HMX Hibiscus vs. Cherry MX Brown
An in-depth look at the HMX Hibiscus and the Cherry MX Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch for your typing style and preferences, the HMX Hibiscus and Cherry MX Brown stand out as two intriguing options, each with unique characteristics. The HMX Hibiscus switches are renowned for their unparalleled smoothness and incredibly light actuation force, making them a favored choice for those who enjoy a clacky, poppy typing experience that feels both responsive and lively. On the other hand, Cherry MX Brown switches emphasize subtlety, offering a soft tactile bump that provides gentle feedback without the loud clicking associated with many switches, making them ideal for users who prefer a quieter and more subdued auditory experience. While the Hibiscus caters to those seeking an exhilarating and crisp feel, the MX Brown is perfect for typists who appreciate a balanced and low-pitched response. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
No
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Hibiscus and Cherry MX Brown switches exhibit a noteworthy similarity, as both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This uniformity is significant in the way each switch produces sound and tactile feedback. The characteristics of nylon are integral to the overall performance of the switches; specifically, its softer plastic composition results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. When users type on either switch, they benefit from this acoustic property, which helps absorb sound and generates a more pleasant auditory experience compared to switches made from harder plastics.
While both switches share the same housing material, the sound profiles when bottoming out or releasing the key may differ in terms of overall feel and subtlety due to their specific designs. The bottom housing is crucial in determining the impacts of the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing primarily influences the sound upon key release. Even with the same material, nuances in design can lead to varying experiences for the user. Thus, although both switches utilize nylon—a material renowned for its sound-absorbing qualities—the acoustic signature perceived by the user may still convey diverse sensations.
In conclusion, the use of nylon in both the HMX Hibiscus and Cherry MX Brown contributes to their shared acoustic properties, ensuring a consistent sound profile that prioritizes a duller and rounder tonality. As a result, users can expect similar auditory experiences stemming from the nylon housing regardless of the specific switch they choose. This similarity can lead to comparable typing experiences in terms of sound, yet the overall feel can be influenced by minute differences in design characteristics. Ultimately, while the materials yield harmonious results, the nuanced designs will create distinctions that may appeal to individual user preferences.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Hibiscus features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it suitable for prolonged typing sessions or gaming, as it demands less effort from the user. In contrast, the Cherry MX Brown offers a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, positioning it in the medium-light range. This difference means that while both switches can provide a satisfactory typing experience, the Hibiscus will generally feel softer and more effortless to press, appealing to those who prefer a lighter touch. Meanwhile, the Cherry MX Brown, with its heavier forces, delivers a more substantial feel that some users might prefer for feedback and control. Overall, if users seek similar actuation experiences, they may find the Hibiscus's lighter profile provides a more comfortable option, while the MX Brown suits those who appreciate a bit more resistance in their keystrokes.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, there is a distinct difference to consider. The HMX Hibiscus features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Cherry MX Brown has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that pressing the Hibiscus switch provides a more responsive feel with its shorter distance, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker key actuation. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial depth in their keystrokes may appreciate the Cherry MX Brown switch for its longer travel distance, offering a tactile feedback that can feel more satisfying for typists. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you value responsiveness over depth, as the Hibiscus switch is the shorter option, while the Cherry MX Brown stands as the longer one.
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 Cherry MX Brown comes in at $4.00 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 satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, showcasing a keen presence that many users find enjoyable. In contrast, the Cherry MX Brown switch delivers a more subdued audio profile characterized by a bassy, low-pitched tone. While the Hibiscus can provide an engaging auditory experience, the MX Brown opts for subtlety, making it perfect for quieter environments where noise might be a concern. This contrast in sound profiles showcases distinctive user preferences, with the Hibiscus appealing to those who appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback and the MX Brown catering to those who prefer a more muted typing experience.
In terms of feel, the HMX Hibiscus switch is celebrated for its ultra-light actuation force that provides an incredibly smooth typing experience, making it a joy for those who value responsiveness and low resistance in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown switch features gentle tactility, offering a textured sensation that provides feedback without being overtly disruptive. This can create a unique typing experience; while the Hibiscus emphasizes speed and smoothness, the MX Brown's tactile feedback can enhance typing precision, with its slight texture adding a layer of engagement that some users may find satisfying.
In summary, the HMX Hibiscus and Cherry MX Brown switches cater to different typing experiences. The Hibiscus stands out with its smoothness and lively sound profile, perfect for those who enjoy a more dynamic auditory feedback, whereas the MX Brown strikes a balance with its textured feel and subtle sound, making it suitable for users who prefer a quieter and more controlled typing environment. Understanding these differences allows newcomers to choose the switch that best aligns with their personal preferences, ensuring a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you desire an ultra-light and smooth typing experience with a satisfying clacky sound and a feel that glides effortlessly under your fingers, the Hibiscus is your best bet. It’s particularly well-suited for those who enjoy fast-paced typing or gaming, where quick key presses are essential. On the other hand, if you appreciate a gentle tactile feedback with a subtle, bassy sound that provides a more familiar and grounded typing experience, the MX Brown may be the better choice. Its medium-light resistance allows for a balanced feel, making it ideal for long typing sessions or when you want to strike a balance between typing and gaming. Ultimately, your choice should align with your specific needs for tactile feedback and sound preference, ensuring that your mechanical keyboard experience is both comfortable and enjoyable.
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