HMX Hibiscus vs. Gateron Lunar Probe
An in-depth look at the HMX Hibiscus and the Gateron Lunar Probe switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can significantly influence your typing experience, and two noteworthy contenders are the HMX Hibiscus and the Gateron Lunar Probe, both of which are linear switches but offer distinct characteristics. The HMX Hibiscus is celebrated for its ultra-light actuation force, making it an excellent option for users who prioritize effortless keystrokes and a unique sound profile that leans towards a satisfyingly clacky and poppy tone. Its smoothness is unrivaled, appealing to typists who value a pristine and pleasurable typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe stands out with its innovative dual rail mechanism, which ensures stability and consistency in each keypress. These switches provide a pre-lubed, incredibly smooth feel combined with a subtler sound signature, making them suitable for users who prefer a quieter yet equally satisfying typing experience. Both switches have their unique strengths, catering to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts; 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
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
T3
Stem material
POM
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
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Hibiscus and the Gateron Lunar Probe, a notable distinction arises between their top housings. The Hibiscus features a nylon top housing, which is characteristic of producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is attributed to nylon's softer composition, which allows it to absorb sound effectively, leading to a more muted and rounded auditory experience. In contrast, the Lunar Probe utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that delivers a sharper and crisper sound profile. The rigidity of polycarbonate enhances clarity and resonance, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback during typing. This divergence in material results in vastly different sound characteristics, catering to varying user preferences for tactile and acoustic stimulation.
Despite the difference in their top housing materials, both the Hibiscus and Lunar Probe share a nylon bottom housing. The use of nylon in the bottom housing for both switches contributes to a consistent experience in terms of feel and sound quality at the point of bottoming out. As mentioned, nylon's softer properties absorb sound and provide a deeper tone, leading to a uniform acoustic experience when the switches are fully depressed. This similarity ensures that while the top housing influences the sound produced upon key release differently, both switches provide a harmonious auditory characteristic through their nylon bottom housings. Therefore, regardless of the notable differences in top materials, users can expect a cohesive sound profile during usage.
In essence, the combination of different top housing materials with the same nylon bottom housing creates a unique interplay of sound profiles for each switch. The Hibiscus offers a rounded auditory experience due to its nylon top, while the Lunar Probe's polycarbonate top provides a sharper clarity. Users can experiment with these switches to find a satisfying balance between the deep tones produced by the bottom housing and the distinctive top housing sound characteristics. This blend of materials allows for tailored typing experiences that can meet personal preferences, demonstrating how different materials can lead to nuanced soundscapes and tactile sensations in mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, both exhibit light overall force characteristics, but they differ slightly in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Hibiscus has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Lunar Probe features a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that while both switches are on the lighter end of the spectrum, the Hibiscus requires less force to actuate a keystroke, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions, especially in a work or gaming context where less finger fatigue is desired. In contrast, the Lunar Probe, with its heavier actuation force, might appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience, as it requires a bit more pressure to register each keypress. Ultimately, those seeking a lighter touch should gravitate towards the Hibiscus, whereas those who appreciate a firmer feel will find the Lunar Probe more to their liking.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, the Hibiscus has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Lunar Probe measures slightly longer at 3.6 mm. This makes the Hibiscus the shorter of the two switches, catering to users who appreciate a more responsive feel that can benefit fast-paced gaming. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe’s longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial bottoming out sensation while typing or gaming, as it provides a deeper feedback that some users find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for either the snappier response of the shorter Hibiscus or the fuller experience of the longer Lunar Probe.
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 Gateron Lunar Probe has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lunar Probe for $4.19.
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 characterized by its satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, which contributes to a more dynamic auditory experience while typing. This sound profile stands in contrast to the Gateron Lunar Probe, which features a subtle sound signature due to its pre-lubed linear design and novel dual rail mechanism. While the Hibiscus is more vibrant, the Lunar Probe's quieter nature allows for a more subdued typing experience. However, it's important to remember that the sound produced by either switch can vary significantly depending on the keyboard’s construction, choice of keycaps, and overall setup.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Hibiscus switch excels with its ultra-light actuation force, making it exceptionally easy to press, delivering an incredibly smooth and pristine typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe is known for its smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation that also aims for a consistent keypress due to the dual rail mechanism. While both switches provide a smooth experience, the Hibiscus leans more towards a lightweight feel, which can amplify the typing experience, whereas the Lunar Probe might be preferred for those who enjoy a bit more stability and control during their keypresses.
In summary, the HMX Hibiscus and Gateron Lunar Probe linear switches offer distinct auditory and tactile experiences. The Hibiscus presents a more lively sound that can enhance the typing atmosphere, while the Lunar Probe's subtle sound profile caters to those seeking quiet operation. Both switches deliver smooth typing sensations, with the Hibiscus offering a lighter, more effortless feel compared to the stable and controlled experience of the Lunar Probe. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on whether you prioritize sound dynamics or a more subdued auditory experience in conjunction with your preferred typing style.
Conclusion
To conclude, both the HMX Hibiscus and Gateron Lunar Probe linear switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. If you're someone who values an ultra-light actuation force combined with an exhilarating and lively sound, the Hibiscus switch might be the right choice for you. Its smoothness and satisfying pop make it ideal for those who enjoy a tactile, almost auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, if you prioritize stability and a consistent feel, the Lunar Probe switch with its dual rail mechanism could be more suitable. As it features a subtle sound signature and an incredibly smooth, pre-lubed feel, this switch is perfect for users who desire a quieter work environment without sacrificing performance. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your personal preferences regarding actuation force, sound, and the overall tactile experience you seek in a mechanical keyboard.
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