Bsun Cliff vs. HMX Twilight
An in-depth look at the Bsun Cliff and the HMX Twilight switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Cliff and the HMX Twilight present two distinct options that cater to different typing preferences and gaming experiences. The Bsun Cliff is praised for its medium tactility and crisp sound signature, making it a great choice for users who enjoy the tactile feedback of each keystroke, enhancing both typing accuracy and satisfaction. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight, with its extended 3.85mm travel distance, offers a linear feel that delivers a smoother typing experience and a quieter sound, ideal for those who prefer a more subtle keypress without sacrificing the clacky characteristics that HMX switches are known for. While the Cliff switch is perfect for those looking for tactile feedback in both typing and gaming scenarios, the Twilight caters to users seeking seamless key transitions and higher speed. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.85 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
Ly
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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials used in the Bsun Cliff and HMX Twilight switches, we find a stark contrast between their top housings. The Cliff features a polycarbonate top housing, celebrated for its clarity and resonance. This material's stiffness allows it to produce a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. The translucence of polycarbonate also makes it a favorable choice for RGB lighting, as the emitted light can showcase the brilliance of the switch. In comparison, the Twilight utilizes nylon for its top housing, known for its softer composition. This results in a deeper, fuller sound profile that absorbs sound, fostering a duller, rounder auditory experience. Consequently, while the Cliff is designed for those who prefer a bright and cutting sound, the Twilight caters to users seeking warmth and depth in their keystrokes.
Turning our attention to the bottom housings, both the Cliff and the Twilight employ nylon, ensuring a consistent auditory signature for the bottom of these switches. As a classic housing material, nylon delivers a fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound energy due to its softer properties. This mutual use of nylon in both switches’ bottom housings means that when typing, users will experience similar depth and richness in sound, regardless of the varying upper housings. Thus, even though the switches differ in the materials used for the top housing, their bottom housings provide a shared auditory foundation that highlights the robust characteristics inherent to nylon.
Ultimately, the differing materials for the top housing between the Bsun Cliff and HMX Twilight yield distinct sound profiles while their shared nylon bottom housing unifies their deeper acoustic quality. As such, individuals who choose the Cliff will appreciate its bright, clear tones, enhanced by its polycarbonate top, while those opting for the Twilight will revel in the warmth and richness fostered by its nylon top. However, the similarities in the bottom housing ensure that the overall typing experience retains a fullness, making each switch unique yet part of a broader acoustic family rooted in nylon’s classic qualities.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, it's evident that both switches are categorized as light but have notable differences in their force specifications. The Cliff features an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Twilight requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 42 grams and bottoms out at 50 grams. This means that the Cliff switch offers a lighter feel overall, making it potentially more suitable for users who prioritize longer typing sessions or extensive gaming without fatigue. In contrast, the Twilight provides a slightly firmer push, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Although both switches are on the lighter side, the Twilight’s stronger forces indicate a more pronounced tactile feedback, ideal for users seeking a bit more resistance. Overall, while both switches can facilitate comfortable use, the Bsun Cliff is the lighter option, whereas the HMX Twilight has a heavier actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Bsun Cliff tactile switch measures 3.6 mm, while the HMX Twilight linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.85 mm. This difference highlights that the Cliff switch offers a shorter actuation distance compared to the Twilight. For gamers or users who prefer quicker response times and a more snappy feel, the Bsun Cliff may be the more favorable choice; however, those who appreciate a more substantial press might lean towards the HMX Twilight for its deeper travel. In essence, while both switches cater to different preferences in tactile feedback and responsiveness, the Cliff's shorter travel distance could be considered more suitable for fast-paced use, whereas the Twilight caters to those seeking a rich, deeper actuation.
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 Twilight has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Twilight 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 Bsun Cliff tactile switch has a crisp sound signature, which tends to provide a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. This makes it an ideal choice for those who enjoy an auditory cue as they type. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight linear switch is characterized by a slightly quieter sound profile, thanks to its extended 3.85mm travel distance. While it maintains the signature clacky characteristics typical of HMX switches, it ultimately delivers a less pronounced auditory experience compared to the Cliff, catering to users who prefer a more subdued acoustic environment.
When considering the feel, the Cliff tactile switch features a medium tactility, imparting a noticeable bump that can enhance typing accuracy and provide a more engaging tactile experience. This makes the Cliff particularly appealing for typists who enjoy feedback that distinctly marks the actuation point. In contrast, the Twilight linear switch offers a smooth keystroke without any significant tactile bump, which translates to a fluid typing experience. Users who favor a seamless keypress without interruptions will likely gravitate towards the Twilight, as it emphasizes a gliding motion over tactile feedback.
In summary, choosing between the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences regarding sound and feel. The Cliff provides a crisp sound and medium tactility for those who appreciate both auditory feedback and tactile engagement, while the Twilight offers a quieter experience with a smooth, uninterrupted keypress suited for users who prefer linear switches. Each switch has its unique characteristics, which cater to different typing styles, so consider what qualities resonate most with your typing preferences to make the best choice.
Conclusion
To conclude, selecting between the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and use case. If you enjoy a tactile feedback when typing, accompanied by a crisp sound signature that provides a satisfying "click" with each keystroke, then the Cliff is likely your best bet. Its light 45-gram bottom-out force makes it a good option for those who prefer a switch that requires less effort to actuate, which can be advantageous for long typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, quieter experience that allows for an extended travel distance of 3.85mm, the Twilight linear switch would be a better choice. The slightly higher 50-gram bottom-out force offers a different feel, giving you more resistance while typing, which some users find helps with precision, especially in gaming. Ultimately, your choice should align with whether you prioritize tactile feedback and sound or fluidity and a quieter operation in your typing experience.
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