HMX Gravel vs. Outemu Dustproof Red

Overview

When comparing the HMX Gravel and Outemu Dustproof Red mechanical keyboard switches, we find two linear switches that cater to different preferences among typists and gamers alike. The HMX Gravel is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness and refined typing feel, providing a medium-light actuation force that offers a responsive and effortless experience, making it a favorite among keyboard enthusiasts seeking a high-quality tactile sensation. In contrast, while the Outemu Dustproof Red may not have specific standout characteristics highlighted, it’s designed to deliver consistent performance, often appreciated for its reliability and durability, particularly in dusty environments. Both switches have their unique appeals: the Gravel for those who prioritize smoothness and refined typing and the Dustproof Red for users looking for a resilient option. 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 Dustproof Red Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

Both the HMX Gravel and Outemu Dustproof Red switches feature polycarbonate top housings, leading to similar acoustic properties in terms of sound profile. The use of polycarbonate, a relatively stiffer plastic, contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when typing. This quality makes both switches highly responsive, amplifying the clarity of keystrokes. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the aesthetic appeal of these switches, particularly when used in configurations with RGB lighting. Users can expect a resonant sound profile that excels in illuminated setups, ensuring both functionality and visual appeal are maximized the same way in both switches.

In contrast, while the top housings of both switches are made from polycarbonate, they share the nylon material for the bottom housing, which fundamentally alters their auditory characteristics. Nylon is known for its softer texture, which absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. This absorption leads to a deeper, fuller sound that contrasts the upper, sharper tones created by the polycarbonate. The synergy between the stiffer top housing and the softer bottom housing creates a balanced typing experience. With both switches utilizing nylon for the bottom, users can expect a consistent, rounded sound profile when the keys are bottomed out, contributing significantly to how each switch feels during use.

Overall, although the HMX Gravel and Outemu Dustproof Red utilize different housing materials in their top and bottom configurations, they possess a harmonious interplay of acoustic qualities. The stiffer polycarbonate top contributes to clarity and resonance, while the softer nylon bottom enhances depth and richness, ensuring a rounded and immersive typing experience. Since both switches employ the same materials for their top and bottom housing, the resulting aural and tactile sensations will yield similar results, allowing users to enjoy a distinct but consistently engaging experience regardless of which switch they choose.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, both exhibit an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equivalent in the pressure required to register a keystroke. However, the bottom out forces differ, with the Gravel switch reaching 50 grams while the Dustproof Red has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that while both switches provide a similarly light typing experience in terms of actuation, the Gravel switch allows for a lighter overall feel when bottoming out. The difference in bottom out force may appeal to users seeking a more substantial typing experience, as the Dustproof Red offers a firmer resistance when the key is fully pressed down. Overall, the HMX Gravel switch is the lighter option, making it more suitable for prolonged typing or gaming sessions, while the Outemu Dustproof Red switch caters to those who prefer a heftier feel in their keystrokes.

Travel distance

The HMX Gravel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it shorter than the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, which features a travel distance of 4 mm. This difference in travel distance reflects varying preferences among users; the Gravel's shorter travel may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times, while the Dustproof Red's more traditional 4 mm distance could be preferable for those who appreciate a more profound and deliberate keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preference for responsiveness versus depth, with the HMX Gravel offering a more rapid actuation compared to the longer Outemu Dustproof Red.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the HMX Gravel linear switch is characterized by its refined auditory profile, offering a subtle and soft sound during keypresses that enhances the typing experience without being distracting. Conversely, the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch does not have a specified sound profile; however, since it is also a linear switch, one can expect a similar muted sound characteristic that might result in a fairly quiet typing experience. Generally, both switches are likely to produce minimal noise compared to tactile or clicky switches, allowing for a quieter workspace.

In terms of feel, the HMX Gravel linear switch excels with its exceptionally smooth and refined action, providing a medium-light actuation force that contributes to a responsive and effortless typing experience. The feeling is tailored for those who appreciate a seamless keypress without any bump or resistance. The Outemu Dustproof Red switch, while lacking specific descriptions of its feel, shares the linear switch design, suggesting it would also provide a smooth actuation without the tactile bump. Therefore, both switches should deliver a comparable feel, with slight variations based on individual preferences and the overall keyboard setup.

In summary, both the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch cater to those who seek a smooth and quiet typing experience. While the Gravel offers a more detailed quality in terms of both sound and feel, the Dustproof Red linear switch is expected to provide a similar experience due to its linear nature. Ultimately, both switches promise to deliver the responsive and effortless typing experience that mechanical keyboard enthusiasts look for, making them both solid options in their respective categories.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, you'll want to consider both your typing preferences and how you intend to use your keyboard. If you appreciate a lighter touch and prioritize smoothness in your typing experience, then the Gravel's 50-gram bottom-out force will serve you well. Its refined feel makes it an excellent choice for extended typing sessions or gaming where quick responsiveness is key. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly more deliberate keystroke or find comfort in a bit more resistance, the Dustproof Red’s 60-gram bottom-out force may be the better fit. While both switches offer linear characteristics, the choice ultimately comes down to your tactile and auditory preferences. If sound and feel details are crucial to you, although the Gravel switch excels in smoothness, the Outemu Dustproof Red may still satisfy with its more traditional linear typing experience. Thus, evaluating your own typing habits and desired tactile feedback will help you make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Gravel Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Dustproof Red Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more