HMX Deep Navy vs. HMX Hibiscus
An in-depth look at the HMX Deep Navy and the HMX Hibiscus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the HMX Deep Navy and the HMX Hibiscus invites enthusiasts to consider their unique characteristics and overall typing experience. The Deep Navy is celebrated for its rich, sharp sound profile, crafted from full nylon for optimal durability and a silky smooth feel thanks to its Ly stem. This switch prioritizes a cohesive auditory and tactile experience, appealing to users who appreciate a clear and resonant feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the HMX Hibiscus offers an exceptional typing experience that is characterized by an ultra-light actuation force that is notably less than 80% of other switches, providing a satisfyingly clacky and poppy sound signature that many find alluring. While both switches are linear, catering to those who prefer smooth key presses without tactile bumps, the choice ultimately hinges on whether one values a richer sound profile or an ultra-smooth, effortless typing experience. 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
40g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
T3
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Deep Navy and HMX Hibiscus utilize identical housing materials, with both switches featuring nylon for their top and bottom housings. This commonality in materials translates to similar acoustic properties during use. Nylon, characterized as a classic switch housing material, is particularly effective due to its relative softness compared to harder plastics. This softness allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile as it absorbs sound, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience, which is consistent across both switch varieties. Therefore, users can anticipate akin sound characteristics when typing on either switch, offering a harmonious typing experience.
Both the Deep Navy and Hibiscus switches feature nylon for their top and bottom housings, which fortifies the notion that they will perform similarly in various typing scenarios. The nylon material effectively dampens vibrations during keystrokes, allowing for a consistent bottom-out sound and feel that is pleasant to users who favor a muted auditory response. With the consistent use of nylon, the differences in sound experienced during key release and bottom-out are minimized, reinforcing the shared audio profile between the two switch options. Thus, regardless of the aesthetic differences, the reliance on the same housing material ensures parallel auditory and tactile responses for users of both models.
While the HMX Deep Navy and HMX Hibiscus can be distinguished visually and thematically, they converge in their acoustic performance due to their identical nylon housings. This consistent use of nylon provides a predictable sensory experience, with users able to anticipate a similar typing feel and sound across both models. If plastic variations were to be introduced, the experiential outcomes would differ for the bottom-out feel and sound based on the housing materials utilized. In this case, however, the shared characteristics of the nylon construction ensure that both switches retain their expected sound profiles, resulting in an enjoyable and cohesive typing experience.
Weight
The HMX Deep Navy and HMX Hibiscus linear switches both exhibit light weights, but they differ slightly in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Deep Navy switch has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Hibiscus requires a slightly higher actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This means that the Deep Navy is the lighter option overall, making it potentially more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Hibiscus, with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, offers a more substantial feel for users who prefer a stronger push. Although both switches are on the lighter side, the differences in their actuation forces suggest a variation in typing experience—users of the Deep Navy may enjoy a more effortless keystroke, while those who choose the Hibiscus might appreciate the added resistance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch, we find that they differ slightly, with the Deep Navy having a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Hibiscus measures 3.5 mm. This makes the Hibiscus the shorter option and the Deep Navy the longer one. Given the slight difference, if you opt for the Hibiscus, you'll experience a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, which is often favored by gamers. Conversely, the Deep Navy’s longer travel might provide a more pronounced tactile feedback, appealing to those who prefer a deeper feel during use. Thus, your choice should reflect your personal preference for responsiveness versus depth in key press experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Deep Navy has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Deep Navy for $2.79.
The HMX Hibiscus has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hibiscus 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
In terms of sound, the HMX Deep Navy linear switch is characterized by a rich, sharp sound profile, thanks to its full nylon construction. This material produces a more refined auditory experience with each keystroke, ensuring that typing feels engaging without being overly intrusive. In contrast, the HMX Hibiscus switch delivers a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. This sound is indicative of its design and responsiveness, making typing a notable auditory experience. While both switches offer pleasing acoustics, the Deep Navy leans more toward a smooth and refined sound, whereas the Hibiscus brings a livelier and more pronounced auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Deep Navy switch is renowned for its silky smoothness on every keystroke, facilitated by its Ly stem, which provides a seamless typing experience. This smoothness contributes to a great deal of comfort during prolonged typing sessions, enhancing the overall enjoyment. In comparison, the HMX Hibiscus switch features an ultra-light actuation force, allowing for an exceptionally effortless typing experience. While the Hibiscus may provide a different kind of tactile perception with its distinct pop and clack, both switches prioritize smoothness and fluidity, although the emphasis differs slightly.
In summary, both the HMX Deep Navy and HMX Hibiscus linear switches offer unique characteristics that cater to varying preferences. The Deep Navy impresses with its rich sound profile and silky smooth feel, making it ideal for those who appreciate a more refined experience. Conversely, the Hibiscus shines with its satisfying auditory feedback and ultra-light actuation, offering a playful and lively typing environment. While both switches aim to deliver smoothness, they each provide distinct auditory and tactile experiences that can significantly enhance your mechanical keyboard journey. Ultimately, personal preference will guide you in choosing between the two, but both are excellent options for any newcomer to the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and the experience you seek. If you prioritize a rich sound profile and a silky smooth keystroke, the Deep Navy switch, with its lighter 45-gram bottom-out force, is likely the better option for you. This switch excels in providing a satisfying auditory experience, making it ideal for users who enjoy typing in a more acoustic environment and appreciate the tactile feedback of each press. On the other hand, if you’re looking for an incredibly smooth typing experience paired with a satisfying clack and crisp sound signature, then the HMX Hibiscus switch should be your go-to choice. While slightly heavier with a 48-gram bottom-out force, it offers an engaging auditory feedback that enhances your typing rhythm and enjoyment. So, whether you lean towards the Deep Navy for its rich sound and lighter actuation or the Hibiscus for its smoothness and poppy acoustics, each switch caters to distinct preferences that can significantly enhance your typing experience.
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