HMX Hibiscus vs. Everglide Lightning Silver V3
An in-depth look at the HMX Hibiscus and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When evaluating mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Hibiscus and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 stand out as compelling choices for enthusiasts seeking a linear experience, but each offers its own distinct characteristics to suit different preferences. The HMX Hibiscus is renowned for its ultra-light actuation force and unparalleled smoothness, delivering an experience that many users find particularly enjoyable. In addition to its gentle touch, the Hibiscus features a satisfyingly clacky and poppy sound signature, making each keystroke not only responsive but also gratifying to hear. On the other hand, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 captures attention with its silky typing feel and high-pitched, clacky sound profile, enhancing both functionality and auditory feedback. Additionally, its unique light diffuser amplifies RGB illumination, making it a visually appealing option for gamers and customization lovers alike. Ultimately, both switches bring exceptional qualities to the table, catering to users with varying priorities—be it a smooth typing experience or vibrant aesthetics. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
T3
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Lengthened gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Hibiscus and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 switches, a noticeable divergence arises from their primary materials. The Hibiscus utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, a choice that offers characteristics conducive to producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb sound, creating a more rounded auditory experience that is ideal for users seeking a muted typing sensation. Conversely, the Lightning Silver V3 is constructed with polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings. This material is stiffer than nylon, translating to a sharper, crisper sound profile that enhances the clarity and resonance of each keystroke. This fundamental difference in material results in distinct sound characteristics when typing, highlighting how the choice of housing directly influences the auditory feedback of each switch.
Moreover, the physical properties of the materials further emphasize their contrasts. The nylon of the Hibiscus contributes to a more subdued sound, which may appeal to users who prefer a quieter typing experience, especially in shared environments. In contrast, the polycarbonate housing of the Lightning Silver V3 ensures that each keypress is accompanied by a higher-pitched sound, adding to the excitement and responsiveness of the typing experience. This clarity may be particularly appreciated by gamers or typists who favor an audibly stimulating interaction with their keyboard. While both switches offer excellent build quality, the choice between them ultimately hinges on user preferences for sound and tactile feedback derived from the unique qualities of their respective materials.
Despite their differences, one could argue that both switches can achieve commendable typing experiences based on personal preference. Where the Hibiscus excels in delivering a plush, absorbent sound, the Lightning Silver V3 compensates with a bold and resonant tone. Users can expect similar results from both switches in terms of overall performance, even if the auditory profiles differ significantly. It's also worth noting that the choice of housing materials influences not just the sound but the feel of each switch as well. Ultimately, whether one opts for the mellower sound of the Hibiscus or the vivid clarity of the Lightning Silver V3, both switches have the potential to enhance a typing experience tailored to the user's needs.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces that cater to varying user preferences. The Hibiscus features a relatively light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a great option for those who favor a lighter feel for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Lightning Silver V3 has a heavier actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which appeals to users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. The distinct differences in actuation and bottom out forces signify that the Hibiscus is the lighter choice overall, while the Lightning Silver V3 offers a medium weight option suitable for those who prefer more resistance. Thus, if one seeks a more effortless typing feel, the Hibiscus would be more appropriate, while the Lightning Silver V3 might be preferred for users who appreciate the tactile feedback of a heavier switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch, there is a slight distinction that can influence user experience. The Hibiscus features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Lightning Silver V3 has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Hibiscus the option for those who appreciate a deeper, more pronounced keystroke, providing a bit more tangible feedback. On the other hand, the Lightning Silver V3, with its 3.4 mm travel, caters to users who may favor a more rapid response, which can be particularly beneficial for gaming. Ultimately, while both switches are close in distance, opting for the Hibiscus would lend to a fuller key feel, whereas the Lightning Silver V3 can offer faster actuation with its shorter travel distance.
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 Everglide Lightning Silver V3 has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lightning Silver V3 for $4.10.
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
The HMX Hibiscus linear switch is known for its satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, offering a unique auditory experience that stands out among mechanical keyboard switches. In contrast, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 is characterized by its clacky and high-pitched sound profile. Both switches share a commitment to producing a bright, sharp acoustic feedback, contributing to a lively typing ambiance. However, the Hibiscus may present a slightly warmer sound compared to the sharper tones of the Lightning Silver V3. Keep in mind that the overall sound experience can also be influenced by the choice of keyboard build and keycaps used, meaning you might achieve similar auditory results depending on your setup.
When it comes to feel, the Hibiscus switch is celebrated for its unparalleled smoothness, ensuring a pristine typing experience that many find addictive. Meanwhile, the Lightning Silver V3 switch is designed to deliver a silky touch, enhancing the smoothness during key presses and minimizing any resistance when actuating the keys. While both switches prioritize a smooth feel, the Hibiscus excels with its ultra-light actuation force that eases finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Therefore, both switches will provide a remarkable tactile experience, but the Hibiscus might suit those who prefer an extremely light touch.
In conclusion, both the HMX Hibiscus and Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Hibiscus stands out for its clacky yet warm sound signature and exceptional smoothness, while the Lightning Silver V3 impresses with its distinctively high-pitched sounds and silky feel. Users seeking lively auditory feedback and smooth typing would benefit from either option, but personal preference will ultimately guide the choice between them. Regardless of which switch you select, you're sure to enjoy a high-quality typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a lighter actuation force and an ultra-smooth typing experience, the Hibiscus might be the perfect fit for you. Its 48-gram bottom-out force makes typing feel effortless, ideal for those long gaming sessions or extensive typing tasks where comfort and rapid execution are crucial. Additionally, if you appreciate a satisfyingly clacky sound, the Hibiscus offers that unique auditory feedback, making each keystroke feel more engaging. On the other hand, if you prefer a bit more resistance with a 60-gram bottom-out force, the Lightning Silver V3 caters to those who enjoy a more structured and deliberate typing experience. Its silky feel and high-pitched clack can elevate your typing performance, particularly if you enjoy a keyboard that showcases vibrant RGB lighting due to its unique light diffuser. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you desire a light and airy touch or a more firm and deliberate action while you type or game.
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