Gazzew LT vs. HMX Sunset Gleam

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Gazzew LT and the HMX Sunset Gleam both stand out as exceptional linear switches, each offering unique attributes that cater to different preferences. The Gazzew LT switch is celebrated for its striking lilac hue and a distinctive auditory experience, delivering a deep, resonant thockiness that many enthusiasts find enchanting. Its seamless glide ensures each keystroke feels smooth and satisfying, making it ideal for those who appreciate a more bassy and thocky typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Sunset Gleam, affectionately dubbed the Duck Duck switch, combines a refined blend of materials that offer a subtle top-out and an engaging clack sound. Known for its polished, bouncy, and silky feel, the Sunset Gleam shines, particularly for users who enjoy the nuances of a resonant switch complemented by excellent factory lubrication. Both switches present compelling reasons to be favored, whether it's the LT's thocky allure or the Gleam's silky responsiveness. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your personal style.

By the numbers

Gazzew LT Linear

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$6.50 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gazzew LT and the HMX Sunset Gleam, it's evident that each switch utilizes distinct materials that influence their sound profiles significantly. The Gazzew LT features a proprietary "boba plastic" blend for both its top and bottom housings. This material is designed to be soft, which contributes to a rich and deep sound profile during both keypress and release. On the other hand, the HMX Sunset Gleam uses polycarbonate for the top housing, characterized by its stiffness, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound. This difference in material creates contrasting auditory experiences; while the LT produces a mellow tone throughout, the Sunset Gleam delivers a crisper, more defined sound, especially during key release due to its polycarbonate top.

The bottom housing of each switch further amplifies these contrasting characteristics. The Gazzew LT employs the same proprietary boba plastic, ensuring that the deeper sound profile is consistent from the bottom-out to the top-out phase. Conversely, the Sunset Gleam uses nylon for its bottom housing, a classic material known for absorbing sound and yielding a rounder, fuller auditory experience. This disparity means that while both switches can create unique sound profiles rooted in their respective materials, the LT is likely to maintain a more cohesive auditory depth throughout, whereas the Sunset Gleam will balance crispness and fullness, offering a distinctly different sensation when typing.

Overall, the combined influence of both the top and bottom housing materials in each switch highlights the importance of material selection in sound design. The Gazzew LT's homogeneous use of a softer material allows for a rich sound profile that resonates and deepens during key presses. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam's use of polycarbonate coupled with nylon creates a dynamic interplay between crisp and full sounds. For those seeking specific auditory qualities, understanding these materials provides valuable insight; while there are notable differences, utilizing switches with housing mixtures can achieve a blend of desired sound characteristics, allowing users to find a balance that suits their preferences.

Weight

The Gazzew LT linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch present contrasting characteristics in terms of their actuation and bottom out forces. The LT switch has an unspecified actuation force but features a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam boasts a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a lower bottom out force of 48 grams. This significant difference means that the Sunset Gleam is more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the LT switch might appeal to those who enjoy a stronger and more substantial feel when typing. As the Sunset Gleam is the lighter of the two switches, users prioritizing comfort for long use may find it a more favorable choice than the heavier LT switch.

Travel distance

The Gazzew LT linear switch features a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference means that if you prioritize responsiveness, the shorter LT switch may be the better choice, as it allows for quicker actuation, potentially enhancing performance in fast-paced scenarios like gaming. Conversely, the Sunset Gleam’s longer travel distance may appeal to users who favor a more substantial feel with each keystroke, resulting in a more profound typing experience. Ultimately, if you're looking for a switch that provides immediate feedback with a shorter travel, the Gazzew LT would be ideal. However, if you appreciate a bit more depth while typing, the HMX Sunset Gleam would cater better to your preferences.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gazzew LT linear switches deliver a unique auditory experience characterized by their deep, resonant thockiness. Users can expect a rich, low-pitched sound that resembles a soft “thud” or “knock” during key presses, creating an immersive and satisfying atmosphere while typing. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam switches offer a more resonant sound profile that is higher-pitched and cleaner. This sharp auditory experience provides a different kind of satisfaction, with a subtle clack at the top out. While both switches contribute distinct sounds to your typing experience, they cater to different auditory preferences.

In terms of feel, the Gazzew LT switches excel in providing a seamless glide with every keystroke, creating a straightforward smoothness that is ideal for many typists. Although specific descriptors for the feel of the LT are not provided, the focus on glide suggests an efficient typing experience. On the other hand, HMX Sunset Gleam switches are noted for their polished, bouncy, and silky characteristics. This means they not only offer reduced friction and smooth key travel but also a lively, elastic feedback that can enhance the overall typing experience. The Sunset Gleam’s combination of these textures could lead to a more tactile interaction with the keyboard.

In summary, the Gazzew LT and HMX Sunset Gleam linear switches both provide distinct and satisfying experiences, particularly in terms of sound and feel. While the LT focuses on a deeper auditory profile complemented by a seamless typing action, the Sunset Gleam leans towards a higher-pitched, resonant sound with a polished and bouncy feedback mechanism. Choosing between them will depend on whether you prefer the rich thockiness or the sharp resonance, as well as a smoother or more dynamic typing experience. Regardless of preference, both switches promise to elevate your mechanical keyboard experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between Gazzew LT linear switches and HMX Sunset Gleam linear switches largely depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you favor a medium-heavy actuation with a deeper, more resonant sound profile, the Gazzew LT will be your go-to option. These switches are perfect for those who enjoy a bit of auditory feedback while typing, providing a satisfying and muted thock that can enhance your typing experience, especially if you often type for long periods or engage in gaming where every keystroke counts. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and a more lively typing experience, the HMX Sunset Gleam is ideal, especially for those who appreciate a higher-pitched, resonant sound combined with a smooth, polished feel. The Sunset Gleam's delightful feedback and subtle clack make it a fantastic choice for both casual use and fast-paced gaming where quick responses are necessary. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your personal preferences in sound, feel, and typing sensation, allowing you to select the switch that best complements your style.

Mentioned in this article

Gazzew LT Linear

$6.50 per 10

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HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more