HMX Gravel vs. Gazzew LT
An in-depth look at the HMX Gravel and the Gazzew LT switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves confronted with a myriad of options, two noteworthy choices being the HMX Gravel and the Gazzew LT. The HMX Gravel stands out for its smoothness and refined typing feel, boasting a medium-light actuation force that creates a responsive and effortless typing experience. This makes the Gravel a favored option for those who appreciate a lightweight switch that facilitates quick and fluid keystrokes. In contrast, the Gazzew LT, adorned in an enticing lilac hue, delivers a unique auditory experience with its deep, resonant thockiness, offering a satisfying sound profile that enhances the tactile experience. While both switches are classified as linear, the LT’s low-pitched, thocky characteristics cater specifically to users who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback during their typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between these two options hinges on individual preferences for sound and feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that's perfect for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The HMX Gravel and the Gazzew LT switches utilize distinctly different materials for their top housings, which significantly influences their respective sound profiles. The Gravel leverages polycarbonate for its top housing, resulting in a sound that is sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper. This stiffness allows for a resonant sound that is especially pronounced when illuminated by RGB lighting, as the material's translucency showcases the lighting effects beautifully. In contrast, the Gazzew LT features a proprietary "boba plastic" for its top housing, characterized by a softer composition that produces a richer and deeper sound profile. The inherent properties of the materials cause the Gravel switches to have a more pronounced and clean sound on key release, while the Gazzew LT focuses more on softness and depth, contributing to a more rounded acoustics.
Both switches, however, employ a soft material for their bottom housing, with the Gravel using nylon and the Gazzew LT utilizing its proprietary blend. While nylon is established as a classic housing material and is known for delivering a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its ability to absorb sound, the Gazzew blend similarly achieves a rich sound. The key difference lies in the specific characteristics of the materials; nylon's soft texture contributes to a somewhat muted and rounded acoustic when bottoming out, whereas the Gazzew blend aims for a more enveloping richness. This creates a sense of continuity in sound quality between the two switches, despite their differing top materials.
Ultimately, the interplay of the top and bottom housing materials in both the Gravel and Gazzew LT switches shapes their overall sound profile and user experience. The Gravel's crisp top housing contrasted with its deep-sounding nylon bottom leads to a well-balanced auditory feedback that feels distinct during key presses and releases. On the other hand, the Gazzew LT's overall softness results in a cohesive sound that's consistent across key actions. While users may observe variances in crisper versus deeper acoustics, both switches can provide satisfying typing experiences if matched with suitable usage contexts, emphasizing the subtleties of material selection in mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The HMX Gravel boasts a light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for prolonged typing sessions without causing fatigue. In contrast, the Gazzew LT has an undefined actuation force but a bottom out force of 65 grams, indicating a medium-heavy feel. This heavier bottom out force offers a more substantial typing experience, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push. Consequently, while the Gravel is the lighter option, providing ease of use over extended periods, the LT is heavier, catering to users who seek tactile feedback and resistance in their keystrokes. Both switches provide distinct typing experiences, allowing users to select based on their personal preferences for weight and feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch, the Gravel features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the LT has a slightly shorter distance of 3.2 mm. This means that users seeking a more responsive typing experience may prefer the LT due to its shorter actuation distance, which can provide quicker response times—an attribute often favored by gamers. However, for those who appreciate a more substantial feel during key presses, the Gravel's 3.5 mm travel distance offers a more pronounced depth and feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference: for a swifter experience, the Gazzew LT is ideal, whereas the HMX Gravel provides a fuller keystroke sensation.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gazzew LT comes in at $6.50 per 10 switches.
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 HMX Gravel linear switch is characterized by its smooth operation and quieter profile, making it an ideal choice for users who prefer a more subdued auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, the Gazzew LT linear switch offers a distinctly different auditory signature, known for its deep, resonant thockiness that provides an enjoyable acoustic feedback with a lower frequency range. The combination of bassy and low-pitched tones creates a satisfying auditory experience that enhances the tactile feedback, appealing to those who appreciate a more pronounced sound during their keystrokes.
When considering the feel of these switches, the Gravel excels with its exceptional smoothness and refined typing experience, providing a medium-light actuation force that contributes to an effortless responsiveness. This combination allows for fluid typing, making the Gravel feel light and nimble under the fingers. In contrast, the Gazzew LT is known for its seamless glide with each keystroke, although specifics about its tactile feedback compared to the Gravel remain unknown. The Gravel's smoothness and lighter actuation force may result in a more agile typing experience, whereas the LT likely offers a different texture that could appeal to users who enjoy a subtly distinct typing sensation.
Overall, the HMX Gravel linear switch and Gazzew LT linear switch cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Gravel offers a quieter, smooth typing experience, ideal for those who favor a more subtle auditory backdrop, while the LT provides a pronounced thocky sound, enhancing the auditory pleasure for those who enjoy deeper tones. Each switch presents its unique qualities, making them both great options depending on the user’s personal preferences regarding typing sound and feel.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you desire. If you appreciate a lighter touch with a smooth, refined feel, the Gravel switch is an excellent choice. Its lower actuation force of 50 grams allows for quick and effortless typing, making it ideal for prolonged writing sessions or fast-paced gaming where you want a responsive key press without excessive effort. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, the LT switch will likely suit you better. Known for its signature deep and thocky sound profile, the LT provides a rich auditory feedback that can enhance your typing experience significantly, creating a satisfying acoustic environment. Therefore, choose the Gravel for speed and ease, while opting for the LT if you crave a more tactile, sound-rich experience—ultimately, it boils down to your personal preferences in weight, sound, and feel.
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