Bsun Jade Rosales vs. HMX Sunset Gleam
An in-depth look at the Bsun Jade Rosales and the HMX Sunset Gleam switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves drawn to distinctive options like the Bsun Jade Rosales and the HMX Sunset Gleam, both renowned linear switches that cater to different preferences within the typing community. The Jade Rosales, meticulously refined by XY Studio, boasts a year-long development process that emphasizes custom housings, stems, and advanced lubrication techniques. This results in an exceptionally smooth typing experience, ideal for users seeking a plush feel with minimal resistance. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam, also known as the Duck Duck switch, presents a delightful combination of materials that not only provides a subtle top-out but also delivers a satisfying clack, complemented by HMX's excellent factory lubrication. This switch may appeal to those who enjoy a bit more auditory feedback while retaining the linear typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing sensations 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
45g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Y3X
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Custom Milky Material
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.5mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Bsun Jade Rosales and HMX Sunset Gleam switches, the most significant similarity lies in their top housing materials, which are both made of polycarbonate. This choice of material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, a trait that enhances the auditory feedback of the switches. Polycarbonate’s rigidity allows for a clear and resonant sound, making it an excellent option for gamers and typists who enjoy a tactile experience with an increased tonal quality. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate adds an aesthetic dimension when RGB lighting is incorporated, as the illumination shines brightly through the material, highlighting the switch's design regardless of the brand.
However, the two switches diverge significantly in their bottom housing materials, with the Jade Rosales using a proprietary Custom Milky Material while the Sunset Gleam features a nylon bottom housing. The Custom Milky Material promises a unique blend of properties that could lend a distinct acoustic character to the Jade Rosales, likely creating a different sound profile than the standard nylon found in the Sunset Gleam. Nylon, on the other hand, is known for its softer texture, which absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience. This contrast between the two materials implies that while both switches can deliver satisfying user experiences, the tonal qualities will differ, particularly when pressing down on the keys.
Ultimately, the interaction between the top and bottom housing materials plays a crucial role in the overall sound and feel of each switch. The polycarbonate top housing will enhance the brighter sounds upon key release, while the Jade Rosales’s Custom Milky Material and the Sunset Gleam’s nylon bottom housings will influence the bottom-out feel and sound. Thus, users of each switch can expect to experience a harmonious blend of characteristics that reflect the distinct attributes of the materials used, leading to either a vibrant or rounded sound profile depending on the switch's design philosophy.
Weight
The Bsun Jade Rosales linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch exhibit differing actuation and bottom out forces, impacting the typing experience in distinct ways. The Jade Rosales switch features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as a medium-light switch. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it easier to press down. This discrepancy means that typists looking for a more responsive feel may prefer the Sunset Gleam, while those who enjoy a slightly more substantial push might opt for the Jade Rosales. Overall, the Sunset Gleam is the lighter switch, while the Jade Rosales is the heavier option, allowing for various preferences based on individual typing styles and comfort levels.
Travel distance
Both the Bsun Jade Rosales linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when you press down on a key for either switch, you will experience an identical distance as the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Consequently, users can expect a similar feel and response when using either switch, leading to a consistent experience in typing or gaming. Since both switches have the same travel distance, there is no distinction in terms of length between the two.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Jade Rosales has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jade Rosales for $5.39.
The HMX Sunset Gleam has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sunset Gleam for $2.99.
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 Bsun Jade Rosales linear switch is characterized by its exceptionally smooth typing experience, which is likely to lend itself to a more muted and subtle acoustic profile. This can appeal to users who prefer a quieter typing environment. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam is noted for its subtle top-out and satisfying clack, which provides a more pronounced auditory feedback during key presses. This difference will manifest distinctly in their acoustic output, making the Sunset Gleam more lively and engaging for typists who appreciate audible sound while typing. However, it is essential to remember that the overall sound will also depend on factors such as the keyboard plate material and the keycap choice, which can further influence the resulting audio experience for both switches.
Regarding feel, the Jade Rosales switch stands out for its silky smoothness, meticulously refined through custom housings and lubrication techniques that result in an incredibly satisfying keypress. This smoothness can create an almost gliding sensation that many typists find pleasurable. On the other hand, the Sunset Gleam offers a different tactile sensation, balancing smooth operation with a slight resistance at the top of the stroke, which contributes to its unique blend of feedback and comfort. This combination can provide a more engaging experience, potentially leading to better typing accuracy for users who like a bit of resistance. Across both switches, users can expect a high-quality linear feel, but the nuances between them will cater to different preferences.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Jade Rosales and HMX Sunset Gleam linear switches bring unique qualities to the table. While the Jade Rosales excels in delivering an ultra-smooth, quieter typing experience, the Sunset Gleam provides a more tactile and audible feedback. The choice between these two will ultimately come down to personal preference, as they both promise excellent performance in their own right. If you appreciate the smoothness of the Jade Rosales but are intrigued by the liveliness of the Sunset Gleam, experimenting with different keyboards and keycaps may help you find the perfect balance for your typing style.
Conclusion
To wrap up, choosing between the Bsun Jade Rosales and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switches largely depends on your personal preferences regarding actuation force, feel, and sound. If you prefer a medium-light switch with a bottom-out force of 53 grams that offers a meticulously refined and exceptionally smooth typing experience, the Jade Rosales is a fantastic choice. It's perfect for those who value a tactile precision in their keystrokes and might be looking for a switch that enhances focus and productivity during long typing sessions. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter switch at 48 grams bottom-out force, the Sunset Gleam could be your go-to. This switch is aimed at users who enjoy a subtle sound profile with a satisfying clack, making it ideal for both gaming and casual typing where you want a more responsive feel without too much resistance. Therefore, your decision should be guided by how you prioritize weight, sound, and tactile feedback in your typing or gaming experience.
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