Gateron Aliaz vs. HMX Sunset Gleam
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the HMX Sunset Gleam switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Gateron Aliaz and the HMX Sunset Gleam can significantly influence your typing experience. The Gateron Aliaz, celebrated for its silent operation, is designed specifically for quiet environments like offices, allowing users to enjoy a muted yet tactile feel thanks to its medium-heavy actuation force. These switches deliver a pronounced feedback without the disruptive noise, making them ideal for those who value discretion in their typing. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam, also known as the Duck Duck switch, offers a linear experience characterized by a smooth keystroke and a satisfying auditory feedback, enhanced by HMX's exceptional factory lube. This switch is perfect for users who appreciate a fluid typing experience with a subtle yet noticeable clack at the top, ideal for both gaming and intensive typing sessions. Both switches cater to different needs and preferences: the Aliaz shines in quiet settings with its polished, muted touch, while the Sunset Gleam excels in providing a vibrant yet smooth response. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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 housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the HMX Sunset Gleam switches, it is evident that both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This choice leads to a superior auditory experience, characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiff nature of polycarbonate allows it to resonate more effectively, resulting in a clear and pronounced auditory feedback. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an aesthetically pleasing choice, especially for users who value RGB lighting in their keyboard setups, as it allows the light to shine through beautifully. Thus, regardless of minor variations in the switch's functionality, users can expect a similar sound profile from the top housing of both switches.
In contrast, the bottom housing materials diverge significantly, with the Aliaz utilizing polycarbonate while the Sunset Gleam employs nylon. This distinction contributes to noticeable differences in sound profiles and tactile experiences. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer material, maintains the sharper tonal qualities established by the top housing, leading to a consistent sound that retains clarity and resonance. Conversely, the nylon bottom housing delivers a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer composition, which absorbs more sound. This likely results in a rounder auditory experience when bottoming out on the Sunset Gleam. Consequently, the overall sound and feel of each switch is influenced by the combination of top and bottom housing materials, creating distinct typing experiences.
When pressing the switches, the qualities of the bottom housing are more pronounced, especially in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel. In the case of the Gateron Aliaz, the pairing of two polycarbonate housings ensures that users experience a uniform sharpness and clarity throughout their typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam, with its nylon bottom housing, emphasizes a different profile during the typing experience, favoring a warmer, more rounded sound. Hence, while both switches may share similar sound characteristics from the top housing, the choice of bottom housing leads to contrasting tactile responses, ultimately providing unique auditory experiences based on the user's preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Aliaz switch features a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam offers a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it ideal for those seeking prolonged typing sessions or gaming comfort without excessive strain. Consequently, the Gateron Aliaz is better suited for individuals who enjoy a firmer push, while the HMX Sunset Gleam will cater to those who favor a lighter touch. With these differences, users will find that the choice between the two switches primarily hinges on their personal preferences for force sensitivity in their typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, the Aliaz boasts a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sunset Gleam has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Aliaz the longer option, providing a more substantial keystroke experience that may appeal to users who prefer a hearty depth in their typing. In contrast, the shorter travel distance of the Sunset Gleam can offer a quicker response time, which is often preferred by gamers who appreciate rapid key presses. Ultimately, if you're seeking a more traditional and deeper keystroke, the Gateron Aliaz would be the better choice, while those aiming for speed and responsiveness might lean toward the HMX Sunset Gleam.
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 Sunset Gleam has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sunset Gleam for $2.99.
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 Gateron Aliaz switch stands out for its muted characteristics. Designed for quiet environments, the Aliaz minimizes the clacking noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, making it an ideal choice for office settings or shared spaces. This switch excels in providing a soft and subtle sound profile, contributing to an overall quieter typing experience. On the other hand, specific sound qualities of the HMX Sunset Gleam switch are not explicitly detailed, but it is known for its satisfying clack, likely resulting in a more pronounced acoustic feedback compared to the Aliaz. However, the final sound experience will depend on the board and keycap choices, which can influence the overall acoustic performance.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Aliaz is celebrated for its silky and polished characteristics that result in a smooth and refined typing experience. This switch offers a medium-heavy weight, enhancing tactile feedback without being overly noisy or distracting. The silky feel promotes easy key travel, while the polished finish minimizes friction, contributing to a seamless typing motion. Purportedly designed to provide a smooth typing experience, the HMX Sunset Gleam's feel isn't well-documented. Nevertheless, it promises a satisfying action due to its blend of materials and factory lube, suggesting it may also achieve a smooth response during use, albeit without the tactile feedback that Aliaz delivers.
In conclusion, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch present distinct qualities tailored to differing preferences. The Aliaz is ideal for those prioritizing a quiet and smooth typing experience with tactile feedback, making it suitable for environments where noise control is paramount. The Sunset Gleam offers potential for satisfying audio feedback and smoothness, although specific details on its feel are uncertain. Ultimately, your selection will depend on individual priorities—whether you lean towards a quieter, tactile experience or seek out a blend of smoothness and an auditory response.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, your specific typing environment and preferences will be key factors. The Aliaz, with its heavier bottom-out force of 75 grams, is ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced feedback with each keystroke, making it preferable in quieter settings like offices where a muted sound profile is essential. Its silky and polished feel provides a smooth typing experience, which is beneficial for long typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and enjoy the satisfying feedback of a linear switch, the HMX Sunset Gleam, with its bottom-out force of just 48 grams, offers a delightful blend of smoothness and a subtle top-out "clack." The factory lube enhances its feel, providing a unique typing experience that could be particularly satisfying for gamers or those who type with greater speed. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your typing habits and the environments in which you’ll be using your keyboard.
Mentioned in this article
