HMX Gravel vs. HMX Lucky

Overview

When comparing the HMX Gravel and HMX Lucky switches, both notable linear options in the mechanical keyboard realm, enthusiasts have compelling reasons to consider each. The HMX Gravel, renowned for its exceptional smoothness and refined typing feel, provides a medium-light actuation force that skews towards the lighter end, allowing for a responsive and effortless typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Lucky switches feature a softer, glittery nylon housing that contributes to a typing experience that is not only lightweight but also neutral and deeply satisfying. While the Gravel might appeal to those seeking a more pronounced smoothness and responsiveness, the Lucky draws in users looking for an equally satisfying yet subtly luxurious experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing style and preferences.

By the numbers

HMX Gravel Linear

HMX Lucky Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When examining the housing materials of the HMX Gravel and the HMX Lucky switches, notable differences emerge in their top housings. The Gravel features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffer structure, delivering a sharper and crisper sound profile. This material's translucency lends itself well to RGB lighting setups, enhancing the visual appeal without sacrificing audio quality. In contrast, the Lucky incorporates a nylon top housing, a classic option that offers a deeper, fuller sound characteristic. The softness of nylon leads to greater sound absorption, resulting in a rounder and duller auditory experience. Thus, while both switches are designed to offer distinct sound profiles, their choice of top housing significantly influences the auditory effects produced during use, setting them apart from one another.

Both the Gravel and Lucky switches, however, utilize nylon for their bottom housings, uniting them in terms of material and sound characteristics. The nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a deeper sound profile that many users find pleasurable. The inherent softness of nylon absorbs sound more effectively than stiffer plastics, resulting in a more muted and rounded bottom-out sound. Since the bottom housing has a considerable impact on the bottom-out feel when a key is pressed down, both switches will share similar tactile feedback despite differences in the top housing. This alignment in bottom housing material suggests that users can expect consistent characteristics related to the sound and feel when bottoming out, creating a common ground for overall typing experience across the two switches.

Ultimately, the combination of the distinct materials in the top housings paired with the similarity in the bottom housings leads to a diverse range of auditory experiences when using the HMX Gravel and HMX Lucky switches. The Gravel's polycarbonate top will contribute a brighter sound upon release, complementing the deeper notes from the nylon bottom. Conversely, the Lucky's nylon top will emphasize warmth and fullness, aligning well with the deeper sound profile produced by its nylon bottom. Thus, both switches, while diverging in their top materials and thereby their overall sound profiles, share a unified experience due to their nylon bottom housings, allowing users to enjoy a blend of textures and tones in their typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Gravel linear switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch, we find notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Gravel switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Lucky switch features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams. This makes the Lucky switch the lighter of the two options, which may be more appealing to users looking for a keyboard that offers less resistance during long typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Gravel's heavier actuation and bottom out forces can provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a firmer feel. Overall, while both switches are on the lighter side, users will find that the Gravel requires more force to actuate and bottom out compared to the more effortless Lucky switch.

Travel distance

The HMX Gravel linear switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the HMX Lucky linear switch extends slightly further with a travel distance of 3.8 mm. This makes the Gravel the shorter option, offering a more responsive feel ideal for those who favor quicker keystrokes, particularly in gaming scenarios. On the other hand, the Lucky's longer travel distance may provide a more substantial depth for users who appreciate a more pronounced typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences: the Gravel’s shorter travel distance is preferable for speed, while the Lucky is suited for a more deliberate feel. Thus, your choice between the two will largely depend on your personal typing style and comfort level with switch responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the HMX Gravel linear switch is characterized by its smooth and muted acoustics, which complement its refined nature, making it suitable for quiet office environments or shared spaces. On the other hand, the HMX Lucky linear switch is known for its softer sound, an attribute helped by its nylon housing. This contributes to a sound that’s less intrusive and very pleasant, offering a blissfully silent typing experience. However, it's essential to remember that the overall sound can also be affected by keycap material and the design of the keyboard itself, so you might find variations in sound based on your specific setup.

When it comes to feel, the HMX Gravel switch shines with its exceptionally smooth action and medium-light actuation force, providing a responsive typing experience that many enthusiasts appreciate. The typing experience is engaging yet relaxed, allowing for extended typing sessions with minimal finger fatigue. In contrast, the HMX Lucky linear switch features a lightweight design paired with a neutral and satisfying feedback, making it feel easy to type on without the strain, which is also appealing for long typing tasks. Both switches offer enjoyable experiences, but the Gravel might lean slightly towards a more refined tactile sensation while the Lucky provides a more laid-back feel.

In conclusion, both the HMX Gravel and HMX Lucky linear switches cater to specific preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. While the Gravel boasts a more refined and smooth typing experience, the Lucky emphasizes a deeply satisfying and lightweight feel combined with a soft acoustic profile. Whichever switch you choose, you’re likely to enjoy an engaging typing experience, whether you prioritize the smoothness of the Gravel or the satisfying neutrality of the Lucky.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the HMX Gravel and HMX Lucky linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a smooth and refined typing experience with a slightly heavier bottom-out force, the Gravel switch is likely your best option. Its 50g actuation provides a responsive feel that can enhance your typing speed while still being light enough for comfortable, extended use. On the other hand, if you prefer an even lighter touch and a more neutral, satisfying typing experience, the HMX Lucky, with its 43g bottom-out force, would be ideal. The softer, glittery nylon housing adds a unique aesthetic appeal that might resonate with those who enjoy a bit of flair in their setup. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you value a touch of extra feedback from the Grave or the lighter, more carefree typing experience offered by the Lucky. Consider your preferences for force, sound, and overall feel to make a decision that complements your typing habits and aesthetic desires.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Gravel Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

HMX Lucky Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more