HMX Lucky vs. Outemu Dustproof Green
An in-depth look at the HMX Lucky and the Outemu Dustproof Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, preferences often hinge on the tactile feedback and overall typing experience desired by the user. The HMX Lucky linear switch stands out with its softer, glittery nylon housings, offering a lightweight and neutral typing experience that many find deeply satisfying. This makes the Lucky an attractive option for those who enjoy a smooth keystroke with minimal resistance, ideal for fast typists and gamers who prioritize speed and precision. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Green switch brings a clicky, audible feedback that appeals to typists who thrive on the tactile response of each keystroke, making it a great choice for those who appreciate a classic typewriter feel and a satisfying "click" sound with every press. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
65g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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 the Outemu Dustproof Green switches, a distinct contrast arises in their respective top housings. The Lucky utilizes nylon for its top housing, which is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound. This is attributed to nylon's softer composition, which dampens sound waves and results in a rounder sound profile. Conversely, the Dustproof Green employs polycarbonate for its top housing, leading to a sharper and crisper sound profile. This rigidity of polycarbonate allows for a more pronounced resonance, ideal for users seeking clarity in their keypress sounds, particularly when RGB lighting is integrated due to its translucent nature. Therefore, while both switches excel in providing auditory feedback, they do so through distinctly different acoustic properties.
On the other hand, both the Lucky and the Dustproof Green feature nylon for their bottom housings, demonstrating a point of similarity amid their differences. The use of nylon in the bottom housing contributes to a deeper sound profile, similar to the effect observed in the Lucky's top housing. This common material results in a characteristic dullness and roundness when bottoming out, which is critical for the tactile experience of the switch. As such, both switches can deliver comparable tactile feedback and overall deeper sound due to the nylon contrast in their bottom constructions, even as their top housings diverge in sound quality.
In terms of performance, the integrated effects of the top and bottom housings lead to a unique auditory experience for each switch. Users of the Lucky may appreciate the combination of nylon in both the top and bottom housings for a consistently deep and rounded sound, creating a cohesive auditory landscape. In contrast, the Dustproof Green may appeal to those who prefer a pronouncedly sharper auditory signature at the top while still enjoying the fuller sound from the nylon bottom housing. Ultimately, while there are differences in the top housing that result in varying sound profiles, the shared nylon material in the bottom housing allows for a baseline of depth and richness across both switches, ensuring that users can still savor a satisfying keystroke experience regardless of choice.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, there is a clear distinction in their characteristics. The HMX Lucky switch features a light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it suitable for users who favor a softer touch for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Green switch has a significantly heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, appealing to those who appreciate a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Consequently, the Lucky switch is the lighter option, ideal for those who prioritize comfort during long use, while the Dustproof Green switch is the heavier choice for users seeking a firmer push feel. This difference in weight will ultimately affect user preference based on individual typing styles and comfort needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, there is a clear distinction between the two. The HMX Lucky features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Green has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This indicates that the Lucky switch offers a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers or users who prefer quick, responsive actions when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Dustproof Green's longer travel distance may be more satisfactory for those who appreciate a more pronounced key depth and tactile feedback during use. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences regarding key feel and responsiveness.
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 Dustproof Green 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 tends to produce a quieter and more subdued typing experience. This is largely due to its linear design, which eliminates any tactile bump or click that produces distinct auditory feedback. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch delivers a more pronounced and satisfying "click" sound with each keystroke, appealing to users who enjoy a tactile auditory response while typing. While both switches can vary in sound based on the specific keyboard and keycaps used, the fundamental difference between a linear and clicky switch makes the Dustproof Green a noisier option compared to the Lucky.
In terms of feel, the HMX Lucky switch offers a smooth and frictionless typing experience, characteristic of linear switches. This results in a typing sensation that many users describe as lightweight and effortless, allowing for fast and fluid keystrokes. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Green switch features a tactile bump that provides clear feedback when the key is actuated, which can enhance the typing experience for those who prefer a more involved and deliberate feel. The tactile nature of the Green switch makes it an excellent choice for typists who depend on physical feedback to gauge their typing precision.
In conclusion, both the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch provide distinct typing experiences. The Lucky is ideal for those who prioritize a quieter, smoother feel, while the Dustproof Green caters to users who enjoy tactile feedback paired with audible response. Each serves a different purpose depending on personal typing style preferences, so selecting between them hinges on whether you're inclined towards a subdued and fluid typing experience or a more engaging, clicky sensation.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a light and smooth keystroke, the Lucky switch, with its 43-gram bottom-out force and satisfying typing experience, is an excellent option. Its glittery nylon housing adds an appealing aesthetic, and you’ll find it suitable for long typing sessions, gaming, or any activity that benefits from quick, responsive actuation without the distraction of sound. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile and pronounced feedback while typing, the Outemu Dustproof Green, with an 80-gram bottom-out force, provides a much heavier feel that can help keep your fingers grounded on the keys. This switch is ideal if you enjoy the auditory and tactile confirmation of each keystroke and don’t mind a bit of extra resistance. In short, for a lightweight and smooth experience, go for the HMX Lucky; however, if you want a heavier actuation and the satisfying click of a classic mechanical switch, the Outemu Dustproof Green is the way to go.
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