Bsun Cliff vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the Bsun Cliff and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, understanding the nuances between options like the Bsun Cliff and the HMX SU can greatly enhance your typing experience. The Bsun Cliff, a tactile switch, offers a medium level of tactility coupled with a crisp sound signature that many users find satisfying and engaging, making it a great choice for typists who appreciate feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the HMX SU, classified as a linear switch, provides a smooth and uninterrupted keypress experience, thanks in part to its full PA12 housing and T5 stem, along with a subtle yet relatively deep sound profile that can appeal to gamers and those who prefer a quieter workspace. Each switch has its merits depending on your preferences for feedback and sound, making the choice largely personal. 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
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
T5
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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 Bsun Cliff and the HMX SU switches showcase distinct characteristics that play a significant role in the overall sound profile produced by each switch. The Cliff features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffness and translucency. These properties contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for users who enjoy a more defined auditory experience, particularly when utilizing RGB lighting. In contrast, the HMX SU employs a nylon top housing, a classic choice that tends to produce a deeper, fuller sound profile due to nylon’s softer nature, which absorbs more sound. This fundamental difference in top housing material leads to contrasting auditory feedback when actuating the switches.
Examining the bottom housings of both switches reveals some similarities. Both the Bsun Cliff and the HMX SU utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which enhances the overall acoustic experience by creating a more rounded and duller sound profile. Since the bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, users can expect a consistent auditory experience with deeper tones regardless of the switch they choose. This shared nylon material in the bottom housing and its inherent properties offers a fairly uniform tactile response to users—a deeper thump when keys are bottomed out—although the top housing will dictate the initial sound and sensation experienced upon key release.
In summary, while the Bsun Cliff employs a polycarbonate top housing that promotes a crisp and bright sound, the HMX SU's nylon top housing fosters a deeper and mellower auditory profile. However, both switches are united by their nylon bottom housing, ensuring that users experience a consistent, rounded sound when the keys are fully pressed down. Ultimately, the differing top housing materials will lead to varied auditory experiences based on user preference, while the shared bottom housing serves to anchor their tactile and acoustic performance, delivering a satisfying typing experience in both cases.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the HMX SU linear switch, both switches exhibit relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, though they differ slightly in specifications. The Bsun Cliff features an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it the lighter option overall. In contrast, the HMX SU has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is slightly heavier. Therefore, users who prefer a lighter typing experience, conducive for long periods of use during work or gaming, may gravitate towards the Cliff switch. Conversely, those who favor a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience should consider the SU switch. While both switches are still categorized as light, the Cliff provides a more feather-light touch compared to the slightly firmer SU.
Travel distance
Both the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the HMX SU linear switch feature an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that users can expect a similar tactile feedback and actuation feel when pressing either switch. With the same travel distance, both switches will provide a comparable typing experience, making them equally suitable for users seeking a balanced performance in their keyboard. Since their travel distances are the same, those looking for a switch with specific characteristics might want to explore additional factors such as actuation force and overall feel to distinguish between the two.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Cliff has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cliff for $2.19.
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
When considering the sound profile of the Bsun Cliff tactile switch, it is characterized by a crisp sound signature that is both satisfying and pronounced. This auditory feedback adds an engaging dimension to typing, making it well-suited for those who appreciate a more prominent acoustic response. On the other hand, the HMX SU linear switch presents a subtly deeper sound, courtesy of its PA12 housing and T5 stem design. While the SU's sound is less pronounced compared to the Cliff, it offers a smooth, deep resonance that many users find pleasing. However, it is essential to note that the overall sound experience can vary based on the choice of keyboard and keycap materials, potentially leading to similarities in the auditory experience between these two switches.
In terms of feel, the Bsun Cliff tactile switch offers a medium level of tactility that provides a noticeable bump during keypresses, giving users clear feedback that can enhance typing accuracy and satisfaction. This tactile response is often appreciated by typists and gamers alike, who enjoy a little extra "crunch" with each keystroke. Conversely, the HMX SU linear switch is engineered to deliver a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile bump. This makes it an excellent choice for those who prefer an uninterrupted typing experience, characterized by fluidity and ease of actuation, typically favored in rapid typing or gaming scenarios. While both switches cater to different preferences, their unique feels can provide a satisfying typing experience tailored to individual tastes.
In summary, the Bsun Cliff and HMX SU switches present distinct yet equally enjoyable characteristics. The Cliff stands out with its crisp sound and medium tactility, appealing to users who enjoy tactile feedback and an engaged auditory experience. Meanwhile, the SU offers a smoother, deeper sound and a linear feel that many gamers and typists prefer for uninterrupted performance. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will hinge on your personal preferences for sound and feel, both of which can contribute to an enriching mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, your choice between the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the HMX SU linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the experience you wish to achieve. If you appreciate a tactile response when typing and enjoy a medium level of tactility coupled with a crisp sound signature, the Bsun Cliff would be an excellent fit. It's particularly suited for those who want feedback without being overly aggressive; the 45-gram actuation force is light enough to encourage extended typing sessions without fatigue. Conversely, if you prefer a smoother, uninterrupted keypress experience, the HMX SU linear switch is the way to go. With a slightly heavier bottom out force of 50 grams, it offers a subtle yet deep sound profile, which can enhance the overall typing satisfaction while keeping noise levels manageable, ideal for both work environments and gaming. Ultimately, your decision should align with whether you prioritize tactile feedback and sound or a smoother, linear feel that allows for rapid key presses.
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