HMX Gravel vs. Bsun Tuzi (Bunny)
An in-depth look at the HMX Gravel and the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, two notable options stand out: the HMX Gravel and the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny). The HMX Gravel, celebrated for its exceptional smoothness and refined typing feel, provides a medium-light actuation force that leans towards a lighter touch, leading to a responsive and effortless typing experience. This makes it an ideal choice for those who prioritize speed and comfort during long typing sessions. On the other hand, the Tuzi (Bunny) features a modified LY stem designed to create a delightful blend of clackiness and smoothness, thanks to its unique PC top and PA bottom. This switch appeals to users who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback while still benefiting from a refined typing experience. Both switches boast different characteristics that cater to varied preferences; while the Gravel leans into a smooth and light experience, the Tuzi excels in delivering high-pitched clacks with a silky touch. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
42g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Gravel and the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) share remarkable similarities, particularly in their top and bottom housing materials. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, which imparts a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This characteristic is further enhanced by the translucency of polycarbonate, making it particularly appealing for users who wish to showcase RGB lighting effects. With both switches featuring identical top housing materials, users can expect a similar auditory experience during each keystroke, with bright and clear sound reflecting the high-quality performance associated with polycarbonate.
In contrast, the bottom housing of both switches employs nylon, a classic material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Unlike polycarbonate, nylon’s softer composition allows it to absorb sound more effectively, contributing to a duller and rounder auditory output. While the top housing defines the sound profile when releasing a key, the impact of the bottom housing becomes more apparent during the bottom-out phase. Therefore, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in both switches creates a balanced auditory experience, allowing users to enjoy the clarity associated with the polycarbonate top while also benefiting from the richer, more muted sound provided by the nylon bottom.
Although the auditory profiles of the HMX Gravel and the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) are shaped largely by their respective housing materials, the unique combination of these materials results in a distinct feel and sound. Since both switches utilize the same polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom, users can expect a consistent experience across their usage, whether they choose one model over the other. Ultimately, the similarities in their material compositions promise comparable performance, allowing users to enjoy a blend of high-pitched clarity and rich depth regardless of their choice, thus highlighting the strengths of both designs.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) linear switch, we find distinct differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The HMX Gravel features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) offers a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 42 grams. This means that the Tuzi (Bunny) switch provides a softer feel when actuating and bottoming out, making it more suitable for users who prefer lighter switches for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Gravel's heavier forces may appeal to those seeking a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the Gravel switch is the heavier option, while the Tuzi (Bunny) is lighter, providing different tactile experiences depending on user preference.
Travel distance
The HMX Gravel linear switch and the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) linear switch exhibit slight differences in travel distance, with the Gravel measuring 3.5 mm and the Tuzi at 3.6 mm. This makes the Gravel the shorter option and the Tuzi the longer one by 0.1 mm. For users who favor responsiveness, the smoother feedback and quicker actuation of the Gravel may suit them well, while the Tuzi's longer travel distance could appeal to those who appreciate a more pronounced keypress. Although both switches fall within the modern trend of shorter travel distances, the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference regarding actuation feel, with the Gravel providing a snappier experience compared to the slightly deeper Tuzi.
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 Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Tuzi (Bunny) for $3.49.
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 recognized for its exceptionally smooth operation, contributing to a quiet and unobtrusive typing experience. In contrast, the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) switch is characterized by its clackiness, producing a crisp, high-pitched sound that many typists find pleasing. The sharp and percussive tones of the Tuzi (Bunny) create an engaging auditory feedback that some users prefer, especially in environments where they can enjoy the acoustics of their typing. However, it's important to note that the sound profile of both switches can vary depending on the keyboard design and keycap materials, so factors beyond the switches themselves might influence the final sound output.
In terms of feel, the HMX Gravel excels with its refined and smooth typing sensation, achieved through a medium-light actuation force that enhances responsiveness. Users can expect a fluid typing experience that minimizes resistance, making long typing sessions comfortable and enjoyable. On the other hand, the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) offers a silky feel, which also focuses on smoothness but emphasizes the reduction of resistance even further. This results in a seamless transition between key presses, appealing to those who prioritize a velvety tactile response alongside their typing.
Overall, both the HMX Gravel and Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) switches provide unique advantages in sound and feel that cater to different typing preferences. While the Gravel emphasizes smoothness and quiet operation, the Tuzi (Bunny) delivers an engaging auditory experience with its clacky sound and silky touch. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on what aspects are more important to the user—be it auditory feedback or the refined typing feel—allowing enthusiasts to select a switch that aligns with their personal preferences for an optimal mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Gravel and the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you prefer a slightly heavier feel with a smooth and refined typing experience, the HMX Gravel, with its 50g bottom out force, could be the ideal choice for you. Its smoothness enhances the typing experience, making it engaging for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. However, if you lean towards a lighter switch and enjoy a more clacky sound profile, the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny), with its 42g bottom out force, may suit your style better. Not only does it deliver a crisp and bright sound, but its silky feel creates effortless key presses that can significantly enhance your typing rhythm. Ultimately, consider your priorities: whether it’s a smooth and slightly heavier experience or a light and clacky typing feel. Both switches cater to different preferences, so choose the one that resonates best with your style and enhances your overall mechanical keyboard experience.
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