HMX Lucky vs. Cherry MX Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the HMX Lucky and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, two popular contenders are the HMX Lucky and the Cherry MX Speed Silver, both of which are linear switches but cater to different preferences and use cases. The HMX Lucky is celebrated for its softer and glittery nylon housings, delivering a typing experience that feels neutral yet satisfying, making it an excellent option for those who prioritize a smooth and comfortable feel during extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is renowned for its exceptional rapid response, featuring a full height that enhances speed with low spring resistance for an instant trigger. This makes the Speed Silver a prime choice for gamers, where every millisecond counts. While the Lucky appeals to typists seeking a balanced and enjoyable typing experience, the Speed Silver is tailored for performance-driven users. 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
3.40 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 HMX Lucky and Cherry MX Speed Silver switches both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, which is noteworthy given that nylon is a classic material within the realm of mechanical switches. Both switches provide a unique typing experience characterized by a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is attributable to the inherent properties of nylon, a relatively softer plastic that tends to absorb sound more effectively than its harder counterparts. As such, users of either switch can expect a similar auditory experience, marked by a duller and rounder sound when typing, essentially rendering both options appealing for users who enjoy a quieter typing atmosphere.
A deeper comparison reveals that even though both the Lucky and Speed Silver switches use identical housing materials, the specific design and engineering of each switch might lead to variations in feel and performance. The way that the nylon absorbs sound means that while the auditory aspect may be comparable, the tactile feedback during typing can diverge depending on the total switch design, including spring strength and stem shape. For users who prioritize sound dampening during their typing sessions, both options will yield satisfactory results, but the overall experience may differ due to these other design features.
Moreover, while the nylon housing allows both switches to deliver a substantially similar sound profile, the functional dynamics also hinge on the characteristics of the bottom housing, which influences bottom-out sound and feel more significantly. Users pressing down on either switch will benefit from the same noise-reducing quality that nylon provides. However, the user's interaction with the top housing upon releasing a key might manifest differently, potentially due to the nuances of each switch's actuation point and feel. Therefore, despite the homogeneity in housing materials, individual preferences relating to typing experience could sway a user's final choice between the HMX Lucky and Cherry MX Speed Silver switches.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The Lucky switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it feel more forgiving for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming. In contrast, the MX Speed Silver has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams, suggesting a firmer keystroke for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. However, the bottom out force for the Speed Silver is unknown, which means we cannot directly compare this aspect. Overall, if you're looking for a switch that minimizes effort and fatigue, the HMX Lucky is the lighter option, while the Cherry MX Speed Silver appeals more to users who like a stronger, more tactile feedback with its heavier actuation force.
Travel distance
When comparing the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, the primary difference lies in their travel distances. The HMX Lucky has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Cherry MX Speed Silver features a shorter distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Lucky switch offers a deeper feel, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial keypress, providing a sense of tactile feedback. In contrast, the Speed Silver, with its shorter travel distance, is designed for quicker responses, making it a more suitable choice for gamers seeking faster actuation times. Ultimately, if you value responsiveness and speed, the Cherry MX Speed Silver would be the better option; however, if you favor a more traditional and deeper keystroke, the HMX Lucky would suit your preferences better.
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 Speed Silver 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 Speed Silver 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
In terms of sound, the HMX Lucky switch's characteristics are currently unknown, making it difficult to provide a direct comparison. However, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is notable for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile. This means that when pressed, it produces a deep, rich sound with a satisfying thud, making it appealing for users who enjoy auditory feedback during their typing or gaming sessions. The resulting sound can be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard construction and keycap material, but the inherent properties of the Speed Silver switch deliver a distinctive low-toned experience.
Regarding feel, the HMX Lucky switch also lacks specific details, which creates a gap in assessment. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is characterized by its textured, or somewhat scratchy, sensation during use. This texture introduces noticeable friction when keys are pressed, which can be a point of preference among typists. While some users might appreciate the tactile feedback of the textured feel, others may find it less inviting than a smoother typing experience.
In conclusion, while the subjective qualities of the HMX Lucky switch remain unclear, the Cherry MX Speed Silver provides a robust auditory and tactile experience ideal for fast-paced gaming scenarios. The Rich sound profile and textured feel of the Speed Silver switch ensure that it is a reliable choice for those who prioritize performance and feedback. To select the most suitable switch, it's essential to weigh these factors against personal preferences, keeping in mind that sound and feel can vary with different keyboard configurations and materials.
Conclusion
To wrap up, your choice between the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch ultimately hinges on your intended use and personal preferences. If you're seeking a tactile and satisfying typing experience with a lightweight feel, the HMX Lucky is a strong candidate. Its softer nylon housing offers a neutral yet deeply enjoyable feedback, making it suitable for general typing, office work, or even casual gaming. The beneficial aspect of the Lucky’s low bottom-out force of 43 grams also makes it a great choice for those who prefer a lighter touch, creating a fluid and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, if you're a serious gamer who prioritizes speed and precision, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is specifically designed for rapid response performance. With its low spring resistance and instant actuation, it provides a competitive edge where every millisecond counts. Although it has a textured feel that could be somewhat pronounced, this switch rewards you with a deeper, more resonant sound, enhancing the overall gaming experience. Ultimately, it’s all about what feels right to you and matches your specific requirements, whether you're focused on typing comfort or the fastest response time in gaming.
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