Gateron Glory Red vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the Gateron Glory Red and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Glory Red and HMX SU are two noteworthy options that cater to different preferences while both being linear switches. The Gateron Glory Red is celebrated for its lightweight feel, delivering a smooth keystroke and a pleasing travel distance, making it an excellent choice for users who prioritize a comfortable and responsive typing experience. In contrast, the HMX SU, with its full PA12 housing and T5 stem, offers a subtle yet relatively deep sound profile that can appeal to those who seek a more tactile auditory feedback without the clickiness. Both switches pave the way for enjoyable typing experiences, with the Glory Red catering to those who favor a lighter touch and effortless movement, while the HMX SU offers a slightly more robust feel. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
T5
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Glory Red and the HMX SU switches, it is notable that both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This similarity in materials ensures that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The choice of nylon is significant, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. As a result, both switches are designed to create a more rounded and muted auditory experience, which can be appealing for users looking for a quieter typing environment.
However, while the materials are the same, the overall performance in terms of feel and sound can still vary depending on additional factors such as stem design and assembly quality. The impact of the nylon housing on the sound profile will be felt in both the bottoming-out phase and when releasing the key. Users may notice that the nuances between the two switches might contribute to different tactile experiences, even with identical housing materials. As both switches employ the same nylon material, they may still deliver similar auditory qualities, resulting in a uniquely satisfying sound that enhances the typing experience.
Ultimately, both the Gateron Glory Red and the HMX SU switches leverage the classic advantages of nylon to create a distinct typing sound and feel. The shared use of nylon for both top and bottom housings means that, regardless of their specific designs, users can expect comparable acoustic results. This shared material characteristic could lead to similar feedback in terms of sound dampening during use, making either switch a sound investment for those who value a pleasant auditory typing experience without sacrificing the tactile feedback that defines mechanical switches.
Weight
Comparing the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch reveals some similarities and differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches feature an actuation force of 45 grams, which means users will experience a similar resistance when triggering a keystroke. This makes both switches suitable for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming, as the lighter actuation force can reduce fatigue. However, a key contrast lies in their bottom out forces; while the Gateron Glory Red does not have an available bottom out force, the HMX SU has a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is relatively light. This indicates that while both switches require the same effort to actuate, the HMX SU offers a slightly heavier feel once fully pressed down, contributing to a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer it. Ultimately, if you enjoy a consistent force throughout your keystrokes, the Glory Red is a good choice, but for those who appreciate a slightly heavier bottoming out sensation, the HMX SU may be more appealing.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch have identical travel distances, measuring 3.6 mm from the top to the bottom. This similarity means that users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and actuation when pressing down on these switches. Both switches allow for a smooth and consistent typing experience, as the distance you feel during key presses is the same. Thus, whether using the Glory Red or the HMX SU, you can anticipate comparable performance in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Glory Red has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glory Red for $4.19.
The HMX SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU 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 Gateron Glory Red linear switch is known for its pleasing travel distance and smooth keystroke, suggesting a relatively quiet operation that minimizes disruptive noise during use. Meanwhile, the HMX SU linear switch features a subtle and relatively deep sound profile, which could provide a more pronounced auditory feedback compared to the Glory Red. However, the perceived sound can greatly depend on other factors, including the type of keyboard and keycaps used, making it possible for users to achieve a similar auditory experience with both switches under the right conditions.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Glory Red delivers a smooth keystroke that enhances the overall typing experience, allowing for effortless actuation that many typists find enjoyable. In contrast, the HMX SU, equipped with a T5 stem, is designed to provide a distinct tactile journey, though specifics about its feel compared to the Glory Red are not detailed. Both switches, being linear, should inherently provide a similar lack of tactile resistance compared to clicky or tactile switches, but the unique characteristics of each may result in subtle differences in user experience.
In conclusion, while both the Gateron Glory Red and HMX SU linear switches cater to those seeking a smooth and enjoyable typing experience, their sound profiles and specific feel characteristics may appeal to different preferences. Users may find that while the Glory Red offers a softer sound, the SU provides a deeper auditory experience, and both promise smooth keystrokes. Ultimately, personal preference and the combination of the switches with a particular keyboard construction and keycaps will influence the overall satisfaction and performance for typists looking to find their ideal mechanical switch.
Conclusion
To conclude, when it comes to choosing between the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, your preferences and typing style will be key determinants. If you enjoy a very smooth keystroke with a lighter actuation and are looking for an effortless typing experience, the Gateron Glory Red is a great choice. It is particularly suited for those who want a switch that feels light and responsive, making it ideal for fast typists and gamers who require quick key presses. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly more pronounced feedback and a deeper sound profile while still maintaining a relatively light touch at a 50g bottom out force, the HMX SU might be more to your liking. The SU's PA12 housing contributes to its durability and sound characteristics, making it a great option for those who appreciate a richer audio experience in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on whether you prioritize a smooth and springy feel like the Glory Red or a more tactile experience with distinct acoustic qualities found in the HMX SU.
Mentioned in this article
