Jerrzi Honey Bean vs. HMX Sunset Gleam

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Jerrzi Honey Bean and the HMX Sunset Gleam present two distinct yet appealing options for enthusiasts and casual users alike. The Honey Bean switches are celebrated for their light and feathery linear action, coupled with a silent operation that makes them an ideal choice for office settings or shared spaces where noise levels should be kept to a minimum. Their easy-to-press design offers a muted yet enjoyable typing experience, appealing to those who prioritize discretion in their keystrokes. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam, also known as the Duck Duck switch, stands out with its unique combination of materials that produce a subtly satisfying clack at top-out, elevated by HMX's renowned factory lubrication. This switch caters to users who appreciate a tactile feedback in their typing experience. Choosing between the two boils down to personal preference—whether you lean towards the Whisper-quiet ease of the Honey Bean or the delightful sound and feel of the Sunset Gleam. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Jerrzi Honey Bean Linear

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$4.00

$3.59 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Jerrzi Honey Bean and the HMX Sunset Gleam both utilize distinct materials in their housing compositions, leading to unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences in typing experiences. The Honey Bean's top housing is made from POM (polyoxymethylene), which is known for producing a pleasingly muted sound profile that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam features a polycarbonate top housing which creates a sharper, more resonant sound due to the material's stiffness. This notable difference in sound characteristics can significantly influence the overall auditory experience while typing, providing users with options that align with their aesthetic and sonic preferences.

When looking at the bottom housings, an intriguing contrast arises between the two switches. The Honey Bean uses a POM bottom housing, which complements its muted sound profile by delivering a rounded and deep auditory experience. On the other hand, the HMX Sunset Gleam employs a nylon bottom housing, a classic choice known for its ability to absorb sound and produce a fuller, deeper sound profile. Both switches showcase a commitment to creating desirable auditory feedback, but they approach it from different angles, with the Honey Bean leaning towards a uniformity in sound dampening and the Sunset Gleam embracing the nuances that nylon brings.

Ultimately, even with these differences in materials, users can expect to achieve satisfying sound profiles from both switches. The POM housing in the Honey Bean rounds out the sound signature towards a more plush experience, while the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Sunset Gleam offers clarity and depth. Collectively, both switches illustrate how varying materials can affect sound and feel, yet still provide a high-quality user experience. Thus, those who prioritize different aspects—from muted, soft tones to crisp, clear sounds—will find that these switches cater to their respective preferences while retaining a foundation of excellence in keyboard design.

Weight

When comparing the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, both switches share the same actuation force of 42 grams, which means they require an equal amount of force to trigger a keystroke. This similarity suggests that typists and gamers who prefer a lighter touch will have a comparable experience when activating either switch. However, the bottom out force reveals a key difference: the Honey Bean's bottom out force is unspecified, while the Sunset Gleam has a bottom out force of 48 grams. This indicates that the Sunset Gleam provides a slightly firmer feel when fully pressed down, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. In summary, while both switches have the same actuation force, the Sunset Gleam is considered the heavier option due to its defined bottom out force, making it potentially less suitable for extended typing sessions compared to the lighter feeling of the Honey Bean, though its bottom out force remains unknown.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, the Honey Bean features a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Sunset Gleam has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference indicates that the Honey Bean provides a more substantial keypress experience, which may be preferred by users looking for a deeper feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Sunset Gleam's shorter travel distance could appeal to those who favor quicker response times and a more responsive action typical of shallower switches. Therefore, for a heartier depth in keystrokes, the Honey Bean is the better choice, while the Sunset Gleam is better suited for users who prioritize speed and response.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Jerrzi Honey Bean switches are particularly noted for their muted operation. This means they produce a softer and quieter sound than many traditional mechanical keyboard switches, making them an excellent choice for environments where noise levels need to be kept in check. This discreet auditory profile allows for a focused typing experience without disturbing those around you. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam switches lack specific details regarding their sound characteristics, which leaves their auditory presence somewhat uncertain. However, it’s worth mentioning that any differences in sound can also be influenced by the keyboard's construction and the materials used for keycaps, meaning users might still experience satisfying acoustics when using these switches.

Regarding feel, the Honey Bean switches excel with their easy-to-press and feathery actuation. Users will find that the gentle resistance and light actuation force they provide make typing comfortable and minimizes finger fatigue, especially beneficial during extended use. The responsive nature of these switches transforms the typing experience into a seamless and enjoyable endeavor. The feel of the Sunset Gleam switches, however, remains unspecified in the information provided; thus, it’s impossible to make a direct comparison. Typically, users might expect a more tactile feedback or premium feel from a new linear switch, but without additional details, it's difficult to ascertain how they measure up against the Honey Bean.

In summary, the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch is a standout option for those seeking a quiet typing experience with a light and effortless feel, making it particularly suitable for shared spaces. The HMX Sunset Gleam, while offering a different character, requires more information to fully assess its aural and tactile qualities. If the Sunset Gleam provides a lighter option with good acoustics, users might enjoy a similarly satisfying experience, but the exact outcomes remain to be discovered. Ultimately, personal preferences will play a significant role in determining which switch aligns better with your typing style and environment.

Conclusion

To sum up, choosing between the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch largely depends on your specific needs and preferences in a keyboard. If you find yourself typing in a shared environment or office setting, where noise levels should be kept to a minimum, the Honey Bean’s silent operation and muted sound profile make it the ideal choice. Its easy-to-press and feathery feel ensures that you can type comfortably for extended periods without feeling fatigued. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a bit more tactile feedback and don’t mind a slightly louder sound, the HMX Sunset Gleam is a great alternative. With its satisfying clack and excellent factory lube, it can enhance your typing experience for gaming or creative work. Ultimately, consider what environment you’ll be using your keyboard in and how much sound and tactile response you desire, and you’ll find the switch that best fits your typing style.

Mentioned in this article

Jerrzi Honey Bean Linear

$4.00

$3.59 per 10

Learn more

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more