu Holly and the HMX Xinhai. The Dareu Holly is a tactile switch with a medium 50g actuation force, known for its unique sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, offering a balanced and distinctive typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai is a linear switch crafted with a unique PA12 top housing for a softer acoustics profile and a POM stem for a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance. It embodies a perfect blend of subtle sophistication and precise performance. Both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, with the Holly being categorized as ['Chirpy', 'Clacky', 'Neutral'] and the Xinhai as ['Bouncy', 'Clacky', 'Creamy']. Each switch has its own strengths and characteristics that may suit different users, so it's essential to dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities to best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Dareu Holly and the HMX Xinhai utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches intended to be paired with RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the overall design. The similarities in their top housing material ensure that users can expect comparable acoustic and aesthetic experiences from both switches.
On the other hand, the Holly and the Xinhai differ in their choice of bottom housing material, with the Holly featuring a nylon bottom housing and the Xinhai employing the same. Nylon bottom housing material is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This characteristic leads to a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon housing. Despite their contrasting bottom housing materials, both the Holly and the Xinhai offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences in sound and feel.
The division of housing materials between the top and bottom of the switch impacts the overall typing experience for users. The qualities of the bottom housing material primarily influence the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing material has a more pronounced effect on the sound produced when releasing a key. By incorporating different housing materials for the top and bottom, the Dareu Holly and the HMX Xinhai offer a well-rounded typing experience that encompasses various sound profiles and tactile feedback for users to enjoy.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Holly tactile switch to the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is evident that the Holly requires a heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the lighter 37 grams needed for the Xinhai. This means that the Holly switch will provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Xinhai requires 45 grams, which is unavailable for the Holly switch. This suggests that the Xinhai may provide a more consistent and satisfying typing experience overall. The weight of a switch is an important factor to consider, as it can impact the typing experience and comfort level for the user. Some may prefer a lighter switch like the Xinhai for longer typing sessions, while others may opt for the Holly for a more pronounced tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Dareu Holly tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Holly's travel distance is longer than the Xinhai's, making it more suitable for those who prefer a deeper keypress feeling. On the other hand, the Xinhai's shorter travel distance might appeal to gamers or individuals looking for faster response times. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Holly being on the longer side and the Xinhai being slightly shorter. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for keypress depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Holly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Holly for $3.76.
The HMX Xinhai comes in at $3.50 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 Dareu Holly tactile switch offers a unique combination of chirpy and clacky elements, providing a balanced and distinctive typing experience. The sound of the Holly switch is characterized by a slightly squeaky and sharp tone, setting it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch produces a crisp, bright, and percussive clacky sound when pressed, thanks to its unique PA12 top housing and POM stem. Both switches provide an audible typing experience, with the Holly offering a chirpy touch and the Xinhai delivering a clear and defined clack.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Holly tactile switch does not have specific descriptors provided in the information, making it challenging to directly compare its tactile feel to the HMX Xinhai linear switch. However, the Xinhai switch is described as bouncy and creamy, offering a spring-like feedback sensation with a smooth and buttery typing experience. The bouncy feel of the Xinhai provides a lively feedback when pressing the keys, while the creamy sensation ensures a silky and effortless keystroke, enhancing the overall typing comfort.
Considering the information provided, newcomers seeking a tactile typing experience with a unique sound profile may prefer the Dareu Holly tactile switch, while those looking for a linear switch with a softer acoustics profile and a precise performance may opt for the HMX Xinhai linear switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style. If a user enjoys a chirpy and responsive typing experience, the Holly switch would be a suitable option. On the other hand, if someone prefers a clacky sound with a bouncy and creamy feel, the Xinhai switch would be a favorable choice. Both switches offer their own distinct qualities that cater to different typing preferences, providing users with a diverse selection to enhance their mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. The Holly's unique chirpy and clacky sound profile caters to those looking for a distinctive typing experience, while the Xinhai offers a softer acoustics profile with a crisp, higher-pitched resonance. If you prefer a switch with a bouncy or creamy feel, the Xinhai would be the better choice, whereas the Holly's feel is not specified. Ultimately, both switches have their strengths, so choose based on what sound and feel you prefer in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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