HMX Hibiscus vs. Gateron Mars
An in-depth look at the HMX Hibiscus and the Gateron Mars switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Hibiscus and Gateron Mars both stand out as exceptional linear options, yet they cater to different preferences in the typing experience. The HMX Hibiscus is renowned for its unparalleled smoothness and a typing experience that’s both satisfying and crisp, making it ideal for users who crave an ultra-light touch and a lively sound signature. With an actuation force that is lighter than 80% of all switches, typists can enjoy a swift and effortless keystroke, perfect for rapid typing or gaming sessions where speed is crucial. In contrast, the Gateron Mars switches embrace a unique blend of materials, utilizing a POK stem paired with housing created from a Nylon and POM composite, which not only enhances durability but also offers a distinctly different tactile feedback experience. While the Hibiscus may delight those seeking a lighter, more acoustic touch, the Mars offers a robust construction that appeals to enthusiasts looking for longevity in their devices. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 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
POK
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Hibiscus and Gateron Mars switches present both similarities and differences that influence their acoustic and tactile properties. Both switches feature a nylon material for the top housing, which significantly affects their sound profiles. Nylon's reputation as a classic switch housing material is well-established, as it tends to produce a deeper and fuller sound when typing. The inherent softness of nylon allows it to absorb sound waves more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound characteristic. Therefore, users of both switches can expect a similar auditory experience when the keys are pressed down, thanks to the nylon top housing.
In contrast, the bottom housing of these switches diverges in material choice. The Hibiscus utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which continues the themes established by its top housing—offering a cohesive acoustic profile that resonates with a rounded sound. However, the Gateron Mars employs a POM bottom housing, which provides a distinct acoustic signature. While POM (Polyoxymethylene) does create a deeper and more muted sound, its properties differ from nylon, leading to a unique auditory experience. As the bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feels, users might notice that the Gateron Mars offers a subtly different tactile feedback compared to the Hibiscus upon full key press.
When pressing the keys on the Hibiscus and Mars switches, users will experience how the interplay of housing materials influences both sound and feel. Since the Hibiscus maintains consistency with nylon in both top and bottom housings, it delivers a uniform sound signature throughout the keypress. Meanwhile, the Mars's dual-material housing introduces an additional dynamic; while the nylon top provides a full sound, the POM bottom adds a layer of complexity with its unique tonal qualities. Thus, while there are similarities in the top housing contributing to a shared auditory experience, the differing bottom materials lead to a more pronounced difference in the overall keypress experience across the two models.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces, which influence the overall typing experience. The Hibiscus switch features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a smooth, effortless typing feel ideal for long work sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Mars switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, which may appeal to users seeking a more substantial typing experience. However, the bottom out force for the Mars switch is unknown, leaving a gap in comparison for that specific measurement. Overall, users seeking a lighter switch may gravitate towards the Hibiscus due to its lower actuation force, while those who prefer a bit more resistance might find the Mars more to their liking.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch, the Hibiscus has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Mars has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This indicates that, for those who favor faster response times, the Hibiscus might be the more appealing option due to its shorter distance, which can provide a quicker activation with less effort. On the other hand, the Mars, with its longer 3.6 mm travel distance, may be preferred by users who enjoy a more substantial key press that offers a slightly deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for response time versus the tactile satisfaction of a deeper press.
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 Mars has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mars for $5.50.
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 switches are characterized by a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, creating an auditory experience that many users find delightful, especially when typing. This sound profile enriches the typing experience, offering a lively feedback that can heighten the enjoyment of using the keyboard. The Gateron Mars switches are designed with a POK stem and a housing made from a blend of Nylon and POM, but their specific sound qualities aren't detailed here. It’s important to keep in mind that the overall sound of both switches can be significantly influenced by the type of keyboard they are mounted on as well as the keycap material, so while the Hibiscus clearly has an appealing sound, the Mars's auditory characteristics remain unspecified.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Hibiscus switches provide an ultra-light actuation force that allows for a remarkably smooth typing experience, making them an ideal choice for those who favor a lightweight touch in their keystrokes. This smoothness can lead to quicker, more effortless typing and less finger fatigue over extended periods of use. On the other hand, the feel of the Gateron Mars switches is not described in detail here, leaving an unknown aspect of their overall tactile experience. Nevertheless, both switches may deliver satisfying performance depending on individual user preferences.
In conclusion, the HMX Hibiscus linear switch stands out with its extremely smooth action and engaging sound profile, making it particularly appealing to users who prioritize a light touch and lively feedback. While the Gateron Mars switches promise intriguing design features, their specific sound and feel remain unclear. When choosing between these options, knowing the Hibiscus offers undeniable auditory and tactile qualities will help you enjoy a superior typing experience, while a potential exploration of the Mars can be an interesting venture into Gateron's innovative designs. Ultimately, individual preferences will dictate the best choice; however, fans of smooth linear switches may find themselves gravitating towards the Hibiscus for its established qualities.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch ultimately boils down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lightweight switch that delivers an exceptionally smooth and engaging typing experience, the Hibiscus is an excellent choice. With a bottom-out force of just 48 grams, it’s perfect for those who enjoy rapid keystrokes, making it ideal for gaming or extended typing sessions without causing fatigue. The satisfying clack and pop of the Hibiscus also appeal to those who appreciate auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, if you're drawn to avant-garde designs and a unique tactile feel, the Gateron Mars might be more to your liking. While the specific bottom-out force of the Mars is unavailable, its distinct POK stem design combined with the Nylon and POM housing offers a unique typing sensation that can appeal to gamers and typists looking for a different switch experience. Your choice should align with what aspects matter the most to you: smoothness and lightweight action with the Hibiscus, or innovation and distinct feel with the Gateron Mars.
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