HMX Hibiscus vs. Bsun Hutt
An in-depth look at the HMX Hibiscus and the Bsun Hutt 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 unique characteristics of different options. The HMX Hibiscus switch, celebrated for its ultra-light actuation force and exceptional smoothness, offers a pristine typing experience that caters to those who value speed and fluidity in their keystrokes. Its satisfyingly clacky and poppy sound signature adds an auditory delight for users who enjoy a lively typing atmosphere. On the other hand, the Bsun Hutt switch stands out with its medium-heavy spring and a pronounced tactile bump, making it a fantastic choice for those who appreciate a more engaging and tactile feedback while typing. The Hutt's balanced sound profile complements its invigorating feel, appealing to users who prefer a sharp and resonant response with each keystroke. Each switch caters to different preferences—whether you desire a smooth, whisper-like experience with the Hibiscus or a tactile, snappy interaction with the Hutt. 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
42g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
49g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T3
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
20.5mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The HMX Hibiscus and Bsun Hutt keyboards showcase distinct approaches to the materials utilized in their switch housings, particularly at the top. The Hibiscus employs nylon for its top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer plastic properties tend to absorb sound, creating a result that is duller and rounder. This characteristic can enhance the tactile experience of typing by providing a muted auditory feedback that some users find comforting. In contrast, the Hutt utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate allows for a more resonant sound, thus appealing to users who prefer a lively and vibrant auditory feedback when typing.
When examining the bottom housings of both switches, there is a notable similarity; both the Hibiscus and Hutt utilize nylon. This creates an opportunity for a consistent auditory experience at the bottom level across both keyboards. The use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that both switches elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile when a key is bottomed out. This quality resonates with users looking for a plush feel and sound when keys are engaged. However, unlike the top housings, the bottom housing stays consistent in feel and sound across both models, solidifying nylon's role in shaping the overall typing experience.
Ultimately, the combination of different materials in the top and bottom housings of these switches leads to unique yet complementary sound profiles. In the Hibiscus, the nylon top and bottom housing work in tandem to deliver a muffled, softer auditory experience, while in the Hutt, the polycarbonate top and nylon bottom produce a sharper sound when keys are released and a rounder sound when pressed down. This blending of materials allows users to enjoy a distinct sound profile that reflects their preferences, ultimately leading to enjoyable typing experiences regardless of the model chosen.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Bsun Hutt tactile switch, both exhibit relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, catering to users who prefer a more effortless typing experience. The Hibiscus has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Hutt features a slightly lighter actuation force at 40 grams, but a heavier bottom out force of 49 grams. This means that the Hutt switch requires a touch less force to register a keystroke, but firm pressure is necessary to fully press it down compared to the Hibiscus. Consequently, for users prioritizing lighter switches for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Hutt may be favored due to its lower actuation force. However, the Hibiscus might appeal more to those who enjoy a touch more resistance during typing, providing a balanced feel overall. Ultimately, while both switches are light, the differences in their bottom out forces create a distinct typing experience, with the Hutt being marginally lighter in actuation force and the Hibiscus pairing a lighter feel with a softer bottom out.
Travel distance
Both the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Bsun Hutt tactile switch have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel, resulting in a similar tactile response and feel during use. Because of this matching travel distance, users can expect consistent performance and feedback whether they choose the Hibiscus or the Hutt.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Hibiscus has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hibiscus for $2.99.
The Bsun Hutt has an MSRP of $6.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hutt for $5.39.
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 Hibiscus linear switch produces a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. This engaging auditory profile enhances the overall typing experience, making it feel lively and dynamic. In contrast, the Bsun Hutt tactile switch is noted for its resonant sound, delivering a higher-pitched sound profile that is clean and sharp. This characteristic lends an immersive auditory experience, making each key press feel distinct and enhancing the overall enjoyment of typing. While both switches offer enjoyable sound profiles, the Hibiscus delivers a more varied and crisp sound, whereas the Hutt has a more focused, resonant quality.
In terms of feel, the HMX Hibiscus switch is celebrated for its unparalleled smoothness, providing a glide that is favored by many typing enthusiasts. Unfortunately, the exact feel description of the Hibiscus is not fully detailed. The Bsun Hutt switch, however, is rich in tactile feedback, featuring a prominent tactile bump that provides a distinct tactile sensation with each key press. The medium-heavy spring offers a snappy and invigorating typing experience, allowing for a responsive feel that enhances engagement. The tactile feedback is described as sharp, providing an accentuated response that creates a satisfying interaction with the switch. This pronounced tactility contrasts with the silky smoothness of the Hibiscus, appealing to those who enjoy a noticeable feedback with each keystroke.
In conclusion, while the HMX Hibiscus switch is favored for its ultra-smooth actuation and crisp sound, the Bsun Hutt tactile switch provides a valuable alternative with prominent tactile feedback and a clean, resonant sound. For those who appreciate an immersive and responsive experience, the Hutt offers a snappy and invigorating typing sensation. Ultimately, if you're seeking a smooth and lively typing experience, the Hibiscus may be the better choice, whereas the Hutt excels in providing tactile satisfaction and distinct auditory feedback. Both switches cater to different preferences, making them compelling options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Bsun Hutt tactile switch, your preferences and typing style will play a crucial role. If you value a silky-smooth typing experience along with a light actuation force, the Hibiscus is your go-to option. It excels in providing a fluid feel and a satisfying clacky sound, making it perfect for those who enjoy rapid typing without the bumps associated with tactile switches. This switch truly shines for users who prefer gaming or fast-paced typing where every keystroke feels effortless. On the other hand, if you appreciate a more pronounced tactile feedback that enhances your typing experience, the Hutt is the better choice. Its prominent tactile bump and snappy responsiveness will engage you, giving you that invigorating sensation with every press while maintaining a balanced sound profile. This makes it an ideal option for typists who enjoy feeling each keystroke distinctly and benefit from the reinforced feedback during longer typing sessions. Ultimately, selecting between these two switches comes down to whether you prefer the smoothness of a linear switch or the tactile satisfaction of a tactile switch.
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