Gateron Glory Yellow vs. HMX Gravel
An in-depth look at the Gateron Glory Yellow and the HMX Gravel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often weigh their options between different models to find the perfect fit for their typing preferences. The Gateron Glory Yellow and HMX Gravel switches are two popular linear options that offer distinct yet appealing experiences. The Glory Yellow switch stands out with its heavier actuation force, providing a smooth keystroke and a satisfying travel distance that many users find leads to a more deliberate typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Gravel switch caters to those who prefer a lighter touch, delivering a refined and effortless typing feel that many appreciate for rapid, repetitive tasks or gaming. Both switches promise a smooth and enjoyable experience but cater to different styles and preferences. 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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
15mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Gateron Glory Yellow and HMX Gravel switches, a notable distinction arises in their choice of top housing materials. The Glory Yellow utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to produce a deeper, fuller sound profile. This is primarily due to nylon's softer texture, allowing it to absorb sound effectively, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. Conversely, the HMX Gravel employs a polycarbonate top housing that generates a sharper and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more resonant sound, giving the Gravel a brighter character. Aesthetically, the polycarbonate's translucency enhances its appeal for users who utilize RGB lighting, providing a vibrant showcase for illumination.
In terms of bottom housing, both the Glory Yellow and HMX Gravel switches share a commonality, as they both feature nylon materials. This similarity in bottom housing translates to a consistent sound profile that is deeper and rounded due to nylon's sound-absorbing qualities. As a result, while the top housings create distinct auditory experiences—one that is rich and muffled with the Glory Yellow and the other that is clear and sharp with the Gravel—the common nylon bottom housing mitigates some of the differences, ensuring that both switches offer a satisfying tactile and audible bottom-out sound.
Ultimately, the impact on sound and feel when pressing these switches is influenced by the combination of top and bottom housing materials. In the case of the Gateron Glory Yellow, the nylon top emphasizes a softer auditory experience, whereas the polycarbonate top of the HMX Gravel enhances clarity. However, when it comes to the bottom-out feel, both switches will share similar characteristics due to their nylon bottom housings, ensuring that users experience the benefits of the sound-absorbing properties across both models. Thus, even amidst their material differences, the overall user experience regarding sound and tactile feedback diverges primarily based on the top housing while maintaining a certain level of consistency through the shared nylon bottom.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the HMX Gravel linear switch, notable differences arise in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Glory Yellow requires an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Gravel is lighter at 45 grams. This indicates that users might find the Gravel more comfortable for extended typing sessions, as its lower actuation force can lead to less finger fatigue. However, the bottom out force for the Glory Yellow is unknown, leaving us without a point of comparison for that particular aspect. In contrast, the Gravel has a defined bottom out force of 50 grams, which aligns with the Glory Yellow's actuation force but makes the Gravel a suitable choice for those who prefer a light yet tangible experience. Overall, while the Glory Yellow offers a heavier actuation feel, the Gravel is the lighter and more accessible choice for users seeking a more effortless keystroke action.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the HMX Gravel linear switch, the Glory Yellow offers a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gravel has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Glory Yellow the longer option, providing a more substantial depth that some users might find more satisfying, while the Gravel's shorter travel distance caters to those who prioritize responsive key presses, such as gamers. Despite both switches being linear, their differing travel distances cater to varying preferences: users who enjoy a deeper feel may lean towards the Glory Yellow, while those who like quicker actuation might prefer the Gravel. Therefore, depending on your comfort and efficiency needs, the choice between the two will significantly impact your typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Glory Yellow 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 Yellow for $4.19.
The HMX Gravel has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gravel 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 Gateron Glory Yellow switch produces a noticeable but subdued acoustic profile that contributes to a pleasant typing ambience without being overly loud. The HMX Gravel switch, while also designed to be smooth, has a softer sound signature, making it ideal for environments where noise levels need to be kept at a minimum. Both switches can vary in sound depending on the keyboard case and keycap material you choose, allowing users to fine-tune their auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Glory Yellow switch is recognized for its heavier actuation, providing a more substantial keystroke that offers satisfying feedback with every press. This makes it more suitable for those who prefer a tactile presence in their typing experience. Conversely, the HMX Gravel switch is characterized by its medium-light actuation force, leading to a responsive and effortless typing experience that feels incredibly smooth. This makes it an excellent choice for rapid typing and prolonged use without fatigue.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Glory Yellow and HMX Gravel linear switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Glory Yellow offers a heavier and more feedback-rich experience, while the Gravel provides a lighter and exceptionally smooth typing sensation. Overall, if you prioritize a more tactile response, the Glory Yellow may suit you better, whereas the Gravel could be the ideal choice for those who appreciate a lighter touch and refined smoothness. Depending on personal preferences, either switch can deliver a fulfilling typing experience, allowing users to find joy in their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the HMX Gravel linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you're someone who enjoys a smooth keystroke with a longer travel distance and desires a heavier switch feel, the Gateron Glory Yellow would be ideal for you. This switch excels in providing a gratifying typing experience, making it perfect for tasks that require prolonged typing sessions where comfort is key. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter and more responsive feel while typing, the HMX Gravel switch is the better choice. With its medium-light actuation force, it allows for swift key presses, making it an excellent option for fast-paced gaming or rapid typing tasks. Additionally, if sound is a factor for you, while the exact acoustic profiles are not specified, you may find the gravel's refined feel and smooth sound make for a pleasant auditory experience during use. Ultimately, reflecting on your primary use case—whether you're prioritizing comfort and speed in typing or favoring a balance of responsiveness and a smooth tactile experience—will guide you in making the right switch choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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