HMX Lucky vs. Outemu Black
An in-depth look at the HMX Lucky and the Outemu Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, personal preference plays a pivotal role, and two popular linear options are the HMX Lucky and the Outemu Black. The HMX Lucky switch is celebrated for its softer and glittery nylon housings, providing a unique blend of lightweight feel and neutral typing experience that many users find deeply satisfying. This makes it an attractive choice for those seeking a smooth and comfortable keypress without the distraction of tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Black switch offers a different profile, typically characterized by its sturdiness and reliability, appealing to users who may prefer a firmer feel during their typing sessions. While both switches are linear and designed to deliver a seamless experience, their distinct qualities can cater to varying preferences among typists and gamers alike. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
65g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
82g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.50 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Lucky and Outemu Black switches, it is evident that there are distinct differences that influence the sound profiles each switch produces. The HMX Lucky features a nylon top housing, known for its softer and more sound-absorbing characteristics. This choice of material results in a deeper, fuller sound profile, creating a rounded auditory experience that many typists might prefer for a quieter and more subtle keystroke. In contrast, the Outemu Black utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is characterized by its rigid nature that creates a sharper and crisper sound. The translucency of the polycarbonate not only enhances sound clarity but also allows for RGB lighting effects, adding an aesthetic versatility that the nylon top cannot provide.
Examining the bottom housings of both switches reveals a different dynamic as they share the same material: nylon. This commonality means that both switches will produce a similarly deep and resonant sound profile when the key is bottomed out. The nylon's sound-absorbing qualities contribute to a duller sound, offering a cohesive auditory experience at the lower end of the keystroke. Therefore, even though the top housings differ significantly in terms of their sound output—one offering a muted depth and the other a bright resonance—the bottom housings unify their performances to some extent by providing that rich depth upon each keystroke.
Overall, the varying combination of materials in the top and bottom housings between the HMX Lucky and Outemu Black switches results in nuanced differences in sound and feel. While the nylon bottom housing across both switches promotes a deeper sound signature at the bottoming stage, it is the top housing that presents the starkest contrast. The HMX Lucky’s nylon top keeps the sound profile more subdued, while the Outemu Black’s polycarbonate top enhances clarity and brightness. This interaction illustrates how the choice of materials in both the top and bottom of a switch contributes to a comprehensive typing experience that embodies the strengths of each material used.
Weight
The HMX Lucky linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch present a clear contrast in their actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for different typing preferences. The Lucky switch features a notably lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it an excellent choice for users who favor extended typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Outemu Black switch has a significantly heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams, catering to those who prefer a more substantial and resistive typing experience. Consequently, the HMX Lucky is better suited for users who desire a softer touch, while the Outemu Black appeals to those who appreciate a firmer push feel. As such, while both switches achieve their respective functions—the actuation force triggering the keystroke and the bottom out force confirming the complete key press—the user experience varies significantly due to the disparity in force requirements.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, the Lucky features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, whereas the Black has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Lucky the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times due to its reduced travel distance. In contrast, the Outemu Black, with its 4 mm travel, offers a more traditional feel that some users may prefer for its deeper actuation and tactile feedback. Thus, if you value quicker keystrokes and responsiveness, the HMX Lucky is the ideal choice; however, if you're looking for a more pronounced depth in your keypresses, the Outemu Black would be more suitable.
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 Outemu Black comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 linear switch offers a typing experience that is notably smooth and quiet, providing a subtle auditory environment that won’t disrupt those around you. The lightweight construction of the switch contributes to a dampened sound profile, which can appeal to users who prefer a less intrusive keyboard experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Black linear switch's sound characteristics are not defined here; however, it is generally known for its deeper thock that may resonate more depending on the build of your keyboard and choice of keycaps. With either switch, keep in mind that the overall acoustics can be influenced by several factors, including the materials used in the keyboard and the keycap design.
In terms of feel, the HMX Lucky switch stands out with its softer, lightweight nature that offers a comfortable typing experience. The neutral feedback provides a satisfying sensation without being overly forceful, making it ideal for long typing sessions. Conversely, the Outemu Black is typically characterized by a sturdier and firmer feel, requiring a bit more actuation force. This difference means that while the Lucky switch allows for a more effortless typing experience, the Black switch could be preferable for those who enjoy a more substantial tactile feedback and resistive action when they press keys.
In conclusion, while the HMX Lucky linear switch excels with its softer, quieter typing experience and lightweight feel, the Outemu Black linear switch offers a firmer feel that may appeal to those who prefer a more pronounced resistance when typing. Overall, each switch has its strengths that cater to different typing preferences, and if one were to choose switches for their keyboard, considering these subjective qualities would help guide the decision to achieve a satisfying typing experience tailored to personal tastes.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, you should consider your personal preferences and typing style. The Lucky switch, with its lighter actuation force of 43 grams, is an excellent choice if you prefer a smooth and effortless typing experience, making it particularly suitable for prolonged typing sessions or gaming where speed and responsiveness are critical. Its softer nylon housing adds to the comfort, providing a satisfying feel that many users find appealing. On the other hand, if you lean towards a more substantial switch and appreciate a firmer resistance during your keystrokes, the Outemu Black with its heavier 82 grams bottom-out force might be more to your liking. While it lacks the distinct features of the Lucky, the Black’s sturdiness can provide a reassuring feedback that some typists and gamers prefer, especially for tasks requiring a more deliberate typing style. Ultimately, your choice will depend on how you prioritize these attributes in your daily usage, whether it's lightness and comfort with the Lucky or a robust feel with the Black.
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