HMX Hibiscus vs. Cherry MX Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the HMX Hibiscus and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often boils down to the type of experience you desire, and two popular linear options are the HMX Hibiscus and the Cherry MX Speed Silver. The HMX Hibiscus switches stand out for their exceptional smoothness and ultra-light actuation force, making them a dream for typists who appreciate a satisfying, clacky, and crispy sound profile. This switch is ideal for those who crave a plush, tactile feel while effortlessly gliding across the keys. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is built for speed, with a design that prioritizes rapid response and low spring resistance, catering specifically to gamers who require lightning-fast actuation to capitalize on every fleeting opportunity in gameplay. While the Hibiscus emphasizes a smooth and enjoyable typing experience, the Speed Silver is engineered for performance and competitive edge. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right 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
3.40 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Hibiscus and the Cherry MX Speed Silver both utilize nylon for their housing materials, encompassing both the top and bottom housings. This shared composition means that both switches are likely to produce a similar sound profile characterized by a deeper and fuller auditory experience. The softness of nylon contributes to sound absorption, which minimizes harshness and creates a duller, rounder sound, making typing on either switch comfortable and pleasant. Consequently, users can expect a comparable acoustic signature whether they opt for the Hibiscus or the Speed Silvers, as the fundamental material properties are consistent in both cases.
When examining the specific design elements, it’s noteworthy that even though both switches use nylon, slight variations in internal design or construction techniques may contribute to subtle differences in user experience. For instance, while the top housing’s impact is most pronounced when releasing a keycap, the bottom housing plays a critical role during key actuation and bottom-out moments. Given that both the Hibiscus and the Speed Silver share similar nylon compositions, any variations in sound and feel would likely stem from these nuanced differences in housing design rather than the materials themselves.
In essence, regardless of the identical material composition of both the HMX Hibiscus and the Cherry MX Speed Silver, the overall user experience can still differ depending on how each switch is engineered. Users can expect a rich acoustic sound profile, yet factors like tuning and internal design modifications could create unique typing experiences. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference, as both are built on an excellent foundation of nylon that fosters a satisfying auditory experience during use.
Weight
The HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch exhibit different characteristics in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Hibiscus has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a lighter option that is likely more suitable for users who prefer less resistance during long typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams, which is slightly heavier, potentially offering a more substantial typing experience. However, the bottom out force for the Speed Silver is unknown, making it difficult to fully compare that aspect. Overall, those who favor a lighter touch may lean towards the Hibiscus switch, while individuals seeking a firmer push feel might find the MX Speed Silver more appealing despite its lack of bottom out force information.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Hibiscus linear switch measures 3.5 mm, while the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that while both switches offer a shorter distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, the Hibiscus provides a more substantial depth, making it the longer option between the two. Conversely, the Cherry MX Speed Silver, being the shorter switch, may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times and more rapid actuation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference; those who appreciate a more pronounced depth might favor the Hibiscus, while those who prioritize speed could opt for the MX Speed Silver.
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 Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
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 sound quality of the HMX Hibiscus switch is characterized by a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy signature, making it a joy to type on. This auditory feedback contributes to an enchanting typing experience that many users find engaging and enjoyable. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch produces a thocky sound profile that is low-pitched, resulting in a deep and rich auditory response. This sound can be especially appealing for those who appreciate more subdued, bass-heavy tones in their typing experience. While both switches offer distinct sound characteristics, the Hibiscus leans toward a brighter, livelier sound, whereas the Speed Silver is more mellow and grounded.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Hibiscus switch is renowned for its unparalleled smoothness, which enhances the overall typing experience. Its ultra-light actuation force enables effortless keystrokes that many typists and gamers alike find appealing. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver features a textured feel that may introduce a level of friction during use. This texture can offer tactile feedback that some users prefer, but it may be less desirable for those seeking a friction-free experience. The contrast in feel between the two switches caters to different preferences: the Hibiscus provides a seamless glide, while the Speed Silver invites a more tactile interaction.
In summary, both the HMX Hibiscus and Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switches deliver distinct auditory and tactile experiences suited to different user preferences. The Hibiscus offers a brighter, more engaging sound with an ultra-smooth feel, ideal for those who enjoy a lively typing environment. In contrast, the Speed Silver gives a thocky, low-pitched sound accompanied by a textured feel, appealing to gamers seeking rapid response and tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches hinges on personal preference—whether one gravitates toward the smooth, vibrant experience of the Hibiscus or the rich, dynamic endurance of the Speed Silver.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the HMX Hibiscus and Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switches, your choice should ultimately depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize a silky smooth typing experience paired with a light actuation force of just 48 grams, the HMX Hibiscus is your ideal choice, especially if you enjoy a more tactile and satisfying pop and clack sound. This switch is perfect for everyday typing and can enhance your comfort during long typing sessions, making it suitable for writers, coders, or anyone who enjoys a relaxed but engaging keyboard experience. On the other hand, if you are a gamer seeking the ultimate responsiveness, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is designed for you. Its low spring resistance ensures a quick trigger action, allowing you to take full advantage of its rapid response time. This switch’s thocky and low-pitched sound adds a depth to your gameplay experience, while the textured feel could provide a slight tactile sensation that some gamers find beneficial. Ultimately, selecting between these two switches hinges on whether you value typing feel and sound over gaming speed and response, enabling you to make an informed decision that aligns with your personal keyboard usage habits.
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