HMX Deep Navy vs. Gazzew LT
An in-depth look at the HMX Deep Navy and the Gazzew LT switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, a common consideration is the balance between tactile feedback, auditory experience, and build quality. The HMX Deep Navy switch stands out for its rich, sharp sound profile, thanks to its full nylon construction coupled with the smooth Ly stem, making it ideal for those who appreciate a satisfying auditory response while typing. In contrast, the Gazzew LT switches captivate with their enticing lilac hue and distinctive "thocky" sound, which delivers a deep, resonant experience that many users find appealing. While both switches fall under the category of linear switches, they each offer unique attributes: the Deep Navy promotes a silky smooth feel, while the LT's design ensures a satisfying auditory symphony with every keystroke. These features may cater to different preferences in typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The HMX Deep Navy and the Gazzew LT switches showcase notable similarities and differences in their housing materials, both of which significantly influence their sound profiles and typing experiences. The Deep Navy employs a classic nylon material for both its top and bottom housings, renowned for its softer texture that effectively absorbs sound. This characteristic results in a deeper, fuller sound profile that many typists find desirable. In contrast, the Gazzew LT utilizes a proprietary blend known as "boba plastic" for both its top and bottom housings. This blend is crafted to provide a similarly rich and deep sound profile through its inherent softness, echoing the acoustic benefits seen with the nylon material of the Deep Navy.
Despite the similarities in sound attributes, the differences in housing materials between the two switches contribute to nuanced distinctions in performance. The nylon housing of the Deep Navy offers a classic approach, recognized for its reliability and consistent sound dampening. On the other hand, the Gazzew LT's proprietary plastic blend may introduce unique tonal qualities and tactile responses stemming from its specific formulation. While both switches utilize softer plastics, the behavior under actuation and the subtle variations in sound resonance will create a different experience; the boba plastic may produce a distinct yet harmonious sound signature when compared to the more established sound of nylon.
Overall, while both the HMX Deep Navy and Gazzew LT switches aim for a rich sound profile facilitated by softer plastic materials, the interplay between top and bottom housing characteristics results in unique auditory experiences. For users seeking consistency, the Deep Navy offers a more traditional experience rooted in nylon's properties, while the LT brings a modern twist with boba plastic, potentially offering a different feel and sound when bottoming out or releasing keys. The nuanced differences between the two materials ensure that while users may achieve similar sound profiles, the overall sensation and acoustics may vary, catering to preferences across a spectrum of typing styles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch, distinct differences emerge. The HMX Deep Navy has a notably light actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a softer feel during typing or gaming, allowing for extended use without fatigue. In contrast, the Gazzew LT linear switch features an unknown actuation force, but it possesses a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, positioning it towards a medium-heavy category. This switch is likely better suited for users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience and prefer a stronger push feel. Therefore, the HMX Deep Navy is lighter overall, while the Gazzew LT is heavier, catering to different preferences in the realm of keyboard switches. The similarities in bottom out forces are subtle, as they both provide a chance to experience different levels of feedback at maximum depression, but the overall weight and force requirements diverge significantly.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch, we find a discernible difference. The Deep Navy boasts a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the LT has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. This means that users who choose the Deep Navy will experience a heftier key press, potentially providing a more substantial tactile experience for those who prefer deeper depths. Conversely, the LT's 3.2 mm travel distance caters to gamers and others who favor quicker response times, making it suitable for fast-paced activities. Ultimately, the choice depends on individual preferences: those seeking a deeper keystroke may gravitate toward the HMX Deep Navy, while those prioritizing swift actuation could opt for the Gazzew LT.
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 Gazzew LT comes in at $6.50 per 10 switches.
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 switch is celebrated for its rich and sharp audio profile, providing a clear and crisp response with every keystroke. The full nylon construction contributes to this acoustic quality, allowing for a satisfying sound that users may find highly engaging. On the other hand, the Gazzew LT switch offers a unique auditory experience characterized by its deep, resonant thockiness. With a bassy nature, typing on the LT delivers a rich and satisfying deep thud, seemingly vibrating in a lower frequency range. Both switches produce distinctive sounds that may delight different users; however, the Deep Navy leans towards a sharper tone while the LT embraces a more rounded, bass-heavy sound.
When it comes to feel, the Deep Navy switch provides an exceptionally smooth typing experience due to its Ly stem design, which allows for an effortless glide with each key press. This silky feel can enhance comfort during long typing sessions, making them an appealing option for enthusiasts seeking a refined tactile experience. In contrast, the Gazzew LT switch also offers a seamless glide, which is consistent with its thocky auditory quality, providing pleasant feedback that many typists favor. Although descriptions of the exact feel of the Deep Navy are not available, it’s likely that both switches can deliver a satisfying tactile experience, albeit with potentially differing characteristics in the overall feedback during use.
In conclusion, both the HMX Deep Navy and Gazzew LT linear switches present unique auditory experiences that cater to varying preferences. With the Deep Navy emphasizing a clear and sharp sound, while the LT offers a deep, thocky resonance, typists can choose based on their desired auditory satisfaction. On the feel front, both switches promise smooth gliding action, though the specific tactile qualities may vary between them. These switches ultimately showcase how personal choice plays a significant role in the keyboard experience, and either switch can provide an enjoyable typing journey.
Conclusion
To wrap up, choosing between the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you find yourself favoring a lighter keystroke and appreciate a rich, sharp auditory experience, the Deep Navy switch would be an excellent choice, especially for tasks requiring quick, repetitive keystrokes or gaming, where a smooth and satisfying sound enhances the experience. Its lighter actuation force of 45 grams enables extended typing sessions without fatigue, making it ideal for those who type for long periods. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tangible feedback and enjoy the deeper, resonant sounds that these switches provide, the Gazzew LT is better suited for you. With a heavier actuation force of 65 grams, it offers a more deliberate typing experience that many find satisfying, particularly in typists who enjoy a thocky, bass-rich auditory profile. This makes the LT switch fantastic for writers and anyone who values a certain tactile feedback and sound signature with each keystroke. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you prioritize a smooth and light touch or a more grounded and sound-rich typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
