HMX Hibiscus vs. Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade)
An in-depth look at the HMX Hibiscus and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Hibiscus and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) present contrasting yet captivating experiences tailored for different typing preferences. The HMX Hibiscus, known for its ultra-light actuation force and a unique clacky sound profile, offers an indulgently smooth and feathery feel that appeals to those who prioritize a fluid and effortless typing experience. Its bouncy action makes it ideal for rapid typing tasks and long sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) switches deliver a pronounced tactile sensation with their sharp downstroke and even more prominent upstroke bump, providing a snappy and impactful response that many tactile enthusiasts cherish. The Moyu Blacks' medium-heavy feel and resonant sound profile add a sense of satisfaction for those who enjoy a more deliberate typing rhythm. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to whether you favor the smoothness and agility of the Hibiscus or the tactile feedback and pronounced acoustics of the Moyu Black. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that aligns with your unique typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
PBT
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
PBT
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the HMX Hibiscus with its nylon housing to the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) featuring a PBT housing, we can observe a significant contrast in sound profiles and tactile feedback. The Hibiscus, with its nylon top housing, is designed to generate a deeper and fuller sound due to the material's softer nature. This results in a sound that is muted and rounded, making it more suitable for users who prefer a rich auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the Moyu Black's PBT top housing offers a more neutral sound profile, neither crisp nor dull, creating a distinct typing experience. This variance in housing materials influences the acoustic feedback crucial for users who are selective about their auditory engagement with their keyboards.
Both the Hibiscus and the Moyu Black feature nylon and PBT materials in their bottom housings, respectively. The Hibiscus's nylon bottom housing continues the trend of producing a deeper sound, further emphasizing a fuller auditory output. This quality reinforces the Hibiscus's characteristic sound, allowing for a more pronounced bottom-out feel while typing. Conversely, the Moyu Black's PBT bottom housing contributes to the switch's neutral sound profile, which does not engage with the full range of frequencies as prominently as nylon. As a result, while the Hibiscus may offer a richer sound experience overall, the Moyu Black provides a balanced and consistent feedback that might appeal to those seeking a more understated typing experience.
Interestingly, the distinct materials utilized in the two switch designs underscore the impact of the top and bottom housing on sound and feel during usage. In both cases, the incorporation of different plastics means that sound quality is influenced by both the bottom-out action and the release sound when the key is pressed. Those who choose the Hibiscus can expect a sound signature dominated by rich, warm tones while letting go of the keys, whereas users of the Moyu Black will enjoy a more neutral sound that maintains clarity without overwhelmed depth. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on whether users favor a more enveloping sound experience or a balanced auditory profile that centers around consistency and moderation.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch, notable differences arise in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Hibiscus features a relatively light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a lighter feel that allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) requires a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and has a significantly higher bottom out force of 67 grams, appealing to those who favor a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the Hibiscus is the lighter option, while the Moyu Black is the heavier switch, with a notable increase in force required at all stages of key engagement, which can affect overall typing comfort and style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch, there is a clear difference. The Hibiscus has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Moyu Black features a travel distance of 4 mm, positioning it as the longer switch. This difference means that users who favor quicker key presses may appreciate the Hibiscus for its reduced travel distance, which can facilitate faster response times, especially popular among gamers. Conversely, the Moyu Black, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more substantial and satisfying feel for those who prefer the tactile feedback of deeper key presses. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for responsiveness versus depth.
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 Moyu Black (Dark Jade) has an MSRP of $12.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) for $7.59.
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
In terms of sound, the HMX Hibiscus switch produces a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature that enhances the auditory experience while typing. This sharp and bright sound profile adds an engaging element to each keystroke, making it enjoyable for users who appreciate a more expressive acoustic feedback. Conversely, the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) offers a resonant sound that is clean and sharp, characterized by a higher-pitched auditory experience. The combination of the Moyu’s strong downstroke bump creates a short, snappy sound that provides an impactful typing atmosphere. Ultimately, while the Hibiscus leans towards a more percussive clarity, the Moyu Black presents a more immersive and refined sound, both of which are influenced by the keyboard and keycap choices.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Hibiscus switch is renowned for its bouncy and feathery characteristics, offering a spring-like response that gives users a satisfying rebound with each keystroke. This ultra-light actuation force allows for prolonged typing with minimal finger fatigue, making it ideal for extended sessions. In contrast, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) delivers a sharp and accented tactile feedback, featuring a prominent and crisp bump that users can distinctly sense with every keypress. These tactile sensations create an engaging and responsive experience that can energize typing, though the Moyu's medium-heavy feel may require more effort than the Hibiscus’s lighter touch.
Overall, both the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch offer unique and fulfilling typing experiences, catering to different preferences. The Hibiscus is ideal for those who seek a light, smooth, and lively feel accompanied by an engaging acoustic output. Meanwhile, the Moyu Black stands out for its pronounced tactile feedback and sharp auditory cues, appealing to users who enjoy a punchy and responsive typing sensation. Ultimately, the best choice hinges on individual preferences regarding sound and feel, allowing users to find their ideal keyboard experience in either switch.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a light, smooth, and bouncy typing experience with a satisfying clack sound, the Hibiscus is an excellent choice. It’s particularly well-suited for extended typing sessions thanks to its feathery actuation force, which minimizes finger fatigue and makes it ideal for users who engage in gaming, schoolwork, or prolonged writing tasks. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial feel with pronounced tactile feedback, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) is the way to go. These switches offer a stronger bottom-out force and a distinct tactile bump that delivers crisp, sharp feedback, making them perfect for typists who appreciate a punchy tactile sensation while typing. Additionally, the resonant sound profile provides an immersive auditory experience that many users find satisfying. Consider your typing habits and acoustic preferences to choose the switch that will enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
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