HMX Deep Navy vs. Durock Sea Glass

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, choosing the right one can greatly affect your typing experience, and two exceptional options worth considering are the HMX Deep Navy and the Durock Sea Glass, both linear switches. The Deep Navy switch stands out with its full nylon construction, offering a rich and sharp sound profile along with a silky smooth keystroke thanks to its Ly stem. This switch is a great option for those who prefer a more resonant auditory feedback while enjoying a seamless typing experience. In contrast, the Durock Sea Glass captivates with its unique pastel colors and is renowned for its distinct typing experience that combines a dryness and airiness, defying expectations despite its 62g bottom-out force. The light, frictionless nature of the Sea Glass makes it feel almost feather-like, ideal for typists who prioritize ultra-smooth key presses and an unparalleled light touch. Both switches have their unique appeals, with the Deep Navy delivering a richer sound and feel, while the Sea Glass focuses on a slight and airy typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.

By the numbers

HMX Deep Navy Linear

Durock Sea Glass Linear

$3.50

$2.79 per 10

$5.80

$4.87 per 10

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Housing materials

The HMX Deep Navy and the Durock Sea Glass both utilize nylon in their housing materials, although they differ significantly in their formulations. The Deep Navy features a traditional nylon top and bottom housing, which is celebrated for its ability to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. This characteristic stems from the material’s relatively softer composition, allowing it to absorb sound effectively. As a result, the sound produced when typing on these switches is rounder and less sharp, creating a pleasant auditory experience for users seeking a more subdued sound profile.

In contrast, the Durock Sea Glass employs a unique blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE for both its top and bottom housings. While it also benefits from the inherent qualities of nylon, the inclusion of UHMWPE alters the sound profile. Users can expect a brighter auditory experience, which, while not harsh, brings a pleasant liveliness to the typing experience. The impact of this blend creates sound dynamics that differ from the conventional nylon material used in Deep Navy; thus, when pressing the switches, users will notice the distinct tonal differences, even though both materials are rooted in nylon.

Despite these differences, if the materials had been identical, users would achieve similar typing experiences through a combination of the materials' inherent properties. In switches where both top and bottom housings are crafted from the same nylon material, the overall sound profile would lean towards the characteristics imparted by the nylon—deeper and rounder, promoting a certain auditory consistency. However, in this case, the HMX Deep Navy's pure nylon offers a classic feel, while the Durock Sea Glass’s innovative polymer blend provides a fresh take, demonstrating how variations in material composition can influence not just sound but overall typing aesthetics.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, the differences in actuation force and bottom out force highlight distinct preferences for users. The Deep Navy switch features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for users who prioritize comfort during extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Sea Glass switch presents a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a more substantial bottom out force of 62 grams, offering a firmer feel that some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Consequently, those looking for a softer push to facilitate endurance typing would gravitate towards the Deep Navy, while those who appreciate a stronger push and greater resistance might find the Sea Glass more appealing. Overall, the Deep Navy is the lighter option, whereas the Sea Glass is the heavier choice.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, the Deep Navy has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Sea Glass measures slightly longer at 3.8 mm. This indicates that the Sea Glass offers a deeper keypress, which some users might find more satisfying and substantial, especially those who prefer a hearty depth in their typing experience. On the other hand, the Deep Navy, with its shorter travel distance, is likely to provide a more responsive feel, making it potentially better suited for gamers or those who prioritize quick actions. Thus, if you prefer a more rapid key response, the HMX Deep Navy would be the better option, while the Durock Sea Glass would appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced key travel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Deep Navy switch offers a rich, sharp sound profile that enhances the auditory experience of typing, thanks to its full nylon construction. This design contributes to a satisfying auditory feedback that can make typists feel more engaged with their work. In contrast, the Durock Sea Glass switch presents a uniquely hollow sound signature that brings an airy quality to the typing experience. Its distinct dryness results in a different acoustical response, which can be perceived as lighter, although it still allows for a smooth audio experience. Both switches may produce variations in sound depending on the specific keyboard and keycap choices but they cater to different auditory preferences.

When it comes to feel, the Deep Navy switch is renowned for its smoothness, providing a pleasing typing experience with minimal resistance. This smoothness likely enhances the overall interaction you have with your keyboard during both typing and gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Durock Sea Glass switches excel in delivering a frictionless and easy-to-press experience, combining a light actuation force with a feathery touch. Their mild characteristics ensure a gentle typing experience, making them approachable and comfortable, especially for prolonged use. While both switches promise a smooth experience, the Sea Glass adds a layer of effortless lightness that might appeal to those who prefer an exceptionally light keypress.

Overall, the HMX Deep Navy and Durock Sea Glass linear switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel but share similarities in smoothness. The Deep Navy is ideal for those who appreciate a rich auditory feedback with a sharper tone, while the Sea Glass offers a distinctively hollow and airy resonance combined with a frictionless touch and lighter action. Each switch provides a pleasurable typing experience, making it easy for newcomers to find satisfaction whether they lean towards the vibrant characteristics of the Deep Navy or the ethereal qualities of the Sea Glass. The choice ultimately depends on personal preferences regarding sound and tactile responsiveness.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you favor a lighter actuation force and appreciate a pronounced auditory profile, the Deep Navy is an excellent choice. Its 45-gram bottom-out force allows for quick and effortless typing, complemented by a rich sound signature that enhances the overall experience. This makes it particularly appealing for those who engage in long typing sessions or enjoy the feedback of a sharp, satisfying sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial bottom-out force with a unique feel, the Sea Glass switch excels. With its 62-gram force and frictionless typing experience, it offers a weightless sensation that defies expectations, making it suitable for users who appreciate a smoother, airier typing feel and a distinct, hollow sound. Additionally, the aesthetic appeal of the pastel colors can be an added bonus if you want your keyboard to stand out. Ultimately, assess your priorities—be it sound, feel, or visual appeal—to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard journey.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Deep Navy Linear

$3.50

$2.79 per 10

Learn more

Durock Sea Glass Linear

$5.80

$4.87 per 10

Learn more