HMX Gravel vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the HMX Gravel and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, choosing the right switch can significantly influence your typing experience, and two popular options are the HMX Gravel and Outemu Tom. The HMX Gravel is a linear switch renowned for its exceptional smoothness and refined feel, designed to provide a responsive yet effortless typing experience with a medium-light actuation force that leans towards the lighter side. This makes it an ideal choice for those who favor speed and fluidity in their keystrokes, perfect for gamers and fast typists alike. In contrast, the Outemu Tom, as a tactile switch, offers a distinctly different experience with its tactile feedback that allows users to feel a noticeable bump at the actuation point. This feature is particularly appealing to typists who enjoy the sensation of each keystroke and prefer a more deliberate typing rhythm. While both switches cater to different preferences—smooth, linear action vs. tactile feedback—they each serve a unique purpose for various types of users. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
The HMX Gravel and the Outemu Tom switches both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a remarkably similar auditory profile. This material choice ensures that both switches produce a sharper, higher-pitched sound that is distinct and resonant. Polycarbonate's inherent stiffness contributes significantly to this clarity, allowing for a crisp performance that is further enhanced when RGB lighting is used. The translucency of polycarbonate not only elevates the switches' aesthetic appeal but also accentuates the dynamic lighting effects, making both switches excellent choices for users who enjoy visual displays alongside auditory feedback.
In contrast, the Gravel and the Tom feature nylon as the material for their bottom housings, which serves to create a markedly different sound profile compared to the top. Nylon's softer characteristics result in a deeper, fuller sound due to its ability to absorb sound more effectively than the stiffer polycarbonate. As a classic switch housing material, nylon ensures a rounder auditory experience, making it suited for users who appreciate a more muted operational sound. While both switches share the same nylon bottom housing material, the impact on the overall typing feel and sound is distinct: the bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out feel during key presses, delivering a softer response compared to the sharper top.
When considering the combined effect of both housing materials in each switch, it becomes evident that the HMX Gravel and the Outemu Tom produce a hybrid sound experience. The polycarbonate top housing contributes a bright and crisp sound when keys are released, while the nylon bottom housing offers a deep and rounded sound at the moment of bottoming out. Consequently, although both switches utilize the same materials for their respective housings, the unique properties of polycarbonate and nylon blend to create a comprehensive typing feedback experience that harmonizes clarity and depth, making each switch appealing for different user preferences.
Weight
The HMX Gravel linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch present a notable contrast in their actuation forces. The Gravel's actuation force is a relatively light 45 grams, making it a comfortable choice for prolonged typing sessions or long gaming durations, as it reduces strain on the fingers. In contrast, the Outemu Tom switches require a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial typing feel. While the Gravel's bottom out force is measured at 50 grams, the bottom out force for the Tom switch remains unknown, leaving a gap in comparability. Overall, those seeking a lighter and more effortless typing experience would gravitate towards the HMX Gravel, while the Outemu Tom caters to those who favor a firmer push when registering keystrokes.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, we find that the Gravel has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Tom measures slightly less at 3.3 mm. This makes the Gravel the longer option, providing a deeper feel when pressed compared to the Tom. Those who favor a more responsive switch might lean towards the Tom due to its shorter travel distance, which typically offers quicker actuation times, making it ideal for gaming. Conversely, if a hearty depth and a more pronounced keystroke are preferred, the Gravel would be the better choice, allowing for a more satisfying typing experience. Overall, the difference in travel distances could influence user preference significantly based on individual typing and gaming styles.
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 Tom 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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Gravel linear switch is known for its minimalistic and muted acoustic profile, allowing for a quieter typing experience that emphasizes the smoothness of each keystroke. This is particularly appealing for users who work in quiet environments or prefer a less intrusive sound while gaming or typing. In contrast, the Outemu Tom tactile switch has an undefined sound profile, making it unclear how it compares in terms of audible feedback. However, it’s essential to note that sound characteristics can be significantly influenced by the type of keyboard frame and keycaps used, potentially bridging some gaps between the two switches.
Focusing on the feel, the Gravel switch shines with its remarkably smooth actuation, delivering a delightful, effortless sensation when typing. Its medium-light actuation force is tailored for those who appreciate a responsive typing experience without straining their fingers. The tactile nature of the Tom switch, though not explicitly detailed, typically suggests some level of bump at the actuation point, which may provide a different typing experience that some users might prefer. However, without specific details on the Tom’s feel, a comprehensive comparison isn't possible.
In summary, the HMX Gravel linear switch offers a well-rounded experience characterized by a smooth feel and a quiet sound, making it suitable for a variety of settings. While the Outemu Tom tactile switch lacks detailed attributes, its tactile nature may appeal to those who enjoy a pronounced feedback feel while typing. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences, and users can expect a satisfying experience from either choice, especially when combined with suitable keycaps and keyboard construction.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the HMX Gravel linear switch or the Outemu Tom tactile switch, it’s essential to align your preference with the typing experience you desire. If you prioritize a smooth and quiet typing experience, the Gravel switch is an excellent choice. Its medium-light actuation force of 50 grams ensures a responsive feel, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming, where you need fast and precise keystrokes without excessive effort. Furthermore, the Gravel switch excels in providing that refined, buttery-smooth action, which many keyboard enthusiasts crave. Conversely, if you are someone who enjoys tactile feedback while typing, the Outemu Tom switch could be more suitable for you. Tactile switches tend to offer a noticeable bump at the actuation point, which can enhance your typing accuracy and provide a satisfying experience, especially for typists who prefer to feel their keystrokes. In conclusion, choose the Gravel for a smoother, lighter touch and a quieter environment, while opting for the Tom if you value tactile feedback and a more pronounced typing experience.
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