HMX Gravel vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the HMX Gravel and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the merits of different options, particularly within the realm of linear switches. The HMX Gravel is renowned for its smoothness and refined typing feel, offering a responsive experience with a medium-light actuation force that leans towards the lighter side, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize effortless typing. In contrast, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch incorporates a unique design that boasts a whisper-quiet topping-out sound paired with a clacky bottom-out, providing a satisfying auditory experience while maintaining a silky smooth feel without being overly polished. While the Gravel excels in delivering a smooth and light typing experience, the Semi-Silent Linear appeals to users who want a blend of quiet performance and snappy feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Gravel and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear both feature polycarbonate top housings, resulting in a similar sound profile characterized by sharpness and clarity. Polycarbonate, known for its stiffness, enhances the resonance of sounds produced by the switches, leading to a higher-pitched and crisper audio experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for effective RGB lighting visualization, making both switches appealing for gamers and enthusiasts who appreciate aesthetic customization. Thus, regardless of differences in other components, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both models ensures that users will enjoy a bright and vivid sound when typing.
In contrast, both the HMX Gravel and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear utilize nylon for their bottom housings, contributing to a distinctively deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic compared to polycarbonate, absorbs sound more effectively, leading to a duller, rounder auditory experience. This characteristic makes the typing sounds produced by these switches markedly different from the sharper tones generated by their polycarbonate tops. Consequently, both switches will provide a unique typographical experience that balances the bright sound of the polycarbonate top with the more muted characteristics of the nylon bottom.
When pressed, the overall auditory experience of both switches will be a result of the interplay between their top and bottom housings. While the nylon bottom significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel—providing that soft, full-bodied lower note—the polycarbonate top will determine the sound produced during key release, culminating in a dynamic that ensures a full range of auditory textures. Ultimately, users can expect similar crisp highs from each switch while also enjoying the deeper undertones afforded by their nylon bases, thus highlighting the interplay of these materials in creating a balanced typing experience.
Weight
The HMX Gravel linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch present distinct characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Gravel switch boasts a light actuation force of 45 grams, coupled with a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for prolonged typing sessions without causing fatigue. In contrast, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an unspecified actuation force but features a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, indicating a firmer resistance when a key is fully pressed down. This heavier bottom out could provide a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a stronger key feel. Overall, the Gravel switch is the lighter option, promoting comfort for long-term use, while the Jwick presents a heavier resistance, catering to those who enjoy a firmer push. Since the actuation force is unknown for the Semi-Silent Linear, we cannot draw direct comparisons between their actuation forces, but if it were to match the Gravel's, users would experience a balanced typing experience between light actuation and a heavier bottom out.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch, we find that the Gravel has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Semi-Silent Linear has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This makes the Gravel the shorter option and the Semi-Silent Linear the longer one. For users who favor quicker response times, the Gravel's shorter travel distance may provide the advantage they seek, especially in fast-paced gaming scenarios. Conversely, those who appreciate a more substantial feel during key presses may prefer the Semi-Silent Linear, which offers a bit more depth with its longer distance. Ultimately, while both switches cater to different preferences, they exemplify the ongoing trend towards shorter travel distances, appealing to a variety of typing styles and user needs.
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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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 comparing the sound qualities of the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch, it becomes evident that they offer distinct auditory experiences. The Gravel's sound profile is not specifically detailed, but it's often perceived as a more standard linear switch sound, likely falling somewhere in between subtle and noticeable, depending on the keyboard build and keycap material used. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear is characterized by its unique hybrid sound signature; it boasts a subdued noise level when the key is topped out, transitioning to a clacky and pronounced sound upon bottoming out. This dual nature allows for a quieter typing experience while still offering auditory feedback, making it suitable for environments where noise may be a concern.
In terms of feel, the Gravel linear switch is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness, providing a refined typing experience with a medium-light actuation force that contributes to an effortless keystroke. This smoothness makes it a favorite among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for a seamless typing experience. In contrast, the Semi-Silent Linear features a range of feel descriptors including mild, snappy, buttery, and polished. The mild nature ensures an approachable typing experience for users of all skill levels, while the snappy response can energize your typing sessions, providing a lively feedback loop. Additionally, the buttery smoothness indicates a refined keystroke that feels effortless, further enhanced by a polished finish that reduces friction. These characteristics collectively create a dynamic typing experience tailored to those who appreciate subtle feedback along with smooth operation.
In conclusion, both the HMX Gravel and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches have their unique strengths, designed to cater to different preferences among keyboard users. The Gravel prioritizes a smooth and refined typing feel, while the Semi-Silent Linear balances subdued sound with a range of tactile experiences. If you’re seeking a linear switch that emphasizes quiet operation with engaging feedback, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear could be your ideal choice. However, if a silky smooth and effortless experience is what you desire, the Gravel may prove to be more gratifying. Ultimately, your choice will depend on which qualities align more closely with your typing style and auditory preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing environment. If you favor a lighter actuation force along with a smooth, responsive typing experience that feels effortless, the HMX Gravel is your best bet. Its 50-gram bottom-out force enhances quick typing sessions while delivering a refined feel, making it ideal for enthusiasts who appreciate a bit of tactile feedback without the weight. On the other hand, if you’re looking for versatility and a quieter option, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch would be more suitable. With a medium actuation force of 62 grams, it strikes a balance between responsiveness and tactile comfort, coupled with its unique semi-silent design that produces less noise during typing. This switch is perfect for office settings or shared spaces where you might want to minimize sound without sacrificing the enjoyment of a clacky bottom-out. Thus, consider your desired typing experience and sound environment carefully when making your selection.
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