HMX Gravel vs. Outemu Brown

Overview

When choosing a mechanical keyboard, the type of switch you opt for can greatly influence your overall typing experience, with the HMX Gravel and Outemu Brown switches representing two distinct preferences. The HMX Gravel is a linear switch celebrated for its exceptional smoothness and refined typing feel, providing a medium-light actuation force that allows for an effortlessly responsive experience, making it ideal for those who prioritize speed and fluidity in their keystrokes. In contrast, the Outemu Brown is a tactile switch that, while lacking specific notable descriptions in terms of unique features, is generally favored for its tactile feedback, which can enhance the typing experience for users who appreciate a distinctive bump at the actuation point, aiding in typing accuracy and providing a satisfying feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches boils down to individual preference—while the Gravel is perfect for speed and smoothness, the Brown caters to those who value tactile feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Gravel Linear

Outemu Brown Tactile

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Gravel and the Outemu Brown switches, it is important to note that both share the same composition for their top and bottom housings. Both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This shared characteristic means that both switches are likely to produce a clear and resonant auditory experience, particularly when subjected to RGB lighting due to the translucency of polycarbonate. As a result, users who prioritize sound clarity and visual aesthetics will find these switches similar in performance, ensuring a vibrant RGB display along with a heightened sound clarity.

In contrast, the bottom housing of both switches is made from nylon, a material known for its softer properties and ability to absorb sound. This similarity in the bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile regardless of the top housing. The nylon's capacity to dampen vibrations results in a duller and rounder sound when the key is bottomed out, which can enhance the typing experience by providing a more subdued auditory feedback. Given that the bottom housing has a significant influence on the feel and sound upon keybottom, users may find that both switches maintain a similar overall aural experience by balancing the sharper tones from the polycarbonate top with the warm undertones provided by the nylon bottom.

Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate tops and nylon bottoms in the HMX Gravel and Outemu Brown switches leads to a cohesive sound profile that leverages the strengths of both materials. While the polycarbonate enhances clarity and resonation, the nylon provides depth and warmth. Because they share these characteristics, users can expect a comparable typing experience across both switches. This similarity enables users to select between them based on preference for tactile feedback or aesthetic appeal while remaining assured of achieving similar results regarding sound and performance.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Gravel switch features a relatively light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer extended typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Outemu Brown switch has a stronger actuation force of 53 grams, along with a bottom out force of 65 grams, indicating a more substantial typing experience preferred by users who enjoy a firmer push feel. Thus, the Gravel switch is lighter than the Brown switch, accommodating users seeking comfort during prolonged use, whereas the Brown switch caters to those who appreciate a heavier key feel for feedback while typing.

Travel distance

The travel distances of the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch differ notably, with the Gravel measuring at 3.5 mm and the Brown at a more traditional 4 mm. This means that the Gravel has a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers or those seeking faster response times. In contrast, the Brown's longer travel distance can provide a more pronounced tactile feedback, making it preferable for users who enjoy a deeper keypress. While both switches serve distinct preferences, the HMX Gravel's shorter distance may feel more abrupt to some, while the Outemu Brown's depth might be more satisfying for those who appreciate a noticeable actuation point. Ultimately, if users prioritize quickness and responsiveness, they might lean towards the Gravel, whereas the Brown caters to those who appreciate a more substantial feel when typing.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the HMX Gravel linear switch is typically characterized by its quiet operation. This makes it an excellent option for environments where noise might be a concern, such as shared workspaces or late-night typing sessions. Its smooth travel contributes to a subdued auditory profile, although specific sound characteristics can vary based on the keyboard construction and keycap material used. In contrast, the Outemu Brown tactile switch produces a slightly more pronounced sound due to its tactile bump, which provides an audible feedback during actuation. However, both switches can still be quite muted compared to clicky switch variants, making them suitable for users seeking a less disruptive gaming or typing experience.

In terms of feel, the HMX Gravel switch shines with its exceptional smoothness and light actuation force, creating a typing experience that feels fluid and responsive. The linear nature of Gravel switches means there is no tactile feedback until the key is fully pressed, making the entire keypress feel undisturbed and consistent. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown switch provides a tactile bump at the actuation point, allowing users to feel when a key has registered without looking. This tactile feedback can be beneficial for typists who prefer a more pronounced indication of their keypress, though it may feel less smooth compared to the Gravel switches.

In summary, while both the HMX Gravel and Outemu Brown switches cater to different preferences, they each offer unique qualities worth considering. The Gravel excels in delivering a smooth, quiet typing experience, making it a great choice for those who prioritize fluidity in their keystrokes. Conversely, the Brown switch stands out with its tactile feedback, appealing to users who appreciate a more engaged typing sensation. Depending on your typing style and environment, you’ll derive satisfaction from either choice, as both switches are adept at providing a quality experience tailored to their respective characteristics.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you prioritize a light and smooth typing experience, the HMX Gravel switches are an excellent choice. Their 50-gram actuation force makes them responsive and ideal for fast typists or gamers who prefer a gentle touch, allowing for quick keystrokes without the fatigue that can come from heavier switches. On the other hand, if you enjoy tactile feedback and a more substantial feel when typing, the Outemu Brown switches, with their 65-gram bottom out force, may be more suitable for you. Their medium-heavy actuation provides a satisfying resistance that can help ground your typing experience, making them great for both general typing and gaming where you want to feel each keystroke distinctly. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you find smoothness or tactile feedback more appealing, as both switches offer unique benefits tailored to different styles of keyboard use.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Gravel Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Brown Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more