Cherry MX Speed Silver vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry MX Speed Silver to the HMX Xinhai mechanical keyboard switches, some distinct differences and similarities emerge. The MX Speed Silver excels in providing rapid response times with its linear action and low spring resistance, making it ideal for gamers seeking lightning-fast reactions. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch offers a unique acoustics profile with its PA12 top housing and POM stem combination, appealing to those who appreciate a crisp, higher-pitched sound. While the MX Speed Silver is textured, thocky, and low-pitched, the Xinhai switch is bouncy, clacky, and creamy. 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
30g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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 housing materials of the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the HMX Xinhai showcase differences in their sound profiles and aesthetics. The MX Speed Silver utilizes a nylon top housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Xinhai features a polycarbonate top housing, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to its stiffer plastic composition. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches incorporating RGB lighting, while the opaque nature of nylon offers a more classic look.
On the other hand, both the MX Speed Silver and the HMX Xinhai share a nylon bottom housing, which results in a consistent deep and full sound profile due to its softer plastic properties. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, contributing to a duller and rounder sound overall. Despite the difference in their top housing materials, the similarities in their bottom housing materials ensure a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile.
Ultimately, the choice between the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the HMX Xinhai comes down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetics. While the MX Speed Silver offers a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon top and bottom housings, the Xinhai provides a crisper and sharper sound with its polycarbonate top housing. Both switches maintain a consistent sound profile with their shared nylon bottom housing, ensuring a reliable typing experience. Whether one prefers a classic look or a more modern translucent design with RGB lighting, both switches deliver quality performance with distinct characteristics.
Weight
The Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 30 grams compared to the HMX Xinhai's actuation force of 37 grams, making the MX Speed Silver better suited for those who prefer a lighter touch. However, the HMX Xinhai has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams, whereas the bottom out force for the MX Speed Silver is unknown. This means that the HMX Xinhai provides a more consistent typing experience with a lighter touch throughout the keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference - whether one prefers a lighter actuation force or a lighter bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either switch, you will experience a similar amount of travel from the top to the bottom. This allows for quick and precise keystrokes, making both switches ideal for fast-paced gaming or typing. Since they have the same travel distance, users can expect consistent and reliable performance from both switches. Whether you choose the Cherry MX Speed Silver or the HMX Xinhai linear switch, you can rely on a smooth and efficient typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Speed Silver 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 Speed Silver 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 Speed Silver switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched characteristics, providing a deep and satisfying noise when pressed. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai switch offers a clacky sound profile, with sharp and snappy tones for a crisp and bright auditory experience. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing or gaming experience, depending on personal preference and the setup of the keyboard.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is noted for its textured nature, providing a tactile feedback that some users may find satisfying. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai switch offers a bouncy and creamy feel, with a spring-like sensation and a smooth, lubricated typing experience. While the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch may offer a bit of friction when pressed, the HMX Xinhai switch provides a more elastic and silky feel, allowing for effortless keystrokes.
Overall, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is ideal for those looking for a fast and responsive linear switch with a thocky sound and textured feel. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai switch caters to individuals who prefer a clacky sound profile and a bouncy, creamy typing sensation. Both switches have their unique qualities that can enhance the typing or gaming experience, and ultimately, the choice between them will depend on individual preferences and needs. Additionally, it's important to consider other factors such as keycaps and keyboard construction, as they can also impact the overall sound and feel of the switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a keyboard switch that offers lightning-fast response times and is perfect for gaming where speed is crucial, the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch is the way to go. Its low spring resistance and linear action make it ideal for quick key presses and maximum speed. On the other hand, if you are seeking a switch with a softer acoustics profile and a unique, higher-pitched resonance, the HMX Xinhai linear switch is the perfect choice. Its blend of subtle sophistication and precise performance sets it apart. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize speed and rapid response or a more nuanced sound profile and tactile feel in your keyboard switches.
Mentioned in this article
