HMX Gravel vs. Cherry MX Orange
An in-depth look at the HMX Gravel and the Cherry MX Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, two notable contenders are the HMX Gravel and the Cherry MX Orange, both of which are linear switches that cater to distinct preferences. The HMX Gravel is lauded for its exceptional smoothness and refined typing feel, making it a favorite among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts who appreciate a responsive and effortless typing experience. With a medium-light actuation force that leans towards the lighter side, the Gravel offers not only speed but also a satisfying tactile sensation. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Orange switches, recently reissued with enhancements from the original MX Orange designs, provide a familiar and reliable experience, characterized by their durability and performance consistency, making them a solid choice for those who value a traditional yet refined typing feel. While both switches boast linear characteristics, their unique nuances can significantly impact your typing experience. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Yes
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Gravel and the Cherry MX Orange, several distinct characteristics emerge. The Gravel features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is largely attributed to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances resonance and clarity, making it particularly suitable for RGB lighting applications due to its translucency. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange utilizes a nylon top housing, which is traditionally favored for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon’s softer composition absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder tonal quality compared to the Gravel’s sharper output. Thus, the fundamental difference in the sound signature between the two switches can be traced back to the contrasting properties of their top housing materials.
In terms of bottom housings, both the HMX Gravel and the Cherry MX Orange employ nylon materials. This similarity means that both switches will experience a deeper and fuller sound profile during the typing experience, as nylon's softer nature dampens sound more effectively than harder plastics. The sound produced when bottoming out a key will retain that characteristic roundness and depth across both switches, contributing to overall auditory consistency when pressing down the keys. Despite the variation in top housing materials leading to differing sound profiles, the shared nylon bottom housing provides a cohesive auditory foundation for both options.
Ultimately, if one were to combine the disparate qualities of both switches, the result would be a unique typing experience that balances the sharpness of the Gravel's polycarbonate top with the fullness of the MX Orange's nylon properties. The clearer sound associated with the Gravel’s top housing would still be influenced by the richness of the nylon bottom, creating a blend of auditory experiences that cater to differing preferences. In practice, users could find commonalities in typing satisfaction across both switches, especially during the bottoming out phase, thanks to their identical bottom housings. This underscores the idea that while the top and bottom materials of a switch are indeed different, their collective properties can yield similar results in terms of overall sound and feel during use.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch, there are notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces that cater to different user preferences. The HMX Gravel features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for users seeking a more effortless typing experience, ideal for extended use during work or long gaming sessions. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange switch demands a heavier actuation force of 55 grams. While its bottom out force is unknown, the higher actuation weight suggests a stronger push feel, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the Gravel switch is the lighter option, promoting ease of use, whereas the MX Orange offers a heavier, more tactile response, making it a matter of personal preference based on typing style and comfort.
Travel distance
The HMX Gravel linear switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Cherry MX Orange linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference indicates that the Gravel switch requires less downward movement to register a key press, making it potentially more appealing for gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Orange, with its 4 mm travel, offers a more substantial feel that some users may find comfortable and less abrupt. Consequently, the Gravel switch is the shorter option while the Cherry MX Orange is the longer switch, catering to different user preferences in tactile feedback and responsiveness.
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 Orange has an MSRP of $4.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Orange for $3.89.
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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Gravel linear switch is notably smooth but specific auditory characteristics are not provided, leaving some unknowns about its acoustic profile. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Orange switch, while also a linear switch generally known for being quieter than tactile or clicky options, may produce a soft, muted sound during operation, though exact sound traits are similarly unspecified. It's essential to keep in mind that the sound of any switch can vary greatly depending on the keyboard construction and the choice of keycaps used, which means both switches may offer a different auditory experience based on setup.
In terms of feel, the HMX Gravel stands out for its exceptional smoothness and refined typing experience. This switch has a medium-light actuation force that provides a fairly light and responsive touch, making it accessible for prolonged typing sessions without causing finger fatigue. The Cherry MX Orange switches, meanwhile, are built on the legacy of the original MX Orange switches, and while specific tactile feedback is not detailed, they are generally designed to deliver a refined experience as well. Like the Gravel, they also lean towards a lighter touch, which can cater to users seeking a dynamic and smooth keystroke.
In conclusion, while the HMX Gravel and Cherry MX Orange switches both promise a smooth typing experience, the HMX Gravel is celebrated for its exceptional refinement and lightweight actuation, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts. The Cherry MX Orange, with its roots in a sought-after design, aims to provide an equally pleasant experience but with some unknowns in tactile feedback specifics. Overall, both switches should yield similarly satisfying results in the right setups, especially if sound dampening and keycap choice are considered in crafting a tailored mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Gravel and Cherry MX Orange switches will primarily depend on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prioritize a light and smooth typing experience, the Gravel switches might be the best fit for you, especially if you enjoy a responsive feel with minimal resistance. Their medium-light actuation is ideal for those who type quickly or prefer less effort when pressing keys, making them great for prolonged typing sessions or gaming where speed is crucial. On the other hand, if you lean toward a more classic, robust option with a storied heritage, the Cherry MX Orange switches could be the way to go. They are optimal for users who desire a tactile feel without overwhelming resistance, offering a balance between typing comfort and keystroke feedback. Ultimately, your choice should reflect what you value most in your typing experience—whether it’s the refined smoothness of Gravel or the distinctive character of MX Orange. Consider trying both to determine which switch resonates with your style and enhances your overall enjoyment of mechanical keyboards.
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