HMX Hibiscus vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the HMX Hibiscus and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves contemplating the unique offerings of different models. The HMX Hibiscus switch stands out with its ultra-light actuation force and a delightful sound profile that is both clacky and poppy, promising a truly distinctive typing experience that many users find unparalleled. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie, made entirely from POM, emphasizes affordability without sacrificing quality, boasting a thocky sound that conveys a satisfying depth during keystrokes. While the Hibiscus appeals to those seeking an ultra-smooth and crisp feedback, the Smoothie attracts users who prefer a rich and subdued auditory experience accompanied by remarkable performance. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your typing style and preferences.
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
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
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
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Hibiscus and Gateron Smoothie both utilize distinctive materials for their switch housings, which contribute significantly to the typing experience. The Hibiscus features a nylon top and bottom housing. Nylon is known for its softer properties, which lend to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. This material effectively absorbs sound, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience that can enhance the satisfaction of each keystroke. Conversely, the Gateron Smoothie employs POM for its top and bottom housings, a material recognized for creating a unique and pleasing sound. While POM also produces a deeper, more muted sound profile, it offers a different textural experience due to its inherent properties when compared to nylon.
Despite the differences in materials, the Hibiscus and Smoothie can yield similar typing results through their respective sound profiles. Both switches promote a deep and satisfying auditory feedback when pressed, albeit achieved through distinct acoustic properties. The softer nylon of the Hibiscus contributes to this fuller sound, while the POM used in the Smoothie achieves a similar effect, offering a gratifying experience for users who appreciate muted soundscapes. However, the characteristics of each housing material influence different aspects of the switch interaction; the Hibiscus is likely to provide a rounder, more resonant sound during key release, while the Smoothie features a unique sound signature due to its POM composition.
In practical terms, the experience of typing on each switch may have subtle differences in feel and sound sources, rooted in the materials used. The bottom housing of each switch plays a pivotal role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel, where the Hibiscus's nylon construction may impart a softer, more cushioned effect compared to the Smoothie's POM, which might lend a slightly crisper bottom-out sensation. Ultimately, while the distinct materials offer unique tactile experiences, the Hibiscus and Smoothie both deliver satisfying auditory results, appealing to enthusiasts who favor deeper sounds during their typing sessions.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, we see some differences in their actuation forces and bottom out specifications. The Hibiscus has an actuation force of 42 grams, while the Smoothie has a slightly lighter actuation force of 40 grams, making the Smoothie the lighter option overall. In terms of bottom out force, the Hibiscus measures 48 grams, indicating a clear threshold needed to fully depress the switch. However, the bottom out force for the Smoothie is unknown, which leaves some uncertainty regarding its resistance when fully engaged. For users who prefer lighter switches suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Smoothie would be more appealing due to its lower actuation force. Conversely, the Hibiscus offers a slightly heavier bottom out feel, which some typists might appreciate for a more substantial typing experience. In summary, while both switches offer a low actuation force, the Hibiscus provides a defined bottom out force, whereas the Smoothie's bottom out characteristics remain to be revealed.
Travel distance
The HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch exhibit slightly different travel distances, with the Hibiscus measuring 3.5 mm and the Smoothie at 3.6 mm. This makes the Hibiscus the shorter option, while the Smoothie offers a marginally longer travel distance. For gamers or those seeking quicker response times, the Hibiscus may provide a more immediate feel due to its reduced travel distance. Conversely, users who appreciate a more pronounced sensation when pressing keys might prefer the Gateron Smoothie's longer travel distance, as it can offer a more substantial depth with each keystroke. Despite their close measurements, the 0.1 mm difference could impact the overall typing experience, influencing personal preference in terms of responsiveness versus depth.
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 Gateron Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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 is characterized by a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, making it a lively choice for those who appreciate auditory feedback while typing. While the Hibiscus may provide a more pronounced sound, the Gateron Smoothie offers a thocky sound that produces deep, rich tones, described as a low-pitched and subdued sound. This creates a softer auditory experience that contrasts with the Hibiscus’s sharper sound profile. Ultimately, both switches provide distinctive audio feedback, making them suitable for different preferences, with the Hibiscus appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced sound and the Smoothie serving those who prefer a deeper, more muted auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the HMX Hibiscus switch boasts an ultra-light actuation force that enhances its smoothness, providing a pristine typing experience. In comparison, the Gateron Smoothie is noted for a buttery, creamy, and silky feel, ensuring a smooth and effortless keystroke experience. The Smoothie's seamless typing sensation can be attributed to its POM construction, which further enhances the fluidity of keystrokes. While both switches aim to deliver an exceptionally smooth typing experience, the Hibiscus focuses on lightweight actuation and responsiveness, whereas the Smoothie emphasizes a luxurious, gliding motion as your fingers traverse the keys.
In summary, both the HMX Hibiscus and Gateron Smoothie linear switches have their unique strengths that cater to varying preferences. The Hibiscus switch stands out with its clacky sound and lightweight responsiveness, ideal for those who value audible feedback and ease of actuation. Conversely, the Smoothie excels in providing a deeper tonal quality with a luxurious feel, making it perfect for users seeking a creamy and smooth typing experience. Depending on your priorities, either switch can deliver an enjoyable typing experience, and the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Hibiscus and the Gateron Smoothie linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you’re someone who enjoys a lightweight feel and a more tactile auditory experience, the Hibiscus switch, with its light actuation force and distinctive clacky sound, could be ideal for you. Its unique poppy and crispy sound signature will resonate well if you appreciate auditory feedback during your typing sessions. On the other hand, if you want a switch that shines in smoothness and affordability without sacrificing quality, the Gateron Smoothie could be the better option. With its thocky sound profile and a creamy, buttery keystroke feel, it’s perfect for individuals who prefer a deeper, rich typing experience that doesn't overwhelm the senses. Ultimately, your choice should reflect the balance of sound and feel that you find most gratifying, ensuring that your mechanical keyboard experience aligns with your individual typing habits and preferences.
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