HMX Gravel vs. Jerrzi Honey Bean

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Gravel and the Jerrzi Honey Bean are both enticing linear options, each catering to distinct user preferences. The Gravel stands out for its exceptional smoothness and refined typing feel, making it a favorite among enthusiasts who appreciate a responsive and effortless experience. With a medium-light actuation force that leans towards the lighter side, these switches provide a satisfying tactile response that many typists find appealing. In contrast, the Honey Bean switches offer a light, airy action while emphasizing silent operation, making them perfect for use in quieter environments such as offices. Their muted characteristics allow for undistracted typing, which is ideal for shared spaces. While both switches promise enjoyable typing experiences, they serve different needs based on typing preference and environment. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Gravel Linear

Jerrzi Honey Bean Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$4.00

$3.59 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Gravel and the Jerrzi Honey Bean, it is evident that the two switches utilize different top housing materials that contribute distinctly to their overall sound profile. The Gravel features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its higher-pitched and crisper sound due to its stiffness, which allows for a clear and resonant auditory experience. This property makes polycarbonate particularly beneficial in scenarios involving RGB lighting, as its translucency enhances the aesthetic appeal. In contrast, the Honey Bean employs a POM top housing, which delivers a more muted and deeper sound profile. While both materials serve their purpose in enhancing sound, the polycarbonate used in the Gravel's housing generally emphasizes bright clarity, whereas the POM in the Honey Bean prioritizes a smoother, more subdued auditory experience.

Moving to the bottom housings, both the HMX Gravel and the Jerrzi Honey Bean share similarities that result in deeper sound profiles. The Gravel opts for a nylon bottom housing, which is known for its classic performance and ability to absorb sound effectively, thus contributing to a deeper and rounder auditory experience. This contrasts with the Honey Bean's POM bottom housing, which similarly creates a unique and satisfying sound profile on the deeper side, albeit with a more muted character. Notably, both nylon and POM are softer plastics compared to the harder options available, which allows for the softer impact when bottoming out and consequently contributes to how sound resonates through the switch upon key releases.

Ultimately, the differences and similarities in the HMX Gravel and Jerrzi Honey Bean housing materials indicate that while they produce distinctive sound characteristics, they can achieve complementary results. The contrasting sound profiles of the polycarbonate and POM top housings allow users to choose based on their preference for either clarity or depth. On the flip side, the shared qualities of the nylon and POM bottom housings facilitate a cohesive auditory experience that emphasizes the deeper tones when keys are pressed down. By appreciating both the strengths of each housing material and the ways in which they interact, users can find the right balance to suit their typing experience, underscoring the nuanced differences and similarities between these two mechanical switches.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch, we note distinct differences in actuation force, while the bottom out force for the Honey Bean remains unknown. The Gravel switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, which is on the lighter side, providing a comfortable typing experience for prolonged sessions. In contrast, the Honey Bean switch features a slightly lighter actuation force of 42 grams, making it an even better option for those who prefer less resistance while typing or gaming. However, since the bottom out force for the Honey Bean is unavailable, we cannot make a direct comparison in that aspect. The Gravel's bottom out force is listed as 50 grams, indicating that it delivers a firmer feel upon bottoming out. Overall, if you prioritize lower weight for extended use, the Honey Bean may be preferable. Conversely, if you seek a more substantial typing feel, the HMX Gravel offers a firmer response.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch, we see a distinct difference in their specifications. The Gravel has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, whereas the Honey Bean features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that the Gravel is the shorter switch, which may be more appealing to gamers seeking faster response times due to its shorter actuation distance. On the other hand, the Honey Bean's 3.7 mm travel distance may provide a more substantial feel, which some users might prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for responsiveness versus key depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Gravel switch is not explicitly described, but its smooth operation suggests a less pronounced acoustic profile, which could lean towards a more subdued sound similar to other linear switches. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Honey Bean switch is characterized as muted, producing a softer and quieter sound than traditional mechanical switches. This makes it particularly beneficial in environments like offices or shared spaces, where minimizing noise is often a priority. Given this, while both switches may not be overly loud, the Honey Bean clearly takes the lead in noise reduction, making it the better choice for discreet use.

When it comes to feel, the Gravel switch is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness and refined typing experience, offering a medium-light actuation force that makes it responsive and enjoyable to use. Meanwhile, the Honey Bean switches are designed to be easy to press, requiring minimal force for activation. This results in a feathery feel that not only enhances comfort during extended typing sessions but also reduces finger fatigue. Both switches provide a light touch, catering to users who prefer a responsive and low-impact typing experience, making them appealing options for prolonged use.

In conclusion, both the HMX Gravel and Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switches deliver excellent typing experiences, albeit with some differences in sound and feel qualities. The Gravel offers a smooth and refined touch suitable for general typing, while the Honey Bean excels in silent operation and effortless key presses, ideal for noisy environments. Ultimately, if you're seeking a satisfying typing experience, either switch can significantly enhance your mechanical keyboard setup, depending on whether you prioritize sound dampening or a refined tactile feel.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the HMX Gravel and Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switches largely depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you favor a smooth and refined typing experience with a medium-light actuation force, the HMX Gravel is an excellent choice, particularly for enthusiasts who appreciate a bit of feedback in their keystrokes without compromising responsiveness. Its 50g bottom-out force makes it suitable for both leisurely typing and more intensive tasks, striking a balance that many find appealing. Conversely, if you're working in a shared environment where noise is a concern, the Jerrzi Honey Bean would be your go-to switch. Its muted sound profile and lightweight, easy-to-press action ensure that you can type swiftly and quietly, making it ideal for office settings or quiet study areas. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your typing style and the environments in which you'll be using your keyboard; opting for the Gravel for a balanced feel or the Honey Bean for discretion and comfort.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Gravel Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Jerrzi Honey Bean Linear

$4.00

$3.59 per 10

Learn more