HMX Gravel vs. Outemu Dustproof Black
An in-depth look at the HMX Gravel and the Outemu Dustproof Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing options that cater to their typing preferences and gaming needs. The HMX Gravel switch is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness and refined typing feel, making it a fantastic choice for those who value a responsive and effortless experience. With a medium-light actuation force that leans towards the lighter side, Gravel switches can enhance productivity by reducing typing fatigue during extended use. On the other hand, while the Outemu Dustproof Black switch lacks specific standout features, it is designed with durability in mind, offering a robust typing experience that can withstand the rigors of gaming and typing alike. Both options cater to linear switch enthusiasts seeking smooth keystrokes, yet they serve distinct purposes that reflect different priorities. 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
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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 the Outemu Dustproof Black switches, it's notable that both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. The shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing results in a distinctly sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. This is due to polycarbonate's inherent stiffness, which allows sound waves to resonate more clearly. Additionally, because polycarbonate is translucent, both switches are well-suited for RGB lighting applications, enhancing their visual appeal without compromising sound quality. Therefore, despite any differences in design or feel, users can expect a similar auditory performance when engaging with the top housing of either switch.
The bottom housing of both the Gravel and Dustproof Black switches is made from nylon, a material recognized for its capacity to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This characteristic stems from nylon’s softer composition, which absorbs sound better than its harder counterparts, leading to a more muted and rounded acoustic experience. Consequently, the bottom housing's influence is particularly poignant during actuation and key bottoming out, giving each switch a unique feel during typing. As both switches employ this classic material, users can expect a consistent tactile response and sound quality when pressed, contributing to an overall satisfying typing experience.
In essence, both the HMX Gravel and the Outemu Dustproof Black share similarities in their material composition that directly influence their auditory and tactile properties. The combination of polycarbonate for clarity and nylon for warmth means that users can enjoy a well-rounded typing experience with both switches. While their individual designs may lend differing aesthetics or subtle variations in feel, the core sound profiles and responsiveness remain consistent due to their shared material choices. Ultimately, whether one chooses the Gravel or the Dustproof Black, the resulting acoustic and tactile experiences will be similarly pleasing, allowing users to enjoy the benefits of both excellent materials.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Gravel linear switch to the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces are distinct. The HMX Gravel features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it well-suited for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, especially for extended periods or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, catering to individuals who enjoy a more substantial push feel when typing. This considerable difference means that the Gravel switch is inherently lighter, providing an easier typing experience, whereas the Dustproof Black will appeal to those who appreciate a firmer keypress. As a result, users will find that the Gravel is ideal for prolonged use while the Dustproof Black is better for those who favor a more forceful tactile sensation.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, there is a notable difference: the Gravel features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Dustproof Black has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that users of the Gravel switch will experience a slightly more responsive action due to the shorter travel distance, which can be advantageous for gamers seeking quicker response times. On the other hand, the Dustproof Black’s longer 4 mm travel distance may provide a more substantial feel for those who prefer a deeper keystroke, potentially contributing to a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for either responsiveness or depth in key presses.
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 Outemu Dustproof Black comes in at $3.10 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
The sound profile of the HMX Gravel linear switch is refined, offering a muted yet pleasant acoustic experience that emphasizes the smoothness of the keypress. This results in a subdued thock sound that is often preferred in environments where noise is a consideration. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch has an undisclosed sound profile, making it difficult to draw a direct comparison. However, it’s worth noting that the sound can be greatly influenced by the keyboard build and the choice of keycaps, meaning both switches could potentially perform similarly in terms of sound depending on these factors.
When it comes to feel, the Gravel switch excels with its exceptional smoothness and a medium-light actuation force that leans towards the lighter side. This responsiveness creates a typing experience that is both effortless and enjoyable, making it highly suitable for both gaming and typing tasks. The feel of the Dustproof Black switch is unknown, leaving an opportunity for speculation on how it might compare. It’s possible that while both switches may have their unique qualities, the Gravel’s emphasis on a refined typing experience sets a high bar that the Dustproof Black would need to meet.
In conclusion, the HMX Gravel linear switch shines in both sound and feel, providing an overall premium typing experience with its smooth actuation and refined acoustic profile. While the Outemu Dustproof Black switch leaves some questions unanswered, it can still hold its own depending on the specific build and keycap choices made by the user. Ultimately, for those seeking a cohesive and satisfying experience, the Gravel is clearly a standout option, while the Dustproof Black may require further exploration to fully evaluate its potential.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you favor a lighter actuation force and the desire for a smoother typing experience, the HMX Gravel, with its 50-gram bottom out force and exceptional smoothness, would be an excellent choice. This switch is particularly suitable for those who type rapidly or engage in extended gaming sessions, as it minimizes finger fatigue while providing a responsive feel. On the other hand, if you prefer more resistance and a heavier bottom out force, the Outemu Dustproof Black, with its 80-gram actuation, may better suit your typing style. The added heft can offer a more deliberate typing experience, which some users find beneficial for typing accuracy and control. Ultimately, consider how your typing habits align with the characteristics of each switch to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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