Cherry MX Red vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Red and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up for comparison are the Cherry MX Red and the HMX Xinhai. The MX Red is a classic Cherry switch known for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, offering a robust typing experience that combines responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch stands out with its unique PA12 top housing for a softer acoustics profile and a POM stem for a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance. While the MX Red is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', the Xinhai is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', 'Creamy'. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference, but 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
45g
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
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
pom
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
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
The Cherry MX Red and HMX Xinhai have contrasting top housing materials, with the MX Red featuring a softer nylon material that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile. In comparison, the Xinhai utilizes a stiffer polycarbonate material that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The polycarbonate material also offers translucency, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Despite the differences in sound profiles, both materials are considered classic switch housing options that contribute to the overall typing experience.
On the other hand, the bottom housing materials of the MX Red and HMX Xinhai are both made of nylon, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a similar dull and round sound profile for both switches when it comes to bottom-out sounds and feel. While the bottom housing material may play a significant role in the typing experience, the top housing material has more of an impact on the sound produced when releasing a key, highlighting the importance of both housing materials in creating a well-rounded typing experience.
Overall, the choice between the Cherry MX Red and HMX Xinhai housing materials depends on the desired sound profile and typing feel. The nylon top housing of the MX Red offers a softer and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Xinhai provides a sharper and clearer sound. Both switches utilize nylon bottom housing, ensuring a consistent deep and full sound profile. Understanding the impact of housing materials on sound production can help users make an informed decision based on their personal preferences and typing needs.
Weight
The Cherry MX Red linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the HMX Xinhai linear switch, which has an actuation force of 37 grams. This means that the Xinhai switch requires less force to register a keystroke, making it lighter in feel. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Xinhai switch has a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Cherry MX Red's bottom out force is unknown. This indicates that the Xinhai switch provides a consistent force required throughout the keystroke process, giving it a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a heavier push feel. Ultimately, the lighter actuation force of the Xinhai switch may be more suitable for users who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions, while the heavier bottom out force of the Xinhai switch may be preferred by those who enjoy a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is clear that the Xinhai has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the MX Red's 4 mm. The MX Red is the longer of the two switches. For those who prefer a quicker response time, the Xinhai may be the better choice due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with more depth and feedback, the MX Red may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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
When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Red switch provides a thocky and low-pitched typing experience, offering a deep and satisfying sound with a more bass-heavy tone. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai switch delivers a clacky and crisp sound profile, characterized by a sharp and snappy resonance. Depending on your board and keycap choices, each switch can offer a unique auditory experience tailored to your preferences.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Red switch is described as having a textured feel that may provide a slight friction when pressed, offering a tactile feedback to the user. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai switch offers a bouncy and creamy sensation, providing a spring-like rebound and a smooth, buttery typing experience. Choosing between these switches will ultimately depend on whether you prefer a textured feedback or a more elastic and smooth typing feel.
Overall, both the Cherry MX Red and HMX Xinhai switches offer distinct qualities in sound and feel that cater to different preferences. While the MX Red switch leans towards a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound with a low-pitched tone, the Xinhai switch presents a softer acoustics profile and a crisp, higher-pitched resonance. However, if you're looking for a similar experience in either switch, considering factors such as your choice of board and keycaps will allow you to achieve comparable results in both sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, the Cherry MX Red would be a good choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a switch with a softer acoustics profile and distinctively crisp resonance, the HMX Xinhai linear switch might be more suitable for your typing preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a robust typing experience with a deeper sound or a more subtle sophistication with precise performance. Consider the sound and feel characteristics of each switch to determine which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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