HMX Gravel vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the HMX Gravel and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, understanding the nuances between options like the HMX Gravel and SP-Star RedBlue can significantly enhance your typing experience. The HMX Gravel switch is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness and refined feel, providing a responsive typing experience with a medium-light actuation force that ensures effortless keystrokes. This makes it a stellar choice for tactile enthusiasts seeking a satisfying and smooth feedback while typing. In contrast, the SP-Star RedBlue switch offers a similarly appealing medium-light typing experience but is distinctively characterized by its relatively low-pitched sound profile and a thocky, polished feel. This combination caters to users who enjoy a balance of tactile feedback with a quieter operation. Both switches are excellent options for those preferring linear responses, each bringing unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
57g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
When comparing the HMX Gravel and the SP-Star RedBlue switches, both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which contributes to a similar sound profile characterized by sharpness, clarity, and resonance. The polycarbonate material's rigidity allows for a more defined and higher-pitched auditory experience, making it ideal for those who appreciate a crisp sound while typing. Given its translucent nature, this material also supports the aesthetic appeal of RGB lighting, ensuring that the visual effects shine through vibrantly in both switches. Thus, users can expect a similarly pleasing sound and lighting experience from both the Gravel and the RedBlue when they key in.
However, the bottom housing materials diverge significantly, with the Gravel employing nylon and the RedBlue opting for polycarbonate. Nylon is renowned for its softer composition, which contributes to a fuller, deeper sound profile by absorbing more sound and producing a more muted experience. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the RedBlue maintains that sharpness and crispness throughout the entire switch. These differences mean that while both switches may sound impressive when it's time to let go of a key due to their polycarbonate tops, the overall auditory experience when typing will distinctly differ. The Gravel's nylon bottom will produce a rounder, warmer sound, whereas the RedBlue's polycarbonate bottom will reinforce the higher-pitched characteristics.
Ultimately, the interaction between the different housing materials leads to contrasting typing experiences. Pressing keys on the Gravel will showcase the mellow tones from the nylon bottom housing, making it ideal for users who prefer a rich, subdued sound. In comparison, the RedBlue's uniform use of polycarbonate throughout both the top and bottom housings ensures a consistently crisp auditory feedback. Therefore, while both switches may yield similar results in terms of top-end clarity due to their polycarbonate top portions, the overall sound experience will be influenced significantly by the bottom housing material, making each switch suitable for different user preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
The HMX Gravel linear switch features a relatively light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, ideal for prolonged use during work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch presents an unspecified actuation force, but it does have a bottom out force of 57 grams, categorized as medium-light. This means that while the Gravel switch requires less force to achieve a keystroke, the RedBlue switch demands more effort to fully bottom out. Consequently, the HMX Gravel is the lighter option, offering a gentler touch for users who prioritize comfort over substantial feedback, whereas the SP-Star RedBlue, while also less demanding than heavier switches, will deliver a firmer feel during typing. Since actuation force for the RedBlue is unknown, definitive comparisons can't be made there; however, it's clear that the Gravel switch caters more to users looking for a lighter touch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Gravel linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, we find that the Gravel has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the RedBlue measures at 4 mm. This indicates that the Gravel switch is shorter in travel distance, appealing to users who favor faster response times, which is often desirable for gaming. In contrast, the RedBlue, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more substantial and satisfying feel for those who appreciate a deeper keypress. Ultimately, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Gravel would be the preferable choice, while those who enjoy a more pronounced actuation may lean towards the RedBlue.
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 SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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
In terms of sound, the HMX Gravel switch's profile remains unspecified, making it difficult to draw direct comparisons. However, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is known for its low-pitched sound, which tends to produce a bass-heavy and mellow tone. This switch also exhibits a neutral sound, making it versatile enough for various settings, whether at home or in an office environment. Additionally, the RedBlue has a thocky quality, providing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed, reminiscent of a soft "thud." The sound experience with either switch may ultimately be influenced by your choice of keyboard and keycaps.
When considering the feel, the HMX Gravel is reputed for its exceptional smoothness and refined typing experience, highlighted by a medium-light actuation force that makes it both responsive and effortless to type on. In comparison, the RedBlue switches offer a mild typing experience, which can be perceived as gentle. While they share the medium-light force characteristic, the RedBlue also boasts a polished finish that results in reduced friction and a smooth key travel. Both switches cater to those who appreciate a softer touch but bring their own nuances to the experience.
Overall, both the HMX Gravel and SP-Star RedBlue linear switches target users who prefer a medium-light typing experience, promising smoothness and reduced effort. While the sound profiles of the Gravel remain unknown, the RedBlue's rich, low-pitched, thocky signature adds to its appeal. The feel of the Gravel seems to stand out due to its smoothness while the RedBlue offers a gentle and polished experience. Newcomers can expect a comfortable typing experience from either option, but their personal preference for sound and tactile feedback will ultimately guide their choice.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Gravel and SP-Star RedBlue linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prioritize an exceptionally smooth typing experience and prefer a lighter feel, the HMX Gravel switches are an ideal option. Their bottom-out force of 50 grams allows for effortless key presses, making them suitable for extended typing sessions or if you're looking for a switch that reduces finger fatigue. The Gravel switches also offer a refined typing feel, ideal for enthusiasts who enjoy a responsive and smooth interface.
On the other hand, if you favor a typing experience that is not too light yet still comfortably manageable, the SP-Star RedBlue switches are a solid choice. With a medium-light force of 57 grams, these switches deliver a slightly heftier feel, which can provide more tactile feedback without sacrificing comfort. The RedBlue's low-pitched, thocky sound profile makes them versatile for both work and home environments, appealing to users who want a more grounded auditory experience while typing. The mild and polished characteristics of the RedBlue also ensure that they remain approachable for beginners while offering enough satisfaction for seasoned typists. In essence, choose the Gravel for smooth speed and comfort, and opt for the RedBlue for a balanced, moderately weighted experience with delightful sound.
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