HMX Lucky vs. Outemu Dustproof Brown

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly influence your typing experience, particularly when comparing the HMX Lucky and the Outemu Dustproof Brown. The HMX Lucky is a linear switch, renowned for its smooth actuation and softer, glittery nylon housings that create a lightweight and neutral typing experience, appealing to those who prefer seamless key presses without tactile feedback. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Brown is a tactile switch that provides a noticeable bump during actuation, which is ideal for typists who appreciate feedback with each keystroke, potentially improving typing accuracy. While the Lucky’s soft characteristics might suit gamers or those who favor rapid, uninterrupted keystrokes, the Dustproof Brown caters to users looking for a more engaging and satisfying tactile sensation as they type. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Lucky Linear

Outemu Dustproof Brown Tactile

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Lucky and the Outemu Dustproof Brown, distinct differences emerge, particularly in the choice of materials for the top housings. The HMX Lucky is constructed with a nylon top housing, which is known for its softer composition. This characteristic lends itself to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as it effectively absorbs sound and contributes to a rounder audio experience. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Brown utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is a sturdier, more rigid plastic that results in a higher-pitched and crisper sound profile, thereby enhancing the overall clarity. For users who prioritize sound quality, the distinct materials significantly influence their typing experience and auditory feedback.

In terms of their bottom housings, both the HMX Lucky and the Outemu Dustproof Brown utilize nylon. This similarity means that regardless of the differences in their top housings, the two switches will share a commonality in the bottom-out sound and feel. The nylon bottom housing absorbs sound, allowing both switches to produce that deeper and rounder sound profile when keys are fully depressed. This can create a uniform sensation for users, as the bottom housing materials substantially influence the interaction with the keyboard during typing sessions, providing a consistent tactile experience.

Overall, while the HMX Lucky and the Outemu Dustproof Brown differ notably in their top housing materials, they share a similar bottom housing material, resulting in contrasting auditory profiles during typing. The nylon top of the Lucky creates a warm sound, counterbalanced against the crisp notes of the Dustproof Brown's polycarbonate top. However, both switches benefit from the nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a cohesive sound foundation, ensuring that the typing experience remains engaging and enjoyable across both models. Users seeking homogenous results in feel but different auditory outcomes will find this interplay particularly interesting as they explore the nuances of each switch type.

Weight

The HMX Lucky linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch exhibit distinct differences in both actuation and bottom out forces, affecting their overall typing and gaming experience. The Lucky switch features a light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it an excellent option for extended typing sessions and comfort during long gaming marathons. In contrast, the Dustproof Brown switch has a higher actuation force of 45 grams and a significantly heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, giving it a more substantial feel that appeals to users who prefer a stronger tactile feedback. Consequently, the Lucky switch is the lighter option, while the Dustproof Brown is the heavier choice. These differences mean that while both switches can serve their respective audiences well, users looking for a softer touch will find the Lucky to be more suitable, whereas those who appreciate a firmer feedback will likely prefer the Outemu Dustproof Brown.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, the differences are notable. The Lucky switch features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Dustproof Brown has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Lucky switch the shorter option, which can provide a more responsive feel, appealing to gamers and users who prefer quicker actuation. On the other hand, the Dustproof Brown's 4 mm travel distance offers a more traditional depth, which some users may find more satisfying for typing, as it delivers a less abrupt keypress experience. Ultimately, if you opt for the HMX Lucky, you'll experience a slightly quicker response, whereas the Outemu Dustproof Brown caters to those who appreciate a more pronounced actuation feedback.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the HMX Lucky linear switch is known for its relatively quiet operation, which contributes to a smoother typing experience without any audible distractions. This makes it an excellent choice for environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum, like an office setting. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch will likely produce a more noticeable sound due to its tactile feedback, which creates a distinct "bump" during key presses. This tactile bump can lead to a more pronounced sound that adds to the overall typing experience but may not be as subtle as the Lucky switch.

In terms of feel, the HMX Lucky linear switch offers a smooth and consistent keypress, allowing for quick and effortless typing without any tactile feedback interference. This creates a neutral experience that can be satisfying for those who prefer a linear feel. On the other hand, the Dustproof Brown tactile switch combines a light tactile bump with a satisfying resistance, delivering a unique sensation during typing. This tactile feedback can enhance typing accuracy and satisfaction for users who enjoy feeling their key presses more distinctly.

Overall, if you're considering mechanical switches for different typing experiences, the HMX Lucky linear switch offers a quiet, smooth, and satisfying experience ideally suited for those who prefer linear keys. In contrast, the Dustproof Brown provides a tactile sensation with a more pronounced sound profile, making it appealing to users who enjoy a more interactive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel, but both switches can cater to different needs within the mechanical keyboard landscape.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the choice between the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you favor a lightweight feel and a neutral, smooth typing experience, the Lucky switch, with its 43-gram bottom out force and softer nylon housing, may be the ideal choice for you, particularly for tasks like coding, gaming, or general typing, where a gentle touch can enhance speed and comfort. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile response that provides clear feedback with each keypress, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch could be your go-to option, especially if you appreciate the satisfying resistance offered by its medium-heavy 65-gram bottom out force. This tactile feedback can lead to a more engaging typing experience, particularly for writing and other tasks where you want to be conscious of your key actuation. Ultimately, consider your typing style, the types of activities you'll engage in, and how much feedback you desire from your switches to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Lucky Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Dustproof Brown Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more