HMX Gravel vs. Cherry MX Purple RGB
An in-depth look at the HMX Gravel and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Gravel and Cherry MX Purple RGB present distinct options that cater to different preferences. The HMX Gravel, a linear switch, is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness and refined typing experience. Its medium-light actuation force allows for a responsive and effortless typing experience, making it an attractive choice for those who prioritize fluid key presses during gaming or typing. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB, a tactile switch, provides a more pronounced tactile feedback with a short, medium-strength bump, ensuring users can feel their keystrokes without bottoming out. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy a more tactile sensation when typing, making it suitable for both gaming and productivity tasks. With these compelling features, both switches have their unique advantages, appealing to different styles of users. 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
45g
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 Purple RGB, we can observe notable differences in the composition of their top housings. The Gravel utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its rigidity and ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This stiffer plastic not only enhances the clarity and resonance of the keypress when typing but also allows for optimal RGB lighting effects due to its translucency. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB employs a nylon top housing, which is softer and absorbs sound more effectively. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, providing a contrasting auditory experience that is rounder and less defined than that of the Gravel.
Both switches feature nylon for their bottom housings, which allows them to produce a similarly deep and rich bottom-out sound and feel. Since nylon is known for its sound-absorbing properties, both the HMX Gravel and the Cherry MX Purple RGB deliver a warm, duller sound characteristic when keys are fully pressed down. This contributes to a satisfying tactile experience, which remains consistent across both models. Thus, while the top housing material significantly influences the higher pitches produced while releasing a key, the nylon bottom in both switches ensures that the overall audio experience remains rooted in a rich, fuller sound.
Ultimately, the different materials used in the top housings of the HMX Gravel and Cherry MX Purple RGB create distinct sound profiles that cater to varied preferences among typists and gamers. If users aim to achieve a balance of clarity and depth, they can benefit from the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in these designs. By understanding how the bottom housing influences the tactile feedback and deep sound, while the top housing shapes the release sound, users can appreciate the unique auditory experience offered by each switch, even while acknowledging their stylistic differences.
Weight
Comparing the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch reveals some interesting similarities and differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equal in terms of the effort required to register a keystroke, which facilitates a light typing experience. However, the bottom out force for the HMX Gravel is 50 grams, indicating that it requires a slightly stronger push to reach the end of its travel, whereas the bottom out force for the MX Purple RGB is unknown. This means that while both switches provide a consistent actuation feel, the Gravel switch will result in a slightly heavier experience when fully bottoming out. For users who prefer a lighter setup for extended typing or gaming sessions, the actuation force is a favorable feature for both switches. However, those who appreciate a more substantial typing experience might prefer the Gravel with its stronger bottom out force.
Travel distance
The HMX Gravel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch boasts a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Gravel switch the shorter option, favored by those who seek faster response times, particularly in gaming scenarios. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple, with its longer 4 mm travel distance, provides a more pronounced keystroke that some users may find more satisfying, particularly for typing or tasks requiring more deliberate input. Therefore, if you prefer a snappier feel, the Gravel switch is the better choice, whereas if you appreciate a deeper actuation, the Cherry MX Purple would be the way to go.
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 Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
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 celebrated for its exceptionally smooth operation, which contributes to a quiet typing experience, although specific sound characteristics are not detailed. This smoothness minimizes friction and rattling, ensuring a serene environment ideal for both gaming and typing. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch provides a more pronounced acoustic footprint due to its tactile bump, which can create satisfying auditory feedback when actuated. Overall, while the Gravel tends to be quieter and more subdued, the MX Purple RGB delivers a distinct sound that can enhance the tactile experience for users who enjoy auditory cues during their keypresses.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Gravel linear switch excels with a medium-light actuation force that allows for an effortlessly smooth and responsive typing experience. This fluidity makes it particularly appealing for long typing sessions and gaming alike, as it minimizes finger fatigue. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch is designed with a clearly defined tactile bump, providing a medium-strength feedback that some typists might find appealing. The tactile response might be more engaging for users who appreciate that moment of resistance as they press down, allowing for a different level of awareness during use.
In summary, the HMX Gravel linear and Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switches each offer unique qualities that can cater to different typing preferences. The Gravel is ideal for users seeking smoothness and a quieter operation, while the MX Purple RGB caters to those who appreciate tactile feedback and audible sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual typing styles and personal preferences. If you favor a seamless typing experience, the Gravel is the way to go, but if you're drawn to tactile response and sound, the MX Purple RGB will deliver satisfying results.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience, the Gravel switch is an excellent choice, particularly if you enjoy long typing sessions or gaming that benefits from quick key presses without much resistance. Its lighter actuation force also makes it appealing for those who prefer a less strenuous feel while typing. Conversely, if you value a tactile feedback that confirms each key press—perhaps you’re typing for hours and appreciate the satisfying bump that adds a layer of physicality to your inputs—then the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch would be more suitable. This switch offers a unique tactile experience designed for enthusiasts who enjoy the blend of responsiveness and distinct feedback in their keyboard interactions. Ultimately, both options serve different user experiences; deciding factors such as your typing habits, preference for tactile feedback, and overall keyboard aesthetic will guide you in choosing the right switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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