HMX Deep Navy vs. Bsun Hutt
An in-depth look at the HMX Deep Navy and the Bsun Hutt switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Deep Navy and the Bsun Hutt offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences among typists and gamers alike. The HMX Deep Navy, a linear switch, stands out for its silky smooth keystrokes and rich, sharp sound profile thanks to its full nylon construction and Ly stem. Its seamless actuation makes it an ideal choice for those who favor uninterrupted typing and gaming sessions, as it eliminates any tactile feedback distractions. In contrast, the Bsun Hutt is a tactile switch renowned for its medium-heavy spring and prominent tactile bump, which provides an invigorating and sharp feedback on each keystroke. This makes it especially appealing to users who appreciate a more engaged typing experience and enjoy the satisfying “click” of affirmation with every press. While both switches have their merits—smoothness for the Deep Navy and tactile feedback for the Hutt—each caters to unique preferences and use cases. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
49g
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
POK
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
20.5mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Deep Navy and the Bsun Hutt demonstrate a clear distinction when it comes to their top housings, with the Deep Navy utilizing nylon and the Hutt opting for polycarbonate. Nylon, being a softer plastic, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile that is characterized by its sound-absorbing qualities. This results in a sound output that is rounder and duller, which can appeal to users who prefer a muted auditory experience. In contrast, the polycarbonate housing of the Bsun Hutt infuses a sharper, crisper sound profile into the mix. The stiffness of polycarbonate not only creates a clearer sound but also allows for a more resonant acoustic experience, making the switch feel more dynamic in its auditory feedback.
However, when we look at the bottom housing materials, both the Deep Navy and the Hutt utilize nylon, which brings a shared characteristic of depth and fullness to the typing experience. This dual use of nylon in the bottom housing emphasizes the significance of this material's sound-dampening properties, ensuring that both switches provide a consistent auditory experience beneath the key press. The bottom housing plays a crucial role in the overall feel and sound upon bottoming out, so users of both switches can expect a similar tactile and acoustic satisfaction from the use of nylon in this portion of the design.
Ultimately, the differences in sound profiles between the two switches can be attributed to their top housings. While the nylon bottom housing in both designs creates a common depth in sound and feel, the distinct qualities of the top housings lead to differentiated experiences. This means that the Bsun Hutt’s crisp sound output can blend with the richness provided by the nylon bottom, capitalizing on the strengths of both materials. In this way, even though the top and bottom housings are constructed from different materials in each switch type, a careful blend of design can offer users similarly satisfying results.
Weight
The HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Bsun Hutt tactile switch exhibit similar actuation forces, both requiring 40 grams of force to achieve a keystroke, making them equally suitable for users who prefer lighter switches for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, a distinction arises in their bottom out forces, with the Deep Navy's force measuring 45 grams compared to the Hutt's 49 grams. This makes the Deep Navy slightly lighter overall, appealing to those who favor a less strenuous typing experience. In contrast, the Hutt's higher bottom out force may cater to users seeking a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, while both switches offer light actuation forces, the difference in bottom out forces will influence the tactile experience and preference of users.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Bsun Hutt tactile switch, we see that the Deep Navy has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Hutt offers a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Although the difference is minimal, it reflects the varying preferences in keyboard feel; the Deep Navy caters to those who enjoy a deeper experience, while the Hutt may appeal more to users seeking a slightly snappier response. For gamers and those who prefer responsiveness, the shorter travel distance of the Hutt could be seen as a beneficial trait for quicker keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preference for key depth versus responsiveness, with the Deep Navy providing a more substantial feel and the Hutt offering a more immediate response.
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 Bsun Hutt has an MSRP of $6.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hutt for $5.39.
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 Deep Navy switch offers a rich and sharp auditory experience due to its full nylon construction. This gives it a distinctively clean and crisp sound profile, which enhances the immersive nature of typing. On the other hand, the Bsun Hutt switch produces a resonant sound characterized by a higher pitch and well-defined clarity, resulting in a balanced auditory experience. While both switches provide satisfying sounds, the Deep Navy tends to lean more towards a deep and smooth texture, whereas the Hutt focuses on a crisp resonance. Ultimately, each switch would create a unique auditory environment depending on the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Deep Navy switch is notably smooth and enjoyable, primarily due to its Ly stem design which ensures a fluid keystroke with minimal resistance. The Bsun Hutt switch, by contrast, shines with a multifaceted tactile feedback system. It features a medium-heavy spring that adds to the snappy and responsive nature of the switch, providing pronounced feedback and an invigorating typing sensation. The Hutt's tactile bump is particularly sharp, delivering a strong tactile response with every keypress, resulting in a distinctly engaging experience. While the Deep Navy focuses on smoothness, the Hutt offers more pronounced tactility, appealing to typists who appreciate extra feedback.
In conclusion, while the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Bsun Hutt tactile switch both cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel, they can deliver satisfying typing experiences in their own right. The Deep Navy excels in providing a rich, smooth sound profile combined with silky keystrokes, ideal for users who prefer a more linear feel. In contrast, the Hutt's resonant sound and sharper tactile feedback make it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a more responsive and engaging typing experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize smoothness or a rich tactile sensation in your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Bsun Hutt tactile switch will ultimately come down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you favor a smooth and serene typing experience with a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, the Deep Navy switch is an ideal choice, especially if you appreciate a rich sound profile that can enhance your auditory experience while typing. Its silky smoothness and full nylon construction create a delightful feel that many users enjoy for long hours of use, making it perfect for those who prioritize noise and tactile feedback over a pronounced bump. On the other hand, if you crave a more tactile typing sensation with a notable feedback and a slightly firmer actuation at 49 grams, then the Bsun Hutt switch may suit you better. Its medium-heavy spring, snappy response, and resonant sound provide an invigorating and immersive experience that can keep you engaged during intensive typing sessions or gaming. In essence, choose the Deep Navy for a smooth and quiet experience, while opting for the Hutt when you desire tactility and a responsive feel in your keystrokes.
Mentioned in this article
