Gateron Aliaz vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Aliaz and the HMX SU, each catering to different user preferences and environments. The Gateron Aliaz is specifically designed for quiet spaces like offices, boasting a silent operation that minimizes distractions while providing a medium-heavy weight for a satisfying typing experience. Its tactile feedback is ideal for those who appreciate a well-defined keystroke without the noise, making it a fitting choice for users who value both discretion and performance. In contrast, the HMX SU is characterized by its full PA12 housing and T5 stem, which contribute to a subtle yet deep sound profile that appeals to linear switch enthusiasts. This switch offers a smooth and uninterrupted typing experience, perfect for gamers and typists who prefer fluid keystrokes without tactile bumps. While both switches have distinct advantages—one prioritizing a quiet but tactile feel and the other a linear and fluid response—let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T5
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz and HMX SU switches, one of the most significant differences lies in their housing materials, which profoundly affect their sound profiles and overall performance. The Gateron Aliaz features polycarbonate housings for both the top and bottom, resulting in a higher-pitched, crisp sound. This is attributed to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which not only enhances resonance but also makes the switch highly suitable for applications involving RGB lighting, given its translucency. On the other hand, the HMX SU employs nylon for its housings, both top and bottom, which lends a deeper, fuller sound characteristic due to nylon's softer properties. This softer plastic dampens vibrations, creating a duller, rounder acoustic profile.
The impact of these housing materials becomes even more pronounced when considering how they function together in a switch. In the Gateron Aliaz, the uniform use of polycarbonate means that both the bottom-out sound and the release sound are influenced by the same material, leading to a cohesive auditory experience. The consistency in the sound profile makes it easier for users to predict and enjoy a sharper feedback during typing. Conversely, the HMX SU, with its nylon housing, presents a duality where the mix of deeper sound from the bottom and the frequency response from the top creates a distinct auditory signature. This divergence affords the HMX SU a unique sound experience, appealing to users who may prefer a more muted auditory feedback when typing.
Despite the differences in sound profiles due to the distinct materials used, both the Aliaz and HMX SU can ultimately deliver satisfying typing experiences, though they cater to different preferences. With polycarbonate dominating in the Aliaz and providing a bright, resonant feedback, and nylon offering a softer, fuller sound in the HMX SU, users can explore two contrasting yet rich auditory landscapes. If one were to experiment with housing combinations or try out both types of switches, the contrasting characteristics would provide insights into personal preferences for sound and feel, making both switch designs appealing for different user needs.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch to the HMX SU linear switch, there is a notable difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Aliaz features a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, making it more substantial for users who prefer a stronger push feel while typing. In contrast, the HMX SU is significantly lighter, boasting an actuation force of only 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This lighter weight can provide an easier typing experience, ideal for long periods of use, such as during extensive work sessions or gaming. As such, users seeking a robust typing experience would likely gravitate towards the heavier Aliaz, while those looking for a more effortless keystroke would prefer the HMX SU. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will largely depend on personal preference regarding weight and typing feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the HMX SU linear switch, a notable difference emerges. The Aliaz features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option, while the HMX SU has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This distinction may influence the feel and responsiveness of each switch. Users who lean toward faster response times and a more immediate feel might prefer the HMX SU, given its shorter travel distance which aligns with the current trend favoring quicker key presses. Conversely, those who appreciate a more substantial depth and tactile feedback might gravitate towards the Gateron Aliaz, allowing for a more pronounced tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding key travel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The HMX SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU for $3.29.
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 Gateron Aliaz switches excel in providing a muted profile that significantly reduces the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboard switches. This makes them an ideal choice for quiet environments like offices, where the typing sounds can be less disruptive to others. On the other hand, the HMX SU linear switch is characterized by its subtle and relatively deep sound, courtesy of its full PA12 housing and T5 stem. Although specific descriptors for the sound of the SU are not provided, the mention of a deep profile suggests that while it may not be as quiet as the Aliaz, it still maintains a pleasant auditory quality, making both switches suitable for different preferences.
Regarding the feel of the switches, the Aliaz offers a remarkable silky and polished typing experience. The silky nature of the switch enhances the smoothness of key presses, minimizing resistance, while the polished finish allows for smooth key travel, making each keystroke feel refined and effortless. In contrast, specific details about the feel of the HMX SU linear switch are not readily available, leaving a gap in understanding how it compares in terms of tactile feedback. Generally, linear switches are known for their smooth actuation without any tactile bump, which could suggest a more uniform feel compared to the tactile characteristics of the Aliaz.
In summary, while the Gateron Aliaz switches are designed for quiet environments and provide a satisfying and smooth typing experience, the HMX SU linear switch offers a subtle sound quality that may appeal to users who prioritize less disruptive auditory feedback. The Aliaz's silky feel and polished keypress stand out, whereas the SU's tactile qualities remain less defined. Choosing between the two will ultimately depend on personal preference regarding sound and the detailed feel one seeks in a mechanical keyboard. Both switches cater to users looking for a refined and enjoyable typing experience, albeit with different auditory and tactile qualities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the choice between Gateron Aliaz tactile switches and HMX SU linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you work in a quiet environment, such as an office, and prioritize a more substantial tactile feedback along with minimal noise, the Aliaz switches are a fantastic option. Their heavier bottom-out force of 75 grams provides a pronounced feel that many typists appreciate, while their silent design ensures that you won't disrupt those around you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter and smoother typing experience, especially for gaming or rapid typing, the HMX SU linear switches may be more suitable for you. With a lighter bottom-out force of 50 grams, these switches allow for faster keystrokes and a subtle, deep sound profile that can enhance your overall experience without being intrusive. Ultimately, whether you lean towards the tactile satisfaction of the Aliaz or the effortless glide of the SU, both switches offer unique attributes that cater to different typing styles and environments.
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