HMX Hibiscus vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the HMX Hibiscus and the Gateron Mini i 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 Mini i offer distinct yet appealing options tailored to different preferences. The HMX Hibiscus is a linear switch celebrated for its unparalleled smoothness and ultra-light actuation force, delivering a poppy, crisp sound that many typists crave for a lively and engaging typing experience. Its satisfying auditory feedback makes it ideal for those who enjoy the resonance of their keystrokes, providing an almost euphoric rhythm to the task at hand. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i, a tactile switch, offers a more subdued experience, perfect for office environments where tranquility is key. Its gentle tactile feedback strikes a balance between responsiveness and discretion, allowing for hours of comfortable typing without overwhelming sound. While the Hibiscus caters to gamers and enthusiasts who relish in auditory excitement, the Mini i serves those seeking a professional yet satisfying typing feel. 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Hibiscus and Gateron Mini i switches both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housing, a material recognized for its acoustic properties in the realm of mechanical switches. Nylon's distinctive ability to absorb vibrations allows for a unique resonance, contributing to the deeper and fuller sound profile experienced during typing. The shared use of nylon in both the Hibiscus and Mini i means that users can expect a similar acoustic experience, characterized by a duller and rounder sound, which results from the material's inherent softness compared to harder plastics. This consistency across both switches illustrates a commitment to quality and user experience through the use of a classic switching material.
Both switches leverage nylon's properties to enhance the typing experience, yet the overall feel and sound might still differ based on the specific internal mechanisms and designs of each switch. While the top and bottom housings are both made from nylon, the unique engineering choices in terms of spring tension, actuation point, and lubrication can lead to subtle differences in performance. The HMX Hibiscus and Gateron Mini i switches may offer a similarly harmonious sound due to shared housing material, yet the tactile feedback, feedback upon bottoming out, and acoustic nuances can vary slightly depending on these other factors.
Ultimately, the agreement on housing material does suggest that when typing on either the HMX Hibiscus or the Gateron Mini i switches, users can anticipate a comparable auditory experience. Given both models use nylon, the quality of sound produced upon key release and bottoming out will have a shared characteristic. However, it is essential to consider that the nuanced differences resulting from their distinct internal mechanisms will contribute to unique attributes in each switch, which can slightly alter the overall typing experience while still maintaining a core similarity due to the reliance on nylon in their construction.
Weight
The HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch both feature light actuation and bottom out forces, though they have slight variations in their specifications. The Hibiscus has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Mini i's actuation force is slightly lighter at 40 grams, with a bottom out force of 50 grams. This makes the Hibiscus the heavier option in terms of actuation force, but the Mini i slightly heavier when measuring the bottom out force. For users who prioritize prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming, both switches are suitable choices due to their comparatively light forces, allowing for less finger fatigue. However, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may find the Gateron Mini i’s slight pushback at the bottom out to be preferable. Overall, while both switches are light, the nuances in force allow users to select based on their personal preferences for actuation versus bottoming out experience.
Travel distance
The HMX Hibiscus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Mini i tactile switch features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Hibiscus switch offers a more pronounced depth when pressed down, which some users may prefer for a more tactile and hearty feel during typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Mini i’s shorter travel distance could cater to those who favor quicker response times, making it potentially more suitable for fast-paced gaming scenarios. If you emphasize responsiveness, the Mini i may be the better choice, while the Hibiscus could offer a more satisfying keystroke for those who appreciate a deeper travel experience. Overall, while the two switches are quite similar, the Hibiscus is the longer option by a millimeter, highlighting the subtle differences in tactile feedback and performance.
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 Mini i comes in at $6.00 per 10 switches.
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 switch offers a distinctively clacky and poppy auditory experience that appeals to those who enjoy an expressive typing acoustics. This sharp, crispy sound signature adds a layer of satisfaction and playfulness to every keystroke, making it an excellent choice for users who want their typing to resonate. In contrast, the Gateron Mini i adopts a more subdued approach with a neutral sound profile, which aims to cater to a quieter environment, especially in office settings. Although its sound is muted, it still maintains a satisfying level of feedback without becoming intrusive, making it ideal for those who work in shared spaces.
In terms of feel, the HMX Hibiscus switch is known for its ultra-light actuation force, enhancing its overall smoothness and providing a seamless typing experience. This makes it particularly attractive for users who prefer a lightweight feel while typing but lacks detailed descriptors about its tactile characteristics. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i switches offer a mix of qualities, notably emphasizing gentle resistance and a bouncy, elastic feedback sensation. This blend of subdued and responsive attributes makes the Mini i enjoyable for long typing sessions, minimizing finger fatigue. Its snappy nature also enhances the typing experience while remaining approachable for both beginners and seasoned typists alike.
In conclusion, the HMX Hibiscus and Gateron Mini i switches cater to different preferences but can be appealing in their own right. The Hibiscus, with its lively sound and ultra-smooth feel, is great for those who relish an expressive typing atmosphere, while the Mini i provides a balanced, quiet experience with gentle tactile feedback suitable for office environments. Each switch has unique qualities that cater to different typing styles, ensuring that users will find satisfactory results depending on their chosen switch.
Conclusion
To conclude, selecting between the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you prioritize a smooth and seamless typing experience paired with an invigorating clacky sound, the Hibiscus is your ideal choice; its ultra-light actuation force will make typing feel effortless, making it excellent for casual use, gaming, or creative tasks where rapid key presses are essential. On the other hand, if your environment calls for a more subdued approach—like an office setting where professionalism is key—the Gateron Mini i becomes a solid contender. Its subtle tactility provides gentle feedback without a disruptive sound profile, making it perfect for long typing sessions while keeping distraction to a minimum. Ultimately, your decision should align with whether you value sound and smoothness or tactility and noise control, ensuring that your keyboard experience matches your lifestyle and workspace needs.
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