HMX Hibiscus vs. Jerrzi Poseidon
An in-depth look at the HMX Hibiscus and the Jerrzi Poseidon switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Hibiscus and the Jerrzi Poseidon each offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The HMX Hibiscus switch is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth keypress and a tactile experience that brings a delightful clacking, popping, and crispy sound to each keystroke. With an ultra-light actuation force that ranks above 80% of other switches, it appeals to those who seek a responsive and effortless typing experience, making it a favorite for extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, while the Jerrzi Poseidon lacks a specific standout feature in its description, it is also categorized as a linear switch, which generally means smooth and consistent key presses without the tactile feedback found in other switch types. This can make it an ideal choice for users who prioritize silence and dependability, whether for productivity or late-night gaming sessions. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct advantages depending on your typing style and preferences; 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Box
Stem material
T3
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Hibiscus and Jerrzi Poseidon utilize different housing materials that significantly influence their sound profiles and typing experiences. The Hibiscus employs nylon for both its top and bottom housings, a classic choice known for its softer characteristics. This softness naturally absorbs sound, leading to a deeper and fuller auditory profile. As a result, the switches produce a more rounded and subdued sound when typing, contributing to a quieter environment. In contrast, the Poseidon utilizes POM (polyoxymethylene) for its top and bottom housings, offering an alternative auditory experience that is still on the deeper side but ultimately presents a unique sound signature. The design of POM yields a pleasing yet more muted sound, making it distinctively different from the Hibiscus’s nylon.
Despite the differences in materials—nylon for the Hibiscus and POM for the Poseidon—both switches share an underlying quality of achieving deeper sound profiles. The Hibiscus's nylon housings excel in sound absorption, while the Poseidon's POM housings enhance the pleasant tonal qualities of the switch despite maintaining a more muted overall sound. While the Hibiscus’s deeper and fuller sound is attributed to the sound-absorbing properties of nylon, the Poseidon's unique sound stems from the natural characteristics of POM. This means that, although their experience may feel distinct, both switches promote a quieter typing environment indicative of their respective materials.
In terms of tactile feedback, the differences in housing materials will also affect the overall feel of the switches. The Hibiscus, with its nylon housings, may offer a softer touch and a tactile response that is generally smoother when bottoming out. Conversely, the Poseidon’s POM housings, while still muted, could impart a bit more responsiveness upon actuation, reflecting the slightly firmer nature of POM compared to nylon. Consequently, while both switches aim to provide enjoyable typing experiences with deeper sound profiles, the choice of materials distinctly influences both the auditory and tactile qualities, catering to different user preferences. Ultimately, typing on either switch will result in a relatively quieter experience, thanks to their effective sound handling in different ways.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch, we find notable differences in their actuation forces. The Hibiscus features an actuation force of 42 grams, while the Poseidon is slightly lighter at 40 grams. This means that the Poseidon may offer a more effortless typing experience, appealing to those who prefer lighter switches for extended use. However, the Hibiscus has a defined bottom out force of 48 grams, providing a tangible feedback when the key is fully pressed down. In contrast, the Poseidon does not have a published bottom out force, making it unclear how responsive it will be when pressed all the way down. As it stands, the Hibiscus offers a balance of lightness and clear bottoming out, while the Poseidon's lack of bottom out force information prevents a full comparison, leaving potential users uncertain about its overall feedback during keystrokes.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch, we see a slight difference that can cater to different preferences among users. The Hibiscus boasts a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Poseidon measures at 3.4 mm. This means that the Hibiscus has a longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who appreciate a more substantial feedback when pressing keys, as it provides a feeling of depth. On the other hand, the Poseidon, with its shorter 3.4 mm travel distance, aligns well with the preferences of gamers who seek quicker response times in their keystrokes. Ultimately, both switches offer an engaging experience; however, if you're after less travel for a snappier feel, the Poseidon will suit that need a bit better, while the Hibiscus is better for those who prefer more travel.
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 Jerrzi Poseidon has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Poseidon for $3.59.
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
The HMX Hibiscus linear switch boasts a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, enhancing the auditory experience during typing. This engaging sound profile provides a pleasant feedback layer, making keystrokes more enjoyable and adding character to the overall experience. Although the Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch lacks specific sound characteristics, it’s important to note that the sound output of any switch can also be significantly influenced by the keyboard's design and the type of keycaps used. Therefore, even without detailed information on the Poseidon’s audio qualities, you might find that using different boards and keycaps can yield satisfying sound results.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Hibiscus excels in offering an unparalleled smoothness that enhances the typing experience. This ultra-light actuation force positions it among the top performers in its category, making it notably easy to press keys with minimal resistance. Unfortunately, the feel of the Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch is unspecified, leaving us without a direct comparison. However, depending on its design and implementation, the Poseidon may provide a different or similarly delightful typing sensation, especially when paired with complementary accessories.
In conclusion, the HMX Hibiscus linear switch is a standout option for those seeking both an engaging auditory experience and a remarkably smooth tactile feel. While the Jerrzi Poseidon switch lacks detailed information on its sound and feel, it is essential to remember that many subjective qualities in mechanical keyboards can be impacted by the overall keyboard build and component choices. If you value the aspects provided by the Hibiscus, you may also achieve a fulfilling typing experience with the Poseidon, particularly through experimentation with various setups.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch, it’s essential to consider your typing preferences and the kind of experience you’re seeking. If you value a light touch with a smooth actuation and a satisfyingly crisp sound, the Hibiscus is an excellent choice, especially suited for long typing sessions or gaming marathons where speed and responsiveness are paramount. Its bottom-out force of 48 grams caters to those who prefer a gentle keystroke, allowing you to tap away for hours without fatigue. On the other hand, if you find yourself attracted to more nuanced switch characteristics or are still exploring your preferences, the Poseidon, despite its unavailability in key details, might be an intriguing option to keep in mind for future models or variations. Ultimately, prioritize what feels right for your typing style—whether that’s the light, tactile feedback of the Hibiscus or the enigmatic qualities of the Poseidon—and you’ll find the perfect fit for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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