HMX Lucky vs. Outemu Silver

Overview

When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Lucky and Outemu Silver stand out as two excellent linear options, each catering to different preferences and typing styles. The HMX Lucky switch is celebrated for its softer, glittery nylon housings that create a lightweight and neutral typing experience, making it enjoyable for long typing sessions and gaming alike. On the other hand, while the Outemu Silver may not be as widely recognized for specific features, it still offers a linear experience that appeals to users seeking a smooth keypress without any tactile feedback. Both switches provide a cushioned feel that minimizes finger fatigue, but the Lucky’s aesthetic and comfort may sway those interested in a whimsical touch. 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 Silver Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

The HMX Lucky and Outemu Silver switches employ different materials for their top housing, leading to distinct auditory characteristics. The HMX Lucky features a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This quality arises from nylon's softer plastic composition, which effectively absorbs sound, resulting in a more muted auditory experience. In contrast, the Outemu Silver utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, generates a sharper and crisper sound profile, contributing to a more resonant audio experience. Aesthetically, polycarbonate's translucency also allows for optimal RGB lighting effects, which can be a significant factor for users prioritizing visual aesthetics alongside sound.

When it comes to the bottom housing, both the HMX Lucky and Outemu Silver utilize nylon, which brings consistent properties across the two switches. The nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a deep and full sound profile, similar to that of the HMX Lucky’s nylon top. As the bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel during use, typing on either switch will elicit a similarly duller and rounder auditory experience when bottoming out. This alignment in bottom housing materials means that while users may notice differences based on the top housing, the experience in terms of bottom-out sound will converge for both switches.

In summary, the HMX Lucky and Outemu Silver switches demonstrate a clear contrast in their top housing materials, resulting in differing sound profiles during actuation and release. The HMX Lucky's nylon top provides a softer, muted tone, whereas the Outemu Silver's polycarbonate top delivers a sharper, more resonant sound. However, because both switches share nylon for their bottom housings, the deeper and fuller sound profile associated with nylon remains consistent, ensuring that users will still enjoy a similar bottom-out experience regardless of the switch choice. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference regarding sound and feel, particularly in how the top housing materials affect auditory feedback.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, a clear difference emerges in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Lucky switch features a light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter feel, facilitating longer typing sessions or extended gaming without fatigue. In contrast, the Outemu Silver switch has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a substantial bottom out force of 65 grams, appealing to users who desire a more pronounced tactile feedback and a robust typing experience. Therefore, for users who favor lighter switches, the HMX Lucky is the preferable choice, while those seeking a heavier push feel should opt for the Outemu Silver. Overall, these differences in forces highlight the distinct preferences they cater to within the keyboard user community.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, we find that the Lucky features a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Silver has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Lucky switch offers a more responsive key feel, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker action. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver's travel distance provides a more traditional depth, catering to those who appreciate a more substantial key press. Ultimately, if you prefer responsiveness and a shorter travel distance, the HMX Lucky is the better choice, whereas the Outemu Silver is ideal for those who favor a more pronounced keystroke experience with its longer distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The HMX Lucky linear switch produces a sound profile that is generally quiet, contributing to a more subdued typing experience. This muted acoustics allows it to blend well in various environments without causing much distraction. The Outemu Silver linear switch, on the other hand, is not characterized by any distinctive sound qualities. However, it's important to note that the overall sound can be influenced by various factors like the choice of keyboard plate materials, construction, and keycap types, which can alter the final auditory experience of both switches.

When it comes to feel, the Lucky switch is well-regarded for its soft tactile feedback accompanied by a smooth linear actuation. This provides a comfortable and satisfying typing experience that's ideal for long sessions, making it appealing to both casual and avid typists. The Outemu Silver lacks detailed descriptions regarding its feel, leaving an unknown quality. While it might not offer specific characteristics, linear switches are typically known for their consistent resistance through the key travel, which can deliver a smooth and fluid typing experience.

In conclusion, while the HMX Lucky linear switch shines with its softer, pleasant sound and enjoyable tactile feel, the Outemu Silver linear switch does not have penned-down characteristics in these areas. However, both switches can yield similar results in terms of typing experience since they fall under the linear switch category. Factors such as build, keycap selection, and personal preference will ultimately dictate how each switch performs in real usage. If you're looking for a more defined experience, the Lucky switch is a compelling option, whereas the Silver might require further exploration to uncover its nuanced qualities.

Conclusion

To conclude, selecting between the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you're looking for a lighter touch with a softer feel, the HMX Lucky is an excellent choice. With a lower bottom-out force of 43 grams, it provides a satisfying and effortless typing experience, making it ideal for those who type quickly or engage in prolonged typing sessions without fatigue. The neutral feedback and glittery nylon housings offer a unique tactile sensation that many find enjoyable. On the other hand, if you prefer a firmer keystroke and more resistance, the Outemu Silver might be more suitable for you, thanks to its medium-heavy bottom-out force of 65 grams. This increased resistance can enhance your precision, making it a solid choice for gamers or individuals who want more feedback while typing. Ultimately, your decision will come down to whether you favor a lighter, smoother typing experience with the Lucky or a more substantial feel with the Silver.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Lucky Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Silver Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more