HMX Gravel vs. Gateron Mars
An in-depth look at the HMX Gravel and the Gateron Mars switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves comparing options that cater to different typing preferences and styles. The HMX Gravel, a linear switch, is highly regarded for its exceptional smoothness and refined typing feel, boasting a medium-light actuation force that offers a responsive and effortless experience. This makes it an appealing choice for those who value a fluid typing motion without the distraction of tactile feedback. In contrast, the Gateron Mars, another linear switch, distinguishes itself with its innovative design that features a unique POK stem and a housing crafted from a blend of Nylon and POM, providing a blend of durability and feel that many users appreciate. Both switches have their merits, with the Gravel excelling in smoothness and the Mars offering a robust construction for longevity. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your typing experience.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
The HMX Gravel and Gateron Mars switches utilize different materials in their top housings, which results in distinct sound profiles during typing. The Gravel features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its rigidity, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound. This material amplifies resonance and clarity, making it ideal for users who prefer a more energetic auditory feedback with each keystroke. In contrast, the Mars opts for a nylon top housing, a material typically characterized by its ability to absorb sound more effectively due to its softer nature. This leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a more muted auditory experience. Therefore, the choice of top housing material significantly influences the overall typing sensation and acoustic feedback users can expect from each switch.
The bottom housing components of the switches also contribute to their overall sound profiles, although both the Gravel and the Mars switch use nylon in the bottom housing. This commonality means that both switches will exhibit certain acoustic characteristics that are inherently linked to the properties of nylon. The Gravel, with its nylon bottom housing, enjoys the benefits associated with a fuller sound profile and enhanced sound absorption, resulting in a less sharp and more rounded auditory feedback. Meanwhile, the Mars switch features a POM bottom housing, which delivers its own unique sound that is equally deep yet distinctly more muted compared to nylon. Consequently, while both switches employ nylon in their lower halves, the different materials in their top housings lead to a divergence in the overall sound experience.
Ultimately, when comparing the HMX Gravel and Gateron Mars switches, it's clear that the combined effects of the top and bottom housing materials bring different auditory qualities to the typing experience. Users can expect a crisper and more resonant sound from the Gravel switch due to the polycarbonate top housing, while the Mars allows for deeper and more absorbed sound due to its nylon top. However, since both switches share nylon in their bottom housings, the dampening qualities present in nylon will somewhat align their sound profiles, allowing users to appreciate smoother bottom-out sensations regardless of their choice. Thus, while the two switches provide contrasting sound experiences overall, the common use of nylon in the bottoms ensures a baseline of consistency in typing feel.
Weight
The HMX Gravel linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch both share the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light for triggering keystrokes. This similarity means that users can expect a comparable experience when engaging with the switches during typing or gaming sessions, ensuring consistent performance for prolonged usage. However, the bottom out force differs significantly between the two; the Gravel has a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Mars switch does not have a specified bottom out force available. Consequently, the Gravel switch provides a heavier feel upon bottoming out, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Overall, while both switches have the same actuation force, the Gravel's documented bottom out force provides a clearer indication of its heavier characteristics in terms of the overall typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Gravel and Gateron Mars linear switches, we find that the Gravel has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Mars features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Gravel the shorter option, providing a more responsive feel, which may cater to gamers seeking quicker key presses. In contrast, the Mars, with its additional 0.1 mm, offers a deeper travel experience, which some users might prefer for its more pronounced tactile feedback. Therefore, if you value speed and responsiveness, the Gravel would be the better choice, but if you appreciate a more substantial depth during key presses, the Gateron Mars may suit you better.
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 Gateron Mars has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mars for $5.50.
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
The HMX Gravel linear switch is known for its smoothness, which would generally suggest a rather quiet sound profile, offering a muted yet satisfying acoustic experience during typing. While the specific sound qualities of the Gravel aren't mentioned, it is reasonable to assume that its design leans towards a softer sound, aligning with its smooth operation. In contrast, the Gateron Mars switch utilizes a unique POK stem and a blend of Nylon and POM for the housing, which suggests a different sound signature. While we can't determine the exact audio characteristics of the Mars switches from the available information, their material composition might contribute to a fuller sound. Overall, both switches are likely to produce relatively subdued sounds akin to typical linear switches, but specific acoustic performances may vary based on the keyboard's design and the choice of keycaps.
When considering the feel, the Gravel switch excels in providing an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience, characterized by a medium-light actuation force that leans slightly towards the lighter side. This affords a responsive and effortless typing experience making it appealing to enthusiasts who prioritize a gentle pressing force. The Mars switch, while also falling under the linear category, boasts a unique design that effectively combines its specialized housing and stem. Without specific feedback on its tactile characteristics, we can infer that while the Gravel may emphasize smoothness to a greater extent, the Mars may introduce subtle differences in feel due to its distinctive materials and construction, though both are likely aimed at providing a comfortable typing experience.
In summary, while both the HMX Gravel and Gateron Mars linear switches are designed to deliver smooth and satisfying keypresses, the Gravel emphasizes a refined typing experience with a lighter actuation force, which may appeal to users who enjoy a more effortless touch. The Mars switch, with its innovative design and material blend, could provide a slightly different feel and sound, although specifics are unknown. Ultimately, both switches promise a pleasant experience, and depending on your preferences, you might find that either switch suits your typing style well, featuring smooth operation and comfortable feedback, albeit with potentially different acoustic and tactile nuances.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch, your decision should hinge on your specific preferences for typing experience and feel. If you favor a lighter touch with a smooth and responsive feel, the Gravel switch is an excellent choice. With its bottom-out force of just 50 grams, it facilitates a comfortable typing experience that is particularly appealing for extended use, whether you’re typing up documents or gaming. On the other hand, if you’re intrigued by innovative design and materials, the Mars switch might catch your interest. Although specific metrics for its actuation force are unavailable, the unique POK stem and housing made from a blend of Nylon and POM promise an interesting typing experience that could be worth exploring. Ultimately, if you prioritize a defined light touch and an exceptionally smooth feel, the HMX Gravel will suit you well; conversely, if you wish to experiment with a distinct switch design, the Gateron Mars could be the switch for you.
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