HMX Lucky vs. Bsun Olive
An in-depth look at the HMX Lucky and the Bsun Olive switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between different styles tailored to varying preferences and typing experiences. The HMX Lucky, known for its softer and glittery nylon housings, provides a neutral and deeply satisfying feel, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate a smooth, uninterrupted keypress typical of linear switches. In contrast, the Bsun Olive, with its robust all-POM construction, offers a pronounced tactile feedback accompanied by a resonant sound profile that creates an invigorating auditory experience. While the Lucky caters to users desiring a lightweight and seamless typing experience, the Olive appeals to those seeking a more tactile and audible feedback during their interactions. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Lucky and Bsun Olive switches showcase distinct top housing materials—nylon for the Lucky and POM for the Olive—resulting in varying auditory experiences when typing. Nylon, as used in the Lucky, is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition. This softness contributes to a more absorbed sonic quality, creating a sound that is duller yet rounder, which many find appealing for prolonged typing sessions. On the other hand, the POM material utilized in the Olive's top housing, while also producing a deeper and muted sound, offers a unique auditory signature that differs in texture and clarity. This distinction means that while both switches can elicit similar sound profiles, the characteristics of each material contribute specific nuances, enriching the overall typing experience.
When examining the bottom housings, we find a parallel in material choice, with both the Lucky and Olive switching to nylon and POM, respectively. Much like the top housing, the nylon bottom housing of the Lucky enhances the overall sound profile, emphasizing a rounded and deep sound that complements its top counterpart. Conversely, the POM bottom housing in the Olive continues to exhibit a muted yet pleasing sound, fostering a unique auditory experience. The bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out feel and sound of a keypress, leading to varied tactile feedback for the user. Thus, the impact of the materials used in both switches contributes largely to their overall performance, yet remains split between the tension of each housing.
In summary, while both the HMX Lucky and Bsun Olive switches draw upon the traditional pros and cons associated with their respective materials, the distinct differences in top and bottom housing inevitably influence their overall sound profiles and tactile experiences. The nylon used in the Lucky provides it with a classic warmth and deeper sound, while the Olive's POM housing delivers a unique version of muted richness. Despite this contrast, both switches can achieve similar satisfying auditory results, as they share a common ground in the deeper sound signature, largely stemming from their bottom housing designs. Ultimately, users may find that either switch offers compelling performance, depending on individual priorities in typing feel and sound customizations.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch, there are notable differences that cater to various typing preferences. The HMX Lucky switch features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it ideal for those who favor a lightweight option for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Bsun Olive switch has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and an even more substantial bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more pronounced tactile feedback that some typists appreciate for a satisfying keystroke experience. Therefore, the Lucky switch is suitable for users seeking a lighter touch, while the Olive switch aligns better with those who prefer a firmer force during typing. The distinct differences in their force specifications suggest that users will experience varied tactile sensations depending on their choice, leading to either a more effortless or a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX Lucky linear switch features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Bsun Olive tactile switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that when pressing the Lucky switch, users will experience a deeper and more substantial feel compared to the Olive, which may feel more responsive but potentially abrupt for some. Those who prioritize quick response times in gaming might lean towards the Olive due to its shorter travel distance, whereas users who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback may prefer the Lucky's longer travel distance. Overall, the Lucky switch offers a more traditional and hearty feel, while the Olive caters to the trend of shorter distances favored by many today.
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 Bsun Olive has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Olive for $4.70.
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 linear switch is characterized by its softer, more muted acoustics, contributing to a typing experience that is smooth and less intrusive. This quality makes it a suitable choice for users who prefer a quieter keyboard setup. On the other hand, the Bsun Olive tactile switch produces a resonant and deep sound that is both engaging and satisfying, thanks to its all-POM housings. The auditory experience of the Olive is sharper and more pronounced, elevating the tactile satisfaction with each keystroke. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can vary significantly based on the keyboard plate and keycap materials used, so the overall experience may differ with different setups.
When examining the feel of these switches, the Lucky switch offers a neutral and deeply satisfying typing experience, which is often described as lightweight and comfortable. This makes it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a smooth and effortless keypress. In contrast, the Bsun Olive tactile switch is designed for a more invigorating experience, characterized by medium weight and significant tactile feedback. The Olive's tactile bump is both pronounced and sharp, providing a clear distinction with each actuation, which enhances the immersive quality of typing. Its snappy response, driven by a unique stem design, creates a lively engagement that adds to the overall typing experience.
Overall, both switches present unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The HMX Lucky linear switch leans towards a smoother typing experience with less auditory feedback, making it ideal for quieter environments or users who favor less tactile distraction. In contrast, the Bsun Olive tactile switch offers a rich auditory and tactile experience, perfect for those who appreciate pronounced feedback and a more immersive typing session. Selecting between these two will ultimately depend on whether you prioritize a softer, linear response or a more tactile, resonant experience.
Conclusion
In summary, your choice between the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch will largely depend on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter switch that offers a smooth, neutral typing experience with a satisfying feel, the Lucky might be the better option for you. Its 43-gram bottom-out force makes it ideal for long typing sessions where fatigue could be a concern, and its softer, glittery nylon housing adds a unique aesthetic and tactile quality. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more pronounced tactile sensation and don’t mind a bit more resistance with the 65-gram bottom-out force, the Olive could be exactly what you’re looking for. This switch’s all-POM housings produce a deep, resonant sound paired with a sharp tactile bump, creating an invigorating and snappy typing experience. In essence, opt for the Lucky if you value lightness and smoothness, while the Olive is ideal if you crave tactile feedback and a more engaging auditory experience as you type.
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