Gazzew LT vs. HMX Lucky
An in-depth look at the Gazzew LT and the HMX Lucky switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switches, the Gazzew LT and the HMX Lucky both offer unique benefits that cater to different typing preferences. The Gazzew LT switches, adorned in a charming lilac hue, deliver an auditory experience characterized by a deep, resonant thockiness, appealing to users who appreciate a more robust and bassy feel with each keystroke. Their seamless glide provides an effortless typing experience that many gamers and typists find alluring. On the other hand, the HMX Lucky switches present a softer, glittery aesthetic, embodying a neutral and deeply satisfying typing experience. Known for their clacky and bouncy characteristics, the Lucky switches excel in providing a polished feel that can invigorate your daily typing tasks. While both options are linear switches designed for smooth keystrokes, the LT leans towards a thocky bass experience while the Lucky focuses on a more playful, silky touch. 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
N/A
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gazzew LT and the HMX Lucky keyboards provide a fascinating point of comparison, particularly when examining how they influence the acoustic properties and tactile experience of the switches. The Gazzew LT features a proprietary plastic blend often referred to as "boba plastic" for both its top and bottom housings. This material is designed to deliver a rich and deep sound profile due to its inherent softness, which allows it to absorb sound effectively. In contrast, the HMX Lucky utilizes traditional nylon for both its top and bottom housings. While nylon is renowned as a staple material in the keyboard community, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, it does not possess the proprietary nuances of the Gazzew blend.
Despite the differences in branding and material composition, the tonal characteristics produced by the Gazzew LT and HMX Lucky keyboards may yield similar results in practice. Both the Gazzew blend and nylon are characterized by their softness, which contributes to a duller and rounder sound profile as they absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics. Thus, when typing on either keyboard, users can expect a pleasing auditory experience, marked by a reduction in harshness and an emphasis on a fuller sound. The acoustic performance will largely hinge on the bottom housing, which influences the bottom-out sound—an area where both materials excel.
However, the impact of each housing material on the overall typing experience remains nuanced. The Gazzew LT's proprietary blend might provide unique acoustic qualities that differentiate it from nylon, especially in how the sound is perceived when the key is released. The top housing of the Gazzew LT is engineered to enhance the sound profile while lifting off the key, while the nylon in the HMX Lucky may present a more consistent sound quality throughout the keystroke. Therefore, while they both leverage the advantages of softer materials to create a deeper and richer acoustic environment, the subtleties in their specific compositions could lead to distinct user experiences when typing on each keyboard.
Weight
When comparing the Gazzew LT linear switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch, notable differences arise in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Gazzew LT has an unspecified actuation force but features a bottom out force of 65 grams, which classifies it as medium-heavy. In stark contrast, the Lucky switch offers an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, categorizing it as light. This discrepancy suggests that the Lucky switch is more suitable for users who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the Gazzew LT may appeal to those who favor a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force. Overall, the HMX Lucky is the lighter option, making it ideal for prolonged use, whereas the Gazzew LT presents a heavier, potentially more satisfying keystroke experience for users seeking additional tactile feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gazzew LT linear switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch, the Gazzew LT stands out with a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the HMX Lucky features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This difference indicates that the Gazzew LT is the shorter option, making it a more responsive choice for gamers who favor quick key presses. Conversely, the HMX Lucky, with its greater travel distance, may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel under their fingers, as it provides a deeper keypress. Ultimately, your preference between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize speed or a more traditional typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Lucky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lucky for $2.99.
The Gazzew LT comes in at $6.50 per 10 switches.
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 Gazzew LT linear switch delivers a rich auditory experience characterized by a deep, resonant thockiness, often described as being bassy and low-pitched. This results in a typing sound that is satisfying to many users, echoing a "thud" or soft "knock" with each keystroke. In contrast, the HMX Lucky linear switch leans in an entirely different direction, showcasing a clacky sound profile that is sharp and snappy. This creates a brighter, more percussive auditory experience that might appeal to those who prefer a more punctuated feedback with their typing. Therefore, if you're seeking a muted, thocky sound, the LTs would serve you well, while those who favor a more lively, clacky noise might opt for the Luckys.
Regarding the feel of these switches, the Gazzew LT provides a seamless glide with every keystroke, which suggests an overall smooth experience, but lacks specific descriptors to further elaborate on its tactile feedback. On the other hand, the HMX Lucky switches are well-regarded for their bouncy nature and a silky-smooth typing experience. They provide a spring-like feedback that creates a more dynamic interaction with each key press, along with a polished finish that enhances the smoothness and reduces resistance during typing. Users of the Lucky switches can anticipate a more responsive and lively feel compared to the subtlety of the LTs.
In conclusion, if you are deciding between the Gazzew LT and HMX Lucky linear switches, your choice will largely depend on your preferences for sound and feel. The Gazzew LT offers a deep, thocky sound with a seamless glide, making it suitable for those who appreciate a richer auditory environment without much tactile distraction. Conversely, the HMX Lucky switches provide a brighter, clacky sound paired with a bouncy and silky feel, catering to those who prefer a more animated typing experience. Ultimately, whether you gravitate towards the thockiness of the LT or the clackiness of the Lucky, both can provide satisfying results tailored to your specific typing style.
Conclusion
To wrap up, the choice between Gazzew LT linear switches and HMX Lucky linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preference in both feel and sound profile. If you favor a medium-heavy typing experience with a deeper, thocky sound, the Gazzew LT is an excellent choice, especially if you enjoy a rich auditory feedback while typing. The LT’s 65-gram bottom-out force caters well to those who prefer a more substantial feel under their fingers, making it ideal for both typists and gamers looking for an immersive experience. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter, more casual typing style with a crisp clack and a bouncy, silky sensation, the HMX Lucky switches may be your best bet. With a bottom-out force of only 43 grams, these switches provide an exhilarating responsiveness that can enhance your typing speed and comfort. In sum, choose the LT for a compelling, thocky sound and a heavier feel, and opt for the Lucky for its playful, lighter feedback and satisfying clacky sound, ensuring your mechanical keyboard perfectly aligns with your typing style.