HMX Gravel vs. Outemu Milk Peach

Overview

When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Gravel and the Outemu Milk Peach both offer compelling options, especially for those who prefer linear switches. The HMX Gravel is renowned for its exceptional smoothness and refined typing feel, providing a medium-light actuation force that ensures a responsive and effortless experience. This makes it an excellent choice for typists who prioritize speed and fluidity in their keystrokes. On the other hand, while the Outemu Milk Peach lacks a signature characteristic that distinguishes it in the market, it still serves as a viable option for users who might seek a reliable linear switch for everyday typing or gaming. Each switch caters to slightly different preferences, whether it be the prized smoothness of the Gravel or the straightforward reliability of the Milk Peach. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Gravel Linear

Outemu Milk Peach Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

Both the HMX Gravel and the Outemu Milk Peach switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, leading to similar acoustic properties and aesthetics. The polycarbonate material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, which is a direct result of its relatively stiff nature. This stiffness allows for a clearer and more resonant sound, making both switches excellent choices for users looking for enhanced auditory feedback in their typing experience. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate means both switches can effectively showcase RGB lighting, ensuring that the visual appeal aligns perfectly with the crisp audio output, thereby providing a coherent sensory experience.

In contrast, the bottom housings of both switches are constructed from nylon, a material celebrated for its sound-absorbing properties and ability to create a deeper, fuller sound profile. Nylon's softness leads to a duller and rounder sound compared to the crisper notes produced by polycarbonate, balancing the overall acoustic profile when the switch is actuated. This complementary pairing between the polycarbonate top housing and the nylon bottom housing ensures that users reap the benefits of both worlds: the clear sound during key release from the polycarbonate top and the rounded sound while bottoming out from the nylon bottom. The combination effectively offers a unique tactile feedback and auditory experience across the full range of keystrokes.

While both switches capitalize on distinct materials for their top and bottom housings, the deliberate design choices serve to enhance overall performance in different ways. The polycarbonate top housing is responsible for the piercing sound produced upon release, whereas the nylon bottom adds a pleasant depth to the keypress. This thoughtful separation ensures that the user enjoys a well-rounded experience, making both the Gravel and Milk Peach comparable in their capabilities to deliver an engaging interaction, though the nature of the sounds produced offers distinct auditory qualities that cater to diverse preferences.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Gravel linear switch to the Outemu Milk Peach linear switch, both exhibit an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equal in this aspect. This similar actuation force means users can expect a comparable keystroke trigger feel, ideal for those who prefer lighter switches for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, the bottom out force presents a divergence between the two: the Gravel has a bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating that it requires a slightly heavier pressure to fully engage the key, thus providing a more definitive tactile feedback upon bottoming out. In contrast, the Outemu Milk Peach's bottom out force is unavailable, making direct comparison difficult. Nonetheless, since the Gravel is the only switch with a specified bottom out force, it can be categorized as the heavier option due to its additional 5 grams of pressure needed at full keystroke. Overall, users who favor a more substantial typing experience may lean toward the Gravel switch, while those seeking lighter actuation without a specified bottom feel might consider the Milk Peach.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Outemu Milk Peach linear switch, the Gravel boasts a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Milk Peach offers a shorter distance at 3.3 mm. This means that the Gravel provides a bit more depth in each keystroke, which can be beneficial for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. In contrast, the Milk Peach, with its shorter travel distance, is likely to cater to gamers and users who favor quick response times and rapid actuation. Ultimately, selecting between these two switches will depend on individual preferences; if one prefers a more pronounced keystroke, the Gravel is the better option, whereas those seeking heightened responsiveness may lean towards the Milk Peach.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The HMX Gravel linear switch is well-regarded for its exceptionally smooth operation, which contributes to a quiet and unintrusive sound profile. Users often experience a muted thock when bottoming out, making it suitable for both office environments and gaming setups. In contrast, the Outemu Milk Peach linear switch does not have a defined sound character noted. However, it is essential to recognize that the sound output of any mechanical switch can vary significantly based on factors such as the keyboard frame and the type of keycaps used; thus, both switches could potentially perform similarly if paired with the right components.

When it comes to feel, the Gravel switch shines with a medium-light actuation force that leans toward the lighter side, resulting in a highly responsive typing experience. Its refinement ensures that users enjoy a smooth transition between key presses, further enhancing the overall typing experience. The Milk Peach, while lacking specific details about its feel, shares the common attributes of linear switches, which typically emphasize a smooth travel with no tactile bump. This similarity means that both switches can cater to users who prefer a fluid and uninterrupted keystroke.

In summary, the HMX Gravel is celebrated for its smoothness and refined feel, making it a favorite among keyboard enthusiasts seeking a reliable typing experience. The absence of detailed information about the Outemu Milk Peach leaves some mystery around its qualities, but it is likely to share foundational attributes typical of linear switches. Ultimately, users can expect a generally smooth typing experience from both switches; however, the Gravel may edge out in terms of defined performance due to its established reputation.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Outemu Milk Peach linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you prioritize an exceptionally smooth typing experience with a lighter actuation force, then the HMX Gravel may be the switch for you. Its 50 grams bottom-out force not only makes it easier to type for extended periods without fatigue, but also enhances responsiveness, making it ideal for fast typists or gamers who require quick inputs. On the other hand, if you're looking for something with unique characteristics or specific sound profiles—although details on the Milk Peach's bottom-out force and sound were not provided, understanding its overall feel might make it a better fit for those who value subtle tactile feedback and personal sound preferences in a switch. As a newcomer, consider how frictionless, fluid motion affects your typing experience versus the potential allure of an undisclosed, possibly nuanced tactile engagement that the Milk Peach might deliver. Ultimately, test both switches if possible, and choose the one that resonates best with your typing style and ergonomic needs.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Gravel Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Milk Peach Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more