HMX Hibiscus vs. Outemu Peach
An in-depth look at the HMX Hibiscus and the Outemu Peach switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Hibiscus and the Outemu Peach present two appealing options for enthusiasts of linear switches, each with its unique charm. The Hibiscus is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness and light actuation force, making it a standout choice for those who crave a clacky, poppy acoustics that enhance the typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Peach switches prioritize a muted, subtle sound profile while remaining featherlight, offering a refined and polished feel perfect for those who prefer a quieter environment without sacrificing the linear keypress experience. While both switches cater to linear fans with their lightweight designs, the Hibiscus leans into auditory satisfaction while the Peach focuses on a more muted approach. 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
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Hibiscus and the Outemu Peach, it is important to note that both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This shared material choice fosters similarities in sound and feel. Nylon is recognized in the keyboard switch community for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. Because both the Hibiscus and Peach switches leverage nylon in their construction, users can anticipate a consistent auditory experience characterized by a duller and rounder sound signature, ideal for those who prefer a more muted acoustical feedback while typing or gaming.
Despite their shared use of nylon, the way the top and bottom housings contribute to the overall switch performance is noteworthy. Each component plays a distinct role in shaping the typing experience. The bottom housing is responsible for the bottom-out sound and feel, which means that even though both switches are made from the same material, the specific molding and design can lead to slight variations in how each switch behaves during keystrokes. This can affect factors such as sound resonance and tactile feedback, enhancing the unique characteristics of each switch while maintaining the foundational benefits of nylon.
Moreover, in terms of overall durability and responsiveness, both switches capitalize on the resilience of nylon. The housing material is known for its longevity, providing a reliable performance over extended periods of use. Users of both the HMX Hibiscus and the Outemu Peach can expect a satisfying typing environment that minimizes noise while maximizing tactility, despite potential variances in design. Ultimately, while the shared nylon material suggests a familiar auditory experience, the intricate details in switch design and engineering will empower users with distinctive yet complementary experiences across both models.
Weight
The HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Outemu Peach linear switch present a fascinating comparison in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Hibiscus has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Peach is slightly lighter with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Hibiscus requires more force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Peach, making the Peach the lighter option overall. However, the bottom out force indicates that while both switches are relatively light, the Peach is actually heavier when pressed all the way down. Users looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Outemu Peach for its lower actuation force, allowing for longer typing sessions with less fatigue. Conversely, those who favor a more substantial feel might be drawn to the Hibiscus despite its slightly higher actuation force. Overall, while both switches have similar characteristics, the Peach offers a marginally lighter actuation experience, while the Hibiscus requires a bit more force to trigger a keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Outemu Peach linear switch, the Hibiscus has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Peach measures 3.3 mm. This means that the Hibiscus provides a slightly longer travel distance, offering a more pronounced feel when pressing the keys, which can be preferable for users who enjoy a deeper keypress for responsive feedback. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Peach may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times and a snappier feel during gameplay. Ultimately, if you prioritize deeper key presses, the Hibiscus would be the better choice, while those looking for a faster, more efficient press might lean towards the Peach switch.
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 Outemu Peach comes in at $3.40 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 profiles, the HMX Hibiscus switch is characterized by a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, making it an audible delight for users who appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback when typing. In contrast, the Outemu Peach linear switch is notable for its muted sound profile, producing a softer and quieter experience. The Peach’s design allows for more discreet typing, which is ideal for those who need to maintain a quieter environment, whether at home or in a shared workspace. Thus, while Hibiscus appeals to those who love vibrant sounds, the Peach caters to users prioritizing noise reduction.
In terms of feel, the Hibiscus switch stands out for its ultra-light actuation force, offering an incredibly smooth typing experience that many users find exceptional. The switch's texture and response lend themselves to a fast and effortless experience, enhancing overall comfort and efficiency. On the other hand, the Outemu Peach switches provide a mild and subtle touch, making it approachable for a broad range of users. With a polished finish, these switches deliver smooth key travel with gentle resistance, ensuring a light typing feel that remains refined. The Hibiscus, with its emphasis on smoothness, offers a different tactile experience relative to the Peach's more muted tactile characteristics.
In summary, the HMX Hibiscus and the Outemu Peach switches deliver distinct auditory and tactile experiences. The Hibiscus switch engages users with its clacky sound and ultra-light feel, appealing to those who revel in auditory feedback. Conversely, the muted sound and mild touch of the Peach make it suitable for environments where discretion is valued while still providing a refined typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on whether one prefers a more vibrant auditory experience or seeks a gentle, quieter typing environment.
Conclusion
To sum up, the choice between HMX Hibiscus and Outemu Peach linear switches ultimately hinges on your personal preferences regarding typing feel and sound profile. If you prioritize an ultra-light typing experience with an engaging, clacky sound signature, the HMX Hibiscus switches are an excellent option for you. Their light actuation force and smoothness make them ideal for those who enjoy fast and precise typing, especially when the tactile feedback adds to the overall experience. On the other hand, if you seek a more muted and subtle experience with a soft touch, the Outemu Peach switches would serve you well. They offer a polished feel that is gentle yet satisfying, along with a noticeably quieter operation, making them perfect for shared environments or situations where noise may be a concern. Ultimately, both switches cater to linear enthusiasts, but your specific needs for sound and feel will determine the best fit for your keyboard setup.
Mentioned in this article
