HMX Lucky vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the HMX Lucky and the Cherry MX Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, two popular linear options worth considering are the HMX Lucky and Cherry MX Red. The HMX Lucky switch stands out with its softer, glittery nylon housing, providing a lightweight and neutral typing experience characterized as clacky, bouncy, silky, and polished. Users often appreciate the satisfying feel as they move through each keystroke, making it a great choice for those who prefer a gentler touch. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red switch is a beloved classic known for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile. This robust switch offers a blend of responsiveness and auditory depth, categorized as thocky and textured, making it ideal for users who want a more pronounced feedback with their typing or gaming sessions. While both switches deliver a linear experience free from tactile bumps or clicks, the distinct characteristics of each can significantly impact your typing satisfaction. 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
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials used in both the HMX Lucky and Cherry MX Red switches share a striking similarity, as both feature nylon for their top and bottom housings. Nylon, known for its softer plastic characteristics, plays a crucial role in shaping the auditory experience of each switch. Typing on either switch produces a deeper and fuller sound profile attributed to nylon's sound-absorbing capabilities, which help dampen sharper tones that would typically resonate from harder plastics. This commonality means that users can expect similarly pleasant auditory experiences when clicking away on either switch, with both contributing to a more mellow and rounded sound.
While both switches utilize nylon for their housings, the interaction between different housing parts affects the overall typing experience. In the case of the HMX Lucky and Cherry MX Red, the exclusively nylon construction allows for a uniform auditory profile, with each component contributing equally to the switch's sound and feel. The impact of the bottom housing, which encounters force during a key press, will influence the bottom-out sound, while the top housing will significantly influence the sound produced upon release. Despite the same materials being used, any distinctions in design or manufacturing intricacies could lead to variances in feel and performance that are worth considering.
Ultimately, the decision between the HMX Lucky and Cherry MX Red may come down to personal preference in terms of tactile feedback and switch behavior, even when the housing materials themselves remain consistent. For users who value a quieter typing experience with minimal distraction, both switches promise an enjoyable feel. Consequently, they offer a solid choice for anyone seeking switches that create a similar auditory experience, reassuringly attributable to their nylon composition. Thus, whether one prefers the Lucky or the Red may entail more than just the materials used, inviting enthusiasts to explore the nuanced differences in tactile sensations that each switch brings to the table.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom-out forces that may influence a user's typing experience. The HMX Lucky switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom-out force of 43 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a softer touch, beneficial for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming marathons. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red switch has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams, which may appeal to users who favor a more substantial typing feel. However, the bottom-out force for the MX Red remains unknown, making it difficult to fully compare its overall resistance when pressed to the limit. Ultimately, if you're looking for a lighter switch, the HMX Lucky is the better option; if you prefer a heavier push, the Cherry MX Red is worth considering, though its lack of specified bottom-out force may affect your decision if you prioritize that characteristic.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, the two exhibit a noticeable difference. The HMX Lucky has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Cherry MX Red measures 4 mm. This makes the HMX Lucky the shorter option, appealing to those who favor quicker response times, particularly gamers. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red's longer travel distance of 4 mm may be more suitable for users who appreciate a deeper feel and the tactile feedback associated with a longer press. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on personal preference, with the Lucky providing a more responsive experience and the MX Red offering a fuller depth that some users prefer.
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 Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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 presents a clacky profile, creating a sharp and snappy auditory experience. This crisp, bright tone offers a lively character as the switches are engaged, reminiscent of the satisfying click of a traditional typewriter. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red switches produce a thocky sound, delivering a deep and rich noise upon activation. The MX Red's sound profile leans towards a more profound acoustic experience, providing a soft "knock" that adds to the overall robustness of the typing environment. While both switches can create enjoyable auditory experiences, the Lucky is more focused on a bright and sharp tone, while the MX Red leans into the rich, deep resonance of its thocky sound.
In terms of feel, the HMX Lucky switch is celebrated for its bouncy nature, providing an elastic feedback sensation that makes typing feel dynamic and energetic. Coupled with its silky and polished finish, the Lucky switch enhances the smoothness and responsiveness of key presses, resulting in a refined typing experience with minimal resistance. On the other hand, the MX Red switches have a more textured feel, often described as scratchy, which introduces a noticeable friction that some may find less comfortable compared to the luxurious experience of the Lucky switch. This textured nature of the MX Red can create a different typing personality, one that might feel more traditional for some but potentially less appealing for those accustomed to a silky smooth feedback.
Overall, both the HMX Lucky and Cherry MX Red linear switches offer distinct experiences when it comes to sound and feel. The Lucky switches excel in creating a lively, crisp auditory and tactile experience, backed by their smooth and polished finish. In contrast, the MX Red offers a richer sound and a firmer typing feel with its textured feedback. Depending on personal preferences, one may gravitate towards the responsiveness and satisfaction of the Lucky or the deeper acoustic profile and heftier sensation of the MX Red. Ultimately, you can expect to enjoy a fulfilling typing experience with either switch, provided that you choose a keyboard and keycap combination that complements their respective qualities.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you gravitate toward a more lightweight and responsive typing experience, the HMX Lucky might be the better option for you. Its 43-gram bottom-out force, combined with a bouncy and silky feel, offers a lively and satisfying experience that can enhance your typing enjoyment, making it ideal for casual use, long writing sessions, or even gaming when you appreciate a bit of feedback. The clacky sound profile may also appeal to those who like their keyboard noises to be sharp and bright. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heftier feel with a deeper auditory experience, the Cherry MX Red could be your go-to. Although its bottom-out force is less defined, the robust nature and thocky sound profile of the MX Red provide a classic and reliable typing experience that many find comforting, particularly for gaming or typing tasks where you value tactile feedback. The textural feel of this switch may cater to those who enjoy a distinct, though somewhat scratchy, typing sensation. Therefore, consider your typing style, sound preference, and the overall experience you wish to achieve when making your final decision between these two switches.
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