HMX Gravel vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the HMX Gravel and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Gravel and Gateron Type A present two compelling options for enthusiasts. The HMX Gravel switches are celebrated for their exceptional smoothness and lightweight actuation force, offering a responsive and effortless typing experience that caters to those who prioritize a refined feel. These linear switches strike a balance between speed and comfort, making them an excellent choice for users who often find themselves typing for extended periods. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A switches, part of Sillyworks' "Project Rehash" series, stand out with their medium-weight feel and deeper sound signature. This makes them a great option for those who want a more substantial typing sensation while enjoying a richer auditory experience. Both switches have their unique strengths, and while the Gravel excels in smoothness and lightness, the Type A provides a satisfying depth and medium resistance. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of HMX Gravel and Gateron Type A switches, the most significant distinction lies in the material composition of their top housings. The HMX Gravel features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer structure, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate adds an aesthetic appeal, especially for users who integrate RGB lighting into their keyboards. Conversely, the Gateron Type A utilizes a nylon top housing, a material characterized by its softer properties. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, offering a more rounded acoustic experience during typing. Thus, while the Gravel is suited for those seeking a clear, resonant sound, the Gateron Type A caters to users who prefer a more muted audio feedback.
On the other hand, both the HMX Gravel and Gateron Type A share the same material—nylon—when it comes to their bottom housings. This shared material ensures that both switches produce similarly fuller and deeper sound profiles when typing. The nylon's ability to absorb sound contributes to the bottom-out experience, fostering a more rounded auditory sensation for both switches. Therefore, regardless of the differences in the top housing materials, the bottom housings effectively unify the acoustic qualities of both switches by delivering a consistent sound profile that emphasizes a subtle depth in typing feedback.
In summary, the distinct top housing materials create opportunities for varying sound experiences, while the alignment in bottom housing materials standardizes the auditory outcomes for the bottom-out action for both switches. For a user seeking the brighter and more defined tones offered by the HMX Gravel, the polycarbonate top housing aligns with those auditory preferences. Alternatively, individuals who prefer the richer sound profile from the Gateron Type A will appreciate the warm depth provided by the nylon top housing. Overall, both switches can yield similar results in terms of bottom-out sound due to their shared nylon bottom housing, yet their identities diverge significantly in the auditory experience they deliver when releasing keys.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Gravel linear switch with the Gateron Type A linear switch, we find notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Gravel switch features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for users who seek a light touch for extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Gateron Type A has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, which provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a firmer feel. As a result, the HMX Gravel is better suited for comfort during prolonged use, while the Gateron Type A may appeal to users desiring more resistance in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between these switches hinges on individual preferences for weight and feedback in typing and gaming scenarios.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, it’s clear that the Gravel has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Type A measures 4 mm. This difference means that gamers or users who prioritize rapid response times might prefer the HMX Gravel for its more responsive feel, as it requires less distance to actuate. In contrast, the Gateron Type A, with its longer 4 mm travel distance, may appeal to those who enjoy a more robust typing experience, allowing for a deeper engagement with each keystroke. Therefore, if responsiveness is your goal, the shorter Gravel switch is the better choice, while the Type A might be favored by those seeking a more substantial tactile experience.
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 Gateron Type A comes in at $4.70 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
In terms of sound, the HMX Gravel linear switch delivers an exceptionally smooth typing experience that is relatively quiet, making it suitable for both home and office environments. The Gateron Type A, on the other hand, features a more nuanced sound profile that is characterized as neutral and subdued. This means it produces a moderate sound level when pressed, which is not overly loud but still provides audible feedback. When comparing the two, the Gravel tends to lean towards quiet operation, while the Type A offers a more distinguishable sound signature that falls into the realm of subdued yet present, allowing users to choose between a softer touch and a bit more auditory presence in their typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Gravel switch is renowned for its exceptional smoothness and a medium-light actuation force that leans towards the lighter side. This provides a responsive and effortless typing experience, engendering a satisfying and refined tactile feedback. The Gateron Type A, while also offering a balanced medium actuation force, is designed with the latest factory lubing techniques that enhance its tactile smoothness and consistency. While the Gravel promises a remarkably smooth feel ideal for prolonged typing sessions, the Type A's feel is elevated by its modern engineering, which also aims to deliver smooth operation but may carry a slightly different tactile sensation compared to the Gravel.
In conclusion, both the HMX Gravel and the Gateron Type A linear switches provide distinct auditory and tactile experiences that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Gravel boasts a very smooth, quiet operation, while the Type A offers a more subdued yet definite sound signature alongside a robust feel enhanced by contemporary manufacturing techniques. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will hinge on whether you prioritize a refined, quieter experience or a more balanced sound and feel that adapts well to various settings.
Conclusion
In summary, choosing between the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you prioritize a lightweight feel with a very smooth typing experience, the Gravel switch is ideal. Its lower actuation force of 50 grams enables you to achieve quicker keystrokes with less effort, making it perfect for fast typists or those who enjoy a responsive typing experience. Furthermore, if you're looking for a switch with a sound profile that enhances your typing without being overly pronounced, the Gravel’s characteristics may suit you well. On the other hand, if you're seeking a more balanced option with a medium-light bottom-out force of 55 grams, the Gateron Type A is a great choice. Its deeper sound signature can offer a pleasing auditory feedback, and its subdued noise level makes it suitable for both home and office environments. Additionally, the Type A's blend of moderate actuation force and innovative factory lubing makes it a versatile option for diverse typing styles. Essentially, if you enjoy a smoother and lighter touch, go for the Gravel; if a more balanced and subtly pronounced experience suits you better, the Gateron Type A should be your switch of choice.
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