Bsun Cliff vs. HMX Deep Navy

Overview

When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Cliff and the HMX Deep Navy offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Cliff is a tactile switch, renowned for its medium tactility and crisp sound signature, providing users with satisfying feedback during typing while keeping an engaging auditory experience. In contrast, the HMX Deep Navy is a linear switch that immerses users in a smooth and rich sound profile, thanks to its full nylon construction and Ly stem design. Those who appreciate a tactile response during typographic tasks may lean towards the Cliff for its feedback, whereas users who prefer a seamless and quieter typing experience might find the Deep Navy more appealing. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.

By the numbers

Bsun Cliff Tactile

HMX Deep Navy Linear

$2.75

$2.19 per 10

$3.50

$2.79 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Cliff and the HMX Deep Navy, it becomes evident that the choices of polycarbonate for the Cliff's top housing and nylon for the Deep Navy's top housing contribute to distinct sound profiles. The Bsun Cliff's polycarbonate top housing is designed to create a sharper and crisper sound, resulting from the material's stiffness and ability to resonate clearly. This characteristic enables a more impactful sound for the act of releasing a key, particularly beneficial for users who prioritize auditory feedback in their typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Deep Navy's nylon top housing leans towards producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, with its softer plastic absorbing more sound. This leads to a more muted and rounded auditory experience, which may appeal to those who prefer a quieter typing environment.

However, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which serves to create a similar depth in the sound profile. The presence of nylon in both cases means that regardless of the contrast at the top housing level, users can expect a consistent, deep, and full sound when bottoming out their keys. This shared material helps to balance the differences brought by their top housings. In situations where both the Cliff and Deep Navy may be used, users will likely find that the nylon in the bottom housing holds a significant influence over the overall sound and feel of the switch, echoing similar qualities across both models.

Ultimately, the differing top housing materials of the Bsun Cliff and the HMX Deep Navy provide a layered sound experience, blending the crispness of polycarbonate with the soft absorption qualities of nylon. While the Cliff's design is aimed at those seeking a more pronounced sound, the Deep Navy caters to users who value a softer and fuller auditory experience. By incorporating nylon in the lower housing, both switches manage to create a cohesive sound environment that enhances their respective top housing characteristics. Therefore, while there are notable contrasts between the two models in terms of material choices, their shared elements lead to complementary outcomes in performance.

Weight

When comparing the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the HMX Deep Navy linear switch, both exhibit a relatively similar bottom out force of 45 grams, which indicates that users will experience the same resistance when pressing the switches all the way down. However, in terms of actuation force, the Cliff switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Deep Navy's 40 grams. This makes the Cliff more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for lengthy typing sessions or extended gaming, as it requires less effort to register a keystroke. In contrast, the Deep Navy, with its heavier actuation force, will provide a more substantial typing experience for users who appreciate a firmer feedback with each key press. Overall, while both switches offer a light overall feel, the Cliff's lighter actuation force may appeal more to those seeking comfort during prolonged use.

Travel distance

Both the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the HMX Deep Navy linear switch have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, meaning they travel the same distance from the top to the bottom when pressed. Consequently, users can expect a similar feel and responsiveness when typing or gaming with either switch, as the equal travel distance ensures a consistent key press experience. Thus, neither switch can be categorized as shorter or longer since they provide identical travel characteristics.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Bsun Cliff tactile switch produces a crisp sound signature that aligns well with its medium tactility, offering a satisfying auditory feedback that can enhance the typing experience. This sound may be influenced by the keyboard construction and the keycap material used. On the other hand, the HMX Deep Navy linear switch boasts a rich, sharp sound profile, attributed to its full nylon construction. The Deep Navy’s sound is smooth and refined, which helps create a quiet yet responsive environment. Both switches have distinct audio characteristics that contribute to their overall user experience, but the Cliff's more pronounced tactile sound contrasts with the Deep Navy's smooth auditory delivery.

When it comes to feel, the Cliff tactile switch offers a noticeable bump that allows users to easily identify actuation, providing a more engaging typing experience. Its medium tactility strikes a balance between being pronounced enough to feel satisfying without being overly disruptive. Meanwhile, the Deep Navy linear switch is designed for silky smoothness with every keystroke, making it ideal for those who prefer an uninterrupted finger glide across the keys. The absence of tactile feedback in the Deep Navy results in a consistent and fluid keystroke but may lack the engaging sensation that tactile enthusiasts might seek.

In summary, while both the Bsun Cliff and HMX Deep Navy switches offer unique audio and tactile experiences, their differences cater to varying preferences among typists. The Cliff excels in delivering a crisp sound and engaging tactile feedback, while the Deep Navy focuses on providing a smooth, quiet experience. Depending on your personal preference for sound and feel, you’ll find satisfaction in either switch or achieve a similar typing experience with other options that share these characteristics.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the HMX Deep Navy linear switch, your choice should primarily revolve around your typing preferences and the overall experience you want from your mechanical keyboard. If you appreciate a tactile bump that provides feedback with each keystroke, along with a crisp sound that can enhance your typing experience, the Cliff is the way to go. It's particularly suited for typists who prefer a bit of a sensory signal with each press without being overwhelming. On the other hand, if you're after a smoother and quieter typing experience, the Deep Navy linear switch might be more your style. The silky feel and rich, sharp sound profile of these switches cater beautifully to gamers or those who favor continuous motion over tactile feedback. Ultimately, your selection should align with whether you value the tactile feedback and sound of the Cliff or the smooth, immersive experience of the Deep Navy, ensuring your keyboard meets your personal preferences and enhances your typing or gaming sessions.

Mentioned in this article

Bsun Cliff Tactile

$2.75

$2.19 per 10

Learn more

HMX Deep Navy Linear

$3.50

$2.79 per 10

Learn more