HMX Gravel vs. HMX Sunset Gleam

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Gravel and HMX Sunset Gleam present two compelling options for enthusiasts seeking a linear switch experience. The HMX Gravel is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness and refined typing feel, featuring a medium-light actuation force that leans slightly towards the lighter side. This responsiveness makes it an excellent choice for users who prioritize effortless typing and comfort during long sessions. On the other hand, the HMX Sunset Gleam, or Duck Duck switch, stands out with its unique combination of materials that delivers a subtle top-out and satisfying clack, enhanced by the high-quality factory lubrication HMX is renowned for. While the Gravel focuses on providing a smooth and cushioned typing experience, the Sunset Gleam offers a bit more auditory feedback, appealing to those who enjoy a tactile element. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for your typing needs.

By the numbers

HMX Gravel Linear

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the HMX Gravel and the HMX Sunset Gleam, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This similarity leads to a consistent auditory experience characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The specific properties of polycarbonate, which is known for its rigidity and translucency, ensure that both switches deliver clear and resonant sound qualities, particularly when featuring RGB lighting. Therefore, whether one opts for the Gravel or the Sunset Gleam, the acoustical performance in terms of sound clarity remains a common thread due to the shared material of the top housing.

Conversely, the bottom housing of both switches diverges, with the Gravel and Sunset Gleam employing nylon, another classic material in switch design. This choice results in a deeper and fuller sound profile that contrasts with the sharper notes produced by the polycarbonate top housing. Since nylon is a softer plastic, it tends to absorb sound more, yielding a duller and rounder auditory response. Thus, while the top housing provides clarity and brightness, the bottom housing of both models contributes warmth and depth to the overall sound. This means that when pressed, users will experience a hybrid auditory effect, where the nylon significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel distinctively across both switches.

Ultimately, despite sharing similar materials for the top housing, which grants both switches comparable sound clarity, the difference in bottom housing material allows for tonal variations between the HMX Gravel and the HMX Sunset Gleam. This combination of polycarbonate and nylon creates a balanced auditory experience—sharp yet warm—across both models. Therefore, while one can expect a clear and resonant sound from the top of each switch, the presence of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that each model offers unique tactile feedback and a fuller auditory response when typing, leading to a satisfying overall experience whether one opts for the Gravel or the Sunset Gleam.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Gravel linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, both offer a light typing experience, but there are subtle differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Gravel features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Sunset Gleam has a slightly lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This means the Sunset Gleam requires less force to actuate, making it easier to type for extended periods, which could be advantageous for users who prioritize comfort during long sessions at work or gaming. Conversely, the Gravel, while still light, provides a marginally heavier push feel, which some typists may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, both switches are relatively light, but the Sunset Gleam is the lighter option with a lower actuation and bottom out force compared to the Gravel.

Travel distance

Both the HMX Gravel linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch feature identical travel distances of 3.5 mm. This means that when you press down on a key that uses either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel from the top to the bottom, resulting in a similar tactile response. Since their travel distances are equal, users can expect comparable performance in terms of key actuation and feel, regardless of which switch they choose.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to the sound profile, the HMX Gravel linear switch is designed for a subtly quieter experience, making it suitable for those who prefer minimal noise while typing. The smoothness of the switch pairs well with a dampened sound, creating an unobtrusive auditory feedback that's ideal for office settings or quieter environments. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, known as the Duck Duck switch, offers a more pronounced auditory quality with a satisfying clack at the top-out, contributing to a fun and engaging typing experience. This sound can create a more tactile response for those who enjoy a bit more character in their keystrokes. Ultimately, your choice of keyboard and keycaps will significantly influence the overall sound signature of both switches, making them versatile in different setups.

In terms of feel, the HMX Gravel is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness and refined typing quality. With a medium-light actuation force that leans toward the lighter side, users can experience a responsive and effortless typing sensation, making it very enjoyable for extended typing or gaming sessions. The Sunset Gleam, on the other hand, offers a unique blend of materials that contributes to its wonderfully soft landing, providing a subtle yet satisfying feedback. This switch combines the soft feel with a pronounced sensation at the top-out, thanks to its excellent factory lube, making for an overall plush typing experience that caters to those who appreciate a gentle yet tactile response.

In summary, both the HMX Gravel and HMX Sunset Gleam linear switches offer distinct yet enjoyable mechanical experiences. The Gravel’s focus on smoothness and a quieter sound makes it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more subdued typing experience. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam excites with its slightly louder sound and tactile nuances, appealing to users who like a vibrant auditory profile. Depending on your preferences, both switches can deliver high-quality performance, allowing for personalized customizability across different keyboard setups.

Conclusion

To conclude, when choosing between the HMX Gravel and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switches, consider your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prioritize an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience, the Gravel is an optimal choice, particularly if you enjoy a slightly lighter actuation force at 50 grams. This switch is designed for those who appreciate the subtleties of a smooth keystroke without any distraction. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that offers a satisfying sound profile along with that smoothness, the Sunset Gleam might be more to your liking. With its slightly lighter actuation force of 48 grams and unique materials that provide a gentle top-out and engaging clack, it is ideal for users who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. Ultimately, both switches present advantages depending on your typing style: choose the Gravel for simply refined smoothness, or opt for the Sunset Gleam for a textural experience that combines smoothness with satisfying sound.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Gravel Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more