HMX Gravel vs. Outemu Silver

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Gravel and Outemu Silver provide distinct yet appealing options for users seeking a premium typing experience. The HMX Gravel switches are celebrated for their exceptional smoothness and refined feel, making them a top choice for enthusiasts who prioritize a light touch and responsiveness. With a medium-light actuation force, these switches deliver an effortlessly smooth typing experience that enhances both productivity and comfort. On the other hand, while the Outemu Silver switches may not have a specific standout feature, they are often praised for their consistent performance and value, catering to gamers and typists who seek reliable linear action without the frills. Both switches cater to linear enthusiasts but serve slightly different preferences in terms of actuation force and tactile feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Gravel Linear

Outemu Silver Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX Gravel and Outemu Silver switches share a commonality in their top housing materials, both utilizing polycarbonate. This material choice is integral to producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. The inherent stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a more resonant sound, which is particularly beneficial in switch designs intended for RGB lighting. Since both switches feature clear polycarbonate top housings, they capitalize on the material's translucency to enhance the visual appeal when illuminated. Thus, users can expect a similarly bright and defined auditory feedback from both switches due to the identical upper housing composition.

Contrasting the top housings, the bottom housings of the Gravel and Silver switches are both made from nylon. This classic material is known for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile, which is especially pronounced when typing. The softer nature of nylon allows for a sound that is more rounded and less piercing than that produced by harder materials. As the bottom housing significantly influences the overall feedback felt by the user, both the Gravel and Silver switches deliver a satisfying tactile experience characterized by this plush acoustic quality. Consequently, whether using the Gravel or Silver, the typing experience is enriched by the nylon bottom housing's comforting sound absorption.

Overall, while the HMX Gravel and Outemu Silver share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing, the difference in sonic qualities is mitigated by the nylon material in their respective bottom housings. The interactions between these materials highlight a balance: the crispness of the polycarbonate complements the depth provided by the nylon. This interplay allows both switches to deliver a distinct auditory feedback across the pressing and releasing dynamic of keystrokes, resulting in a nuanced and satisfying typing experience. Users can expect each switch to offer a unique character, yet comparable overall performance due to their thoughtful material design.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, several noteworthy distinctions emerge. Both switches share the same actuation force of 45 grams, which provides a consistent typing experience, allowing for relatively easy keystrokes. However, the bottom out forces differ significantly; the Gravel switch has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Silver switch has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that while both switches require the same initial effort to register a keystroke, the Outemu Silver provides a more substantial feel at the bottom, which could cater to users who prefer a firmer typing experience. Consequently, the Gravel switch is generally lighter overall, making it ideal for prolonged typing or gaming sessions, while the Silver switch's heavier bottom out force may appeal to those who enjoy a more forceful response during use. Thus, individuals can choose based on their preference for lightness versus a stronger push feel.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, a notable difference stands out. The Gravel features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Silver has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that if you're seeking a quicker response time, the Gravel's shorter distance may appeal to gamers who prefer a more responsive feel. On the other hand, the Silver's longer travel distance may suit those who enjoy a more substantial key press, providing a deeper and potentially more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference: the Gravel is the shorter option, offering a snappier response, whereas the Silver, with its longer travel distance, offers a more pronounced key travel that some typists may find preferable.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the HMX Gravel linear switch is known for its refined auditory profile, producing a subtle and pleasant sound that many users find satisfying during typing. The switch's construction contributes to a quieter keystroke compared to more tactile options, making it ideal for those who prefer a stealthier experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver linear switch does not have specific sound characteristics highlighted in available information; thus, it can be inferred that its sound profile may be similar to other linear switches or varies widely depending on the keyboard frame and keycap choice.

In the realm of feel, the HMX Gravel is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness and light actuation force, delivering a comfortable and responsive typing experience. This combination allows for rapid keystrokes with minimal fatigue, making it a favorite among typists and gamers alike. Meanwhile, information about the feel of the Outemu Silver linear switch is absent, making it difficult to draw direct comparisons. However, it can be assumed that it, too, offers a standard linear experience, albeit without the trademark smoothness touted by the Gravel.

In conclusion, while the HMX Gravel linear switch is praised for its smooth feel and pleasant sound, the Outemu Silver linear switch lacks specific details regarding its sound and feel. If you're looking for a consistent typing experience, opting for the Gravel will likely provide you with a more defined and enjoyable sensation. Without explicit descriptions of the Silver's qualities, it’s hard to say if it will meet or match the elevated experience offered by the Gravel, but it can still provide a functional experience as a linear switch.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, it's essential to consider your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you prefer a lighter bottom-out force for a more responsive and effortless typing experience, the Gravel's 50-gram actuation is ideal, especially if you're focused on smoothness and a refined feel. This makes it an excellent choice for extended typing sessions or gaming where rapid key presses are frequent, allowing for less finger fatigue over time. On the other hand, if you like a bit more resistance and prefer a medium-heavy tactile experience, the 65-gram bottom out force of the Silver might be more to your liking. This switch can offer a satisfying feedback that some users find reassuring, making it suitable for users who enjoy a more deliberate typing style or those who type at greater speeds and require more control. Ultimately, your choice should align with whether you value a lightweight, smooth experience or a firmer, more deliberate key feel.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Gravel Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Silver Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more