HMX Lucky vs. Gateron Mars
An in-depth look at the HMX Lucky and the Gateron Mars switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular linear options that stand out are the HMX Lucky and the Gateron Mars. The Lucky switch is celebrated for its softer, glittery nylon housing, which provides a lightweight, neutral, and deeply satisfying typing experience that's perfect for users who prioritize comfort and feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Mars is recognized for its innovative design, featuring a POK stem paired with a durable housing made from a blend of Nylon and POM, making it an attractive choice for those seeking a combination of responsiveness and longevity. While both switches deliver smooth keystrokes ideal for both gaming and typing, they cater to slightly different preferences and styles. 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
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Lucky and Gateron Mars switches, we observe that both utilize nylon for their top housings. This choice of material is pivotal in tapping into the classic sound performance associated with nylon switches. The unique attributes of nylon contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, aligning with a specific auditory experience that enthusiasts often seek. Consequently, this shared characteristic implies that both switches will produce similarly rich acoustic outcomes when typing, reflecting the ability of nylon to absorb sound effectively, thereby producing a softer, rounder auditory signature for both models.
Contrastingly, the bottom housing materials reveal a notable divergence between the two switches. The HMX Lucky employs nylon for its bottom housing as well, thus continuing the tradition of sound absorption and enhancing the overall depth of sound produced. In this case, the nylon will contribute to both the bottom-out feel and sound profile of the switch, ensuring consistency in auditory experience across both the top and bottom sections. However, the Gateron Mars uses POM for its bottom housing, which introduces a different dimension to the sound produced. POM (polyoxymethylene) is known for generating a unique sound that is also deep and muted, but it may express slightly different acoustic nuances due to its different material properties compared to nylon.
In conclusion, while the top housings of both switches deliver a similar auditory experience owing to their shared nylon composition, the bottom housing differences introduce a variance in sound quality and feel. The Lucky’s nylon bottom housing reinforces the deep, full sound established by its top housing, while the Mars’ POM bottom housing adds a distinctive layer to the sound profile, with a somewhat muted characteristic that could alter the bottom-out experience. Therefore, while typing on both switches may yield satisfying experiences due to their nylon tops, the interchange in the bottom materials will ultimately affect the overall performance, with the Lucky promising a consistent nylon sound throughout and the Mars providing a unique sound experience at its base.
Weight
The HMX Lucky linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation forces, with the Lucky having a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Mars' 45 grams. This means that the Lucky is better suited for users who prefer a lighter touch, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons where fatigue can become a factor. In contrast, the Mars offers a heavier actuation force which some users may find more satisfying for a robust typing experience. However, the bottom-out force for the Gateron Mars switch is unknown, leaving a gap in the comparison regarding how it might feel when pressing the switch all the way down. In terms of ease of use and comfort during prolonged activities, the Lucky is the lighter option, while the Mars leans toward a heavier feel, catering to those who prefer a more substantial push.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch, it’s evident that they differ, with the Lucky having a travel distance of 3.8 mm while the Mars measures 3.6 mm. This means the Lucky switch offers a slightly deeper keypress compared to the Mars. For gamers or users who prioritize quick response times, the shorter travel distance of the Mars might be more appealing, allowing for faster actuation. Conversely, those who enjoy a more substantial feeling when typing may prefer the Lucky switch's longer travel distance, since it provides a more pronounced depth in each keypress. Thus, while the switches cater to different preferences, they both serve the diverse needs of keyboard users depending on their desired 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 Gateron Mars has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mars for $5.50.
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 HMX Lucky switch offers a softer auditory experience that contributes to a quieter typing atmosphere, appealing to those who prefer a more subdued keyboard. The Gateron Mars switch, on the other hand, produces a crisp and clean sound, which can be more pronounced, giving a satisfying auditory feedback. While both switches offer distinct sound profiles, the overall acoustic performance can vary depending on the keyboard board and keycap choices used, so you might experience different results in different setups, regardless of the switch selected.
In terms of feel, the Lucky switch is noted for its lightweight and neutral typing experience, allowing for a comfortable and effortless typing session that many find deeply satisfying. The Mars switch, featuring a unique POK stem alongside a Nylon and POM blend housing, is designed to provide a smooth and responsive feedback, with a slight emphasis on stability during keystrokes. While the Lucky offers a more laid-back and smooth feel, the Mars may provide a slightly firmer touch, catering to different typing preferences.
In conclusion, both the HMX Lucky and Gateron Mars switches have unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different user preferences. The Lucky's quieter, softer sound and lightweight, neutral feel present a relaxed typing experience, while the Mars delivers a crisper sound and a smooth yet stable keystroke. Ultimately, both switches can yield satisfying results, and the choice between them will depend on your personal preferences regarding sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch largely hinges on your typing preferences and the experience you seek. If you prefer a lighter touch with a neutral and satisfying feel, the HMX Lucky switch is an excellent option for you. Its 43g bottom-out force means it's easy to actuate, making it well-suited for extended typing sessions or fast-paced gaming without causing fatigue. The softer nylon housing contributes to a pleasant tactile response that many users find enjoyable. On the other hand, if you are intrigued by innovative designs and want to explore unique typing experiences, the Gateron Mars switch might be more appealing. Though the specific bottom-out force is not available, the combination of its POK stem and nylon-POM blend housing can provide a distinct tactile feel that may enhance your typing or gaming sessions. Each switch offers its own set of characteristics, so if sound is a key factor for you, consider how each one aligns with your noise preferences. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your personal typing style, whether you prioritize a lighter actuation with the Lucky or are curious about the innovative feel of the Mars.
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