HMX Hibiscus vs. Durock Piano
An in-depth look at the HMX Hibiscus and the Durock Piano switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves comparing options like the HMX Hibiscus and the Durock Piano, both highly regarded linear switches that cater to different preferences. The HMX Hibiscus is celebrated for its ultra-light actuation force, which makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a plush, effortless typing experience. Users are drawn to its unique sound profile, characterized by a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy resonance that adds a tactile pleasure to every keystroke. On the other hand, the Durock Piano switches offer a contrasting yet equally appealing experience, thanks to their proprietary material blend that delivers a silky, frictionless feel alongside a deep, creamy sound signature. This makes the Durock Piano a fantastic option for typists who prioritize smooth performance with a warmer auditory feedback. Both switches possess unique qualities that can enhance your typing environment. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
Mystery material
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Hibiscus and the Durock Piano present a fascinating study in contrasts yet share common ground that influences their sound profiles. The Hibiscus utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings. Known for its softer characteristics, nylon is renowned for its ability to absorb sound effectively, creating a deeper and fuller sound signature. This results in a muted auditory experience that is generally warmer and rounder. In contrast, the Durock Piano employs a proprietary POM blend for both its top and bottom housings. Although the specifics of this blend are undisclosed, POM (polyoxymethylene) is known for its hardness and durability. Despite its harder nature, the Durock Piano mid has been developed to produce a uniquely satisfying and deep sound that rivals that of the Hibiscus.
When exploring the impact of these materials on overall performance, it becomes evident that the differences in sound absorption and texture yield unique typing experiences for each keyboard. The HMX Hibiscus’s nylon housing allows for a notable sound dampening effect, particularly noticeable during the release of the key—further contributing to its round and softer auditory feedback. In contrast, the Durock Piano's POM blend, while harder, offers a sound profile that still manages to be deeply satisfying, perhaps due to the specific formulation of the blend, which maintains some sound-dampening characteristics. This versatility in blend design allows the Piano to deliver a compelling typing experience despite its distinct material.
It's also notable that the separation of housing materials affects how the qualities of sound and feel are distributed during use. In the Hibiscus, both nylon housings work in tandem, allowing the deeper sound to manifest throughout the entire keystroke—both the actuation and release phases. On the other hand, while the Durock Piano's switch may feel firmer due to the hardness of the POM blend, the detailed engineering of its housing still allows it to deliver a full sound during both actuation and bottom-out. Therefore, though the materials differ—nylon versus a POM blend—the end results of achieving a satisfying and deep sound experience can coexist, underscoring the artistry behind each design.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, a notable difference emerges in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Hibiscus features a light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer longer typing sessions or gaming marathons with minimal fatigue. In contrast, the Durock Piano switch has no specified actuation force but boasts a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, indicating a more substantial feel when pressing down fully. This suggests that while the Hibiscus is lighter and more forgiving, the Durock Piano offers a firmer push, appealing to those who enjoy a stronger typing experience. Consequently, users looking for a lighter switch might gravitate towards the Hibiscus for comfort, while those seeking a more robust and resistant feedback will likely prefer the Durock Piano.
Travel distance
The HMX Hibiscus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Durock Piano linear switch features a longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This distinction means that the Hibiscus offers a shorter actuation distance, which can provide quicker response times, making it ideal for gamers who favor faster actions. Conversely, the longer travel distance of the Piano switch may appeal to those who prefer a more pronounced keypress, delivering a satisfying depth that some users find more comfortable and easier to control. Ultimately, the choice between these switches boils down to personal preference: those who like a more swift and abrupt feel might gravitate toward the Hibiscus, while users seeking a more traditional and hearty typing experience may prefer the Durock Piano.
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 Durock Piano has an MSRP of $6.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Piano for $5.57.
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 is characterized by a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. This lively auditory feedback can enhance the typing experience, making it enjoyable and engaging. In contrast, the Durock Piano switch presents a deep, creamy sound profile that is more subdued yet rich, evoking a bassy tone that adds depth during key presses. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences; however, the Hibiscus leans toward a brighter and more pronounced sound, while the Piano embraces a lower and richer resonance. Keep in mind that the overall sound can also be influenced by your choice of keyboard, plate materials, and keycap profiles.
In terms of feel, the HMX Hibiscus switch is renowned for its unparalleled smoothness and an ultra-light actuation force, translating to a comfortable and responsive typing experience that is easy on the fingers. On the other hand, the Durock Piano switches boast a frictionless and silky feel, providing a remarkably smooth travel with minimal resistance. This makes both switches exemplary in their ability to deliver a seamless and enjoyable typing experience, though the Hibiscus may cater more to those who prefer a lighter touch, while the Piano excels in smooth travel without feeling constrained.
In conclusion, both the HMX Hibiscus and Durock Piano switches offer distinct yet enjoyable qualities in sound and feel. The Hibiscus captivates with its clacky and crispy sound alongside an ultra-light touch, whereas the Piano enchants with its bassy tone and ultra-smooth operation. Personal preference will ultimately dictate which switch is more suitable for you, but both promise an excellent typing experience, making either a commendable choice for a mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Hibiscus and the Durock Piano linear switches, your preferences in typing feel, sound, and actuation force will guide your choice. If you value a light touch with a less strenuous keypress, and you're looking for an exceptionally smooth and poppy typing experience, the Hibiscus switch is the way to go. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a crisper auditory feedback combined with a quick response. On the other hand, if you prefer a more robust feel with a richer, deeper sound, the Durock Piano switches are an excellent choice. Their medium-heavy actuation force provides a satisfying tactile resistance, which some users find preferable for prolonged typing sessions, especially in gaming contexts. The Piano switches offer a luxurious glide and silky smoothness that enhances every keystroke, giving a uniquely pleasant typing experience. Ultimately, your selection should align with whether you lean towards a lighter, more responsive switch or a heavier, more substantial one that envelops you in a rich auditory embrace.