Gateron Glory Yellow vs. HMX SU

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly impact your typing experience, and two popular linear options to consider are the Gateron Glory Yellow and the HMX SU. The Gateron Glory Yellow switches are revered for their heavier feel, providing a smooth keystroke with a pleasing travel distance that many users find enhances their typing satisfaction. In contrast, the HMX SU switches boast a unique construction with a full PA12 housing and a T5 stem, which results in a subtle yet relatively deep sound profile that appeals to those who prefer a bit of auditory feedback while typing. While the Glory Yellow excels in delivering a robust tactile experience, the HMX SU is celebrated for its sound characteristics, making it an intriguing option for different user preferences. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.

By the numbers

Gateron Glory Yellow Linear

HMX SU Linear

$4.50

$4.19 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Glory Yellow and HMX SU switches, one finds a consistent theme in both models: the use of nylon for both the top and bottom housings. Both switches share the same characteristics typically associated with nylon as a housing material, which includes a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The inherent properties of nylon allow for an absorption of sound, making the typing experience not only satisfying but also quieter than switches made with harder plastics. The result is a largely similar auditory experience when typing, regardless of the model, as both facilitate a duller and rounder sound.

While the Gateron Glory Yellow and HMX SU utilize nylon in their housing, the impact of this material manifests differently depending on the context of a key press. The bottom housing, made of nylon, contributes significantly to the feel and sound when bottoming out a key, which is essential for typists who favor a pronounced response. In contrast, the top housing plays a larger role in the sound profile when the key is released. This shared material feature means that users can expect similar sensory outcomes in terms of sound and feel when using either switch, providing a uniform tactile experience across both models.

However, understanding the overall performance of each switch requires noting that while they share the same materials, other factors—such as design and ergonomics—might differentiate them further. While both switches aim to produce a rich auditory experience through the same nylon composition, personal preferences for one switch over another might arise from nuances in their design and responsiveness. In summary, the Gateron Glory Yellow and HMX SU switches exhibit paralleling sound and tactile responses due to their identical nylon housing materials, leading to a comparable experience for the user.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces, though their bottom out forces present a gap in information. The Glory Yellow requires an actuation force of 50 grams, while the SU is slightly lighter at 45 grams, making it the more comfortable option for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. However, the bottom out force for the Glory Yellow is unknown, while the HMX SU features a bottom out force of 50 grams, signifying a more substantial end-point feel when a key is fully pressed down. Overall, if you're looking for a lighter switch for ease during extended use, the HMX SU is the preferred choice, while the Glory Yellow's characteristics are not fully discernible without its bottom out force data.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, there is a noticeable difference between the two. The Glory Yellow features a travel distance of 4 mm, which is aligned with the traditional standard, providing a deeper keystroke that some users may find more satisfying and hearty. In contrast, the HMX SU has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it a better fit for users who prefer a quicker response time, often favored by gamers. This shorter distance allows for faster actuation, though some may find the abrupt feedback less enjoyable. Overall, the Gateron Glory Yellow offers a longer travel distance compared to the HMX SU, appealing to those who appreciate a more substantial keypress. If you seek a more responsive feel, opting for the shorter HMX SU might be beneficial, while those who value a deeper keystroke would prefer the Gateron Glory Yellow.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Glory Yellow switch is characterized by a relatively subdued noise level that is often appreciated in office and shared environments, allowing for a quieter typing experience. While specific sound qualities are not detailed, user feedback suggests it maintains a pleasant auditory presence without being overly loud or distracting. In contrast, the HMX SU linear switch boasts a subtle yet relatively deep sound profile due to its PA12 housing and T5 stem. This can provide a more pronounced acoustic feedback during typing, enhancing the overall tactile experience without reaching disruptive levels.

When it comes to the feel, the Glory Yellow switch is celebrated for its smooth keystroke and enjoyable travel distance, contributing to a satisfying and fluid typing experience. The emphasis on its heavier characteristic makes it suitable for those who prefer a more substantial feel when bottoming out. The HMX SU switch, on the other hand, provides a unique tactile response due to its specialized housing and stem combination, though specifics about its smoothness or resistance are not provided. Typically, linear switches like the SU offer a consistent resistance throughout the keystroke, which can lead to an equally enjoyable typing experience, particularly for users who favor linear action.

In summary, both the Gateron Glory Yellow and the HMX SU linear switches offer distinct typing experiences with their own sound and feel attributes. While the Glory Yellow is known for its smoothness and quieter operation, the SU provides a deeper sound profile that may appeal to those looking for a more resonant typing experience. Ultimately, both switches cater to preferences for linear performance, allowing users to achieve similar overall satisfaction while also highlighting unique characteristics that may sway personal choice.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Glory Yellow and the HMX SU linear switches ultimately boils down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a smooth keystroke with a more forgiving travel distance that enhances your overall typing experience, you would likely enjoy the Gateron Glory Yellow. Its design caters to those who appreciate a seamless and engaging feel without the distractions of a heavier bottom-out force. However, if you’re looking for a switch that provides a slightly heavier feel with a subtle and deeper sound profile, the HMX SU would be your go-to choice. Its 50-gram bottom-out force could give you a satisfying tactile feedback while maintaining a smooth action for both gaming and typing. Thus, consider your comfort level, desired sound characteristics, and overall typing experience when making your decision, as both options cater to different needs within the realm of linear switches.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Glory Yellow Linear

$4.50

$4.19 per 10

Learn more

HMX SU Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more