HMX Gravel vs. Cherry MX Black
An in-depth look at the HMX Gravel and the Cherry MX Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the selection often boils down to personal preference and intended use. The HMX Gravel switch offers a remarkably smooth and responsive typing experience, making it an excellent option for those who prioritize speed and ease of use. With a medium-light actuation force, it leans towards a lighter touch that can provide a more effortless typing feel, appealing especially to gamers and typists who value speed and precision. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black switch is known for its classic low-pitched sound profile and textured feel, offering a satisfying tactile experience with a stiffer actuation force. This makes it a compelling choice for users seeking durability and a more deliberate typing experience, as well as those who enjoy the auditory feedback of their keystrokes. While both switches have their merits, understanding their distinct characteristics and qualities is essential in finding the right fit for your typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Gravel and Cherry MX Black switches, the variance in the top housings is particularly noteworthy. The Gravel features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for allowing a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This material enhances the resonance and clarity of sound, particularly when using RGB lighting, as polycarbonate’s translucency allows for the diffusion of light. In contrast, the Cherry MX Black opts for a nylon top housing, characteristic of producing a deeper, fuller sound profile. Nylon’s softer composition absorbs sound more effectively, leading to a more muted auditory experience. Consequently, while the Gravel's top housing is tailored for clarity and brightness, the MX Black’s nylon top prioritizes a more subdued acoustic response.
Interestingly, both the Gravel and MX Black switches share nylon as their bottom housing material, which leads to a convergence in their auditory characteristics. The nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches, absorbing more vibrations and resulting in a rounder sound compared to alternatives that utilize harder plastics. This commonality means that when typing on either switch, users will experience a similar bottom-out sound and feel due to the nylon’s material properties that influence the auditory experience during key presses.
Ultimately, if you're utilizing either switch, you can expect a unique blend of sonic profiles shaped by the distinct characteristics of their respective top housings. In the case of the Gravel switch, its polycarbonate top will create a crisp sound when keys are released, while the MX Black, with its nylon top, will present a softer, more rounded sound during the same action. The nylon bottom housing in both switches ensures a consistent depth in sound when a key bottoms out, but the overall typing experience will differ depending on the interaction between the specified top and bottom housing materials. Thus, while both switches are similar in their bottom housing and resulting sound quality, the choice of top housing plays a pivotal role in defining the overall sonic signature.
Weight
The HMX Gravel linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch differ significantly in their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to distinct user preferences. The Gravel switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who favor a more effortless typing experience. This is particularly beneficial for long typing sessions or gaming marathons, as it reduces finger fatigue. In contrast, the Cherry MX Black switch requires a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial and tactile feedback for typists who prefer a stronger push feel. Consequently, individuals who value a robust typing experience would find the Cherry MX Black switch more appealing, while those seeking comfort during extended use would gravitate towards the HMX Gravel linear switch. Overall, the Gravel's lighter forces contribute to a more relaxed typing experience, whereas the MX Black's heavier forces cater to those desiring a firmer keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, we observe that the Gravel switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Cherry MX Black has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the HMX Gravel the shorter of the two options, suitable for those who prioritize quick response times and a snappier typing experience, often favored by gamers. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black's longer 4 mm travel distance provides a more substantial feel, appealing to users who prefer a deeper keypress for enhanced tactile feedback. Therefore, if you seek a responsive experience, the Gravel switch might be the better choice, whereas if you favor a more solid depth in your keypress, the Cherry MX Black would be ideal.
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 Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 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 known for its exceptional smoothness, which often translates into a more subtle audibility during typing. While a precise descriptor for its sound profile isn't provided, the emphasis on a smooth experience suggests that it may produce a quieter, less intrusive sound compared to other switches. Conversely, the Cherry MX Black switch delivers a distinct low-pitched, bass-heavy sound that manifests as a more mellow typing experience. This deeper sound profile is appreciated by typists who enjoy a rich auditory feedback when typing, contributing to a satisfying acoustic environment that stands in contrast to the potentially quieter Gravel switches.
When examining the feel of each switch, the HMX Gravel offers a medium-light actuation force that's designed for a responsive and effortless typing experience. This switch aims to provide a refined and smooth sensation with each keystroke, appealing to those who prioritize a fluid typing motion. In contrast, the Cherry MX Black incorporates a textured feel that can come off as scratchy and may require more force to actuate. Its stiffer nature means that typists may feel a degree of resistance that necessitates deliberate pressure, catering to users who prefer a more robust typing experience over a softer touch.
In summary, the HMX Gravel and Cherry MX Black switches provide distinct experiences in both sound and feel. The Gravel is oriented towards a smoother, potentially quieter typing experience with a lighter actuation force, while the MX Black offers a deep, satisfying sound accompanied by a stiffer and textured feel. For those looking for a refined yet responsive typing experience, the Gravel is likely to be preferred. On the other hand, if a user values a substantial, tactile experience with audible feedback, the Cherry MX Black is a solid option. Both switches cater to different preferences, ensuring that typists can find a model that closely aligns with their desired keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between HMX Gravel linear switches and Cherry MX Black linear switches largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a lighter touch and desire a smooth, responsive experience with effortless keystrokes, the HMX Gravel switches are likely your best option. Their lower actuation force of 50 grams combined with exceptional smoothness makes them ideal for prolonged typing sessions and general use, encouraging less finger fatigue. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial feel and a heavier bottom-out force, the Cherry MX Black switches may be more suited for you. The 80 grams of resistance offers a firmer typing experience, which can be beneficial for those who enjoy tactile feedback and find comfort in the deeper, more bass-heavy sound profile. Ultimately, whether you lean towards the light, refined touch of the Gravel or the sturdy, textured feedback of the MX Black, consider what aspects of typing—be it smoothness, actuation force, or audible feedback—mean the most to you in order to enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
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