HMX Hibiscus vs. Gateron Ink Yellow

Overview

When it comes to the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Hibiscus and Gateron Ink Yellow present fascinating options for enthusiasts seeking distinct typing experiences. The HMX Hibiscus shines with its ultra-light actuation force, making it a standout choice for users prioritizing responsiveness and a delightful sound profile that is both clacky and poppy. Its unique combination of bouncy, feathery characteristics guarantees an enjoyable, almost effortless typing experience. Conversely, the Gateron Ink Yellow caters to those who appreciate a more nuanced experience, with its shorter travel distance providing a familiar feel reminiscent of a laptop keyboard while still retaining the satisfying click and smoothness common among mechanical switches. This switch is ideal for users who want a balanced typing sensation without compromising on a clacky sound signature. Both switches have their distinct advantages, appealing to different preferences and typing styles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Hibiscus Linear

Gateron Ink Yellow Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX Hibiscus and Gateron Ink Yellow switches present a fascinating comparison of their housing materials, particularly in their contribution to sound profiles. The Hibiscus switches are made with a nylon top and bottom housing, a material known for its ability to absorb sound and provide depth to the typing experience. Nylon’s softer characteristics yield a fuller, rounder sound that tends to be less abrasive, resulting in a typing experience that is usually associated with a more muted, pleasant auditory feedback. In contrast, the Ink Yellow switches utilize a proprietary INK blend for both their top and bottom housings, promoting a sharper and more pronounced sound profile. With its pointed and high-pitched nature, the Ink Yellow’s sound is described as clacky, appealing to users who prefer more auditory feedback with each keystroke.

When examining the combination of materials used in these switches, one can observe how the impact of sound is tailored by both the top and bottom housings. In the case of the Hibiscus, the nylon components harmonize to provide a consistent deep sound throughout, enhancing the overall typing experience with a smoother feel when the key bottoms out and when released. Conversely, the Ink Yellow's distinctive INK blend maintains its higher-pitched character, possibly amplifying that clacky sound upon release. This differentiation is crucial, as each aspect of the switch contributes to how it is perceived, with the Hibiscus focusing more on a rounded auditory experience, while the Ink Yellow caters to those seeking a sharp typing feedback.

Despite the different materials, users of both switch types can still achieve similar satisfaction in their typing experience, albeit through different sound profiles. For typists seeking a focused, pronounced sound, the Ink Yellow is a solid choice; however, those who prefer deeper and softer feedback would gravitate towards the Hibiscus. This divergence illustrates how a switch's performance is influenced significantly by its housing materials. Ultimately, the preferences in sound and feel will guide users toward their preferred switch, highlighting the subjective nature of keyboard experiences and the essential role housing materials play in shaping those experiences.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Hibiscus boasts a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a suitable choice for users who prefer a lighter touch, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Ink Yellow features a medium-heavy actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, which offers a more substantial feel that some typists may appreciate for its feedback and resistance. As a result, users seeking a lighter switch will find the Hibiscus more accommodating, while those who prefer a heavier push should lean towards the Ink Yellow. The difference in actuation and bottom out forces illustrates the diverging preferences for tactile feedback and comfort in keyboard use.

Travel distance

Both the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm, meaning they will provide a similar experience when pressing down on the keys. With this equal travel distance, users can expect consistent feedback and feel from both switches, making them comparable in terms of key actuation. Therefore, regardless of which switch is chosen, the result will be a uniform tactile response due to the identical distance each switch travels from the top to the bottom.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Hibiscus linear switch offers a distinctively clacky auditory experience that is sharp, bright, and percussive with each keystroke. This lively sound signature is characterized by its satisfying crispness, making it stand out among similar switches. Conversely, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch also possesses a clacky quality, delivering a similarly snappy sound when pressed. However, it leans towards a more neutral profile, providing a balanced sound that is appropriate for various environments, whether it's at home or in a professional setting. Despite these differences, both switches promise a clacking experience, ensuring that users will enjoy a pleasant auditory feedback when typing.

When it comes to feel, the HMX Hibiscus is designed to offer a uniquely engaging typing experience, characterized by its bouncy and feathery sensations. This switch responds with an elastic feedback that enhances the typing rhythm, while requiring minimal exertion from the fingers, thus reducing fatigue during extended use. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Yellow is described as mild and polished, which provides a gentler and more approachable typing experience. The polished quality ensures smooth key travel while also maintaining a comfortable tactile response. While both switches promote a smooth experience, the Hibiscus's bouncy nature contrasts with the more subdued character of the Ink Yellow, catering to different preferences among users.

In conclusion, both the HMX Hibiscus and Gateron Ink Yellow linear switches deliver unique attributes that cater to different typing experiences. The Hibiscus focuses on a lively and satisfying sound accompanied by an engaging and feather-light feel, making it excellent for those who enjoy a more dynamic typing style. In contrast, the Ink Yellow provides a balanced clack with a smoother and more polished touch, appealing to those who desire a subtler and more refined typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on whether you prefer the energetic feedback of the Hibiscus or the more moderate approach of the Ink Yellow.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when deciding between the HMX Hibiscus and Gateron Ink Yellow linear switches, your choice will largely depend on your specific preferences and typing style. If you prioritize an ultra-light typing experience with an emphasis on smoothness and a satisfying auditory feedback, the Hibiscus switches are the ideal choice. They are particularly well-suited for those who engage in extensive typing tasks, such as gaming or writing, as their feathery feel and bouncy response can help reduce finger fatigue and make for prolonged, comfortable sessions. However, if you're looking for a switch with a bit more resistance and a sound profile that balances clackiness with a neutral approach, the Ink Yellow might be more appealing. Its medium-heavy force provides a more grounded typing experience, making it a great option for users who prefer a tactile sensation similar to that of a traditional mechanical keyboard while still retaining the smoothness and refined feedback you might expect. Ultimately, your decision should align with the type of use you envision—lighter and faster with Hibiscus or more moderate and versatile with Ink Yellow.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Hibiscus Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Ink Yellow Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

Learn more