HMX Lucky vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the HMX Lucky and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Lucky and the Outemu Tom present two distinct choices for keyboard enthusiasts. The Lucky, a linear switch, is celebrated for its smooth and uninterrupted keystrokes, crafted with soft, glittery nylon housings that create a neutral and deeply satisfying typing experience. Its lightweight design makes it an excellent option for those who prefer a fluid motion without tactile feedback. In contrast, the Outemu Tom is categorized as a tactile switch, offering users a noticeable bump on actuation that enhances typing accuracy and provides physical feedback. This feature appeals to those who enjoy a more engaging connection with their keys, making each press feel rewarding. While the Lucky is perfect for users seeking speed and fluidity in their typing, the Tom caters to those who value precision and a tangible response. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 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 HMX Lucky and the Outemu Tom switches, one of the most significant differences lies in their top housing materials. The HMX Lucky employs a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition. This softness allows the nylon to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a more muted, rounder acoustic experience. In contrast, the Outemu Tom features a polycarbonate top housing, which offers a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced, making it ideal for users seeking a crisper typing experience. This key distinction in top housing material leads to different auditory outcomes for users, with the Lucky providing a warmer sound and the Tom leaning towards a brighter, more articulated auditory signature.
In terms of bottom housings, the comparison reveals a convergence between the two switches, as both the HMX Lucky and the Outemu Tom utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This similarity brings forth the characteristic deep and fuller sound profile associated with nylon, emphasizing the softer acoustic qualities that are crucial in shaping the bottom-out response when typing. Since both switches share this bottom housing material, users can expect a consistent feel and sound upon bottoming out, regardless of the different top housing materials. Consequently, both switches will provide a satisfying tactile experience at the base of the keystroke, further uniting their performance, despite the contrasting experiences offered at the top.
Ultimately, the differing characteristics of the top housing materials will influence the overall typing experience of the HMX Lucky and the Outemu Tom. While the nylon bottom housings ensure a harmonious bottom-out feel and sound across both switches, the unique sound profiles shaped by their respective top housings could lead to varied preferences among users. Those who favor a deeper sound will likely lean towards the Lucky, while those who enjoy a brighter, clearer auditory feedback may prefer the Tom. As such, even though both switches share commonalities in their bottom housing, the divergence in the top housing materials ultimately defines their distinct sound and tactile profiles, catering to a wide range of preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, significant differences in actuation force can be observed. The Lucky switch features a relatively light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it an excellent option for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Outemu Tom switch has a much heavier actuation force of 55 grams, indicating a stronger push required to register a keystroke, which may appeal to those who favor a more substantial typing experience. Notably, the bottom out force for the Tom switch is not specified, which leaves uncertainty about how it compares in terms of reaching the keystroke's maximum depth. Overall, while the Lucky's lighter weight may enhance comfort for prolonged use, the Tom's heavier actuation force caters to users seeking a more tactile feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, a noticeable difference emerges, with the Lucky measuring 3.8 mm and the Tom measuring 3.3 mm. The Lucky switch offers a longer travel distance, appealing to users who prefer a more pronounced depth and tactile feedback when typing or gaming. In contrast, the shorter 3.3 mm travel distance of the Tom switch caters to those seeking quicker actuation for faster response times, making it preferable for gamers looking for efficiency. Ultimately, the choice between these switches hinges on personal preference: if you prioritize a hearty depth and feel, the HMX Lucky would be the suitable option, while those who prefer a more responsive touch may gravitate toward the Outemu Tom.
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 Tom 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
The HMX Lucky linear switch produces a soft, muted sound, providing a pleasant typing experience that is discreet and non-intrusive. This quieter characteristic makes it a great choice for environments where noise could be a concern. In contrast, the Outemu Tom tactile switch does not have a specific sound profile mentioned; however, tactile switches typically offer a pronounced "thock" when bottoming out, which could enhance the typing experience for those who enjoy auditory feedback during use. It's important to consider that the sound of both switches can also be influenced by the keyboard design and the keycap materials you choose.
When it comes to feel, the Lucky switch is known for its lightweight and neutral typing experience, which many users find deeply satisfying. This means that the switch offers a smooth keystroke without any bumps or resistance, promoting a seamless typing flow. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom tactile switch has its details unspecified, but tactile switches generally provide a tangible bump that signals the actuation point, making them favorable for typists who appreciate feedback during their key presses. This contrast means that users looking for a smooth experience may prefer the Lucky, while those who enjoy feeling the actuation point might lean towards tactile options like the Tom.
In summary, while the HMX Lucky and Outemu Tom have their unique qualities, the Lucky switch excels in providing a soft sound and a smooth, lightweight feel that many find satisfying. Without specific insights into the sound and feel of the Tom, it is less clear how it compares; however, the tactile nature of such switches usually appeals to users looking for feedback in their keystrokes. Ultimately, your choice might hinge on whether you prioritize a linear, pleasingly quiet experience or the distinct feedback offered by tactile switches.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, consider your personal preferences in typing feel and sound. If you prefer a softer typing experience with a lighter bottom-out force of 43 grams, the Lucky switch would be a great choice, especially if you enjoy a more neutral and satisfying feel without a tactile bump. This switch also provides a quieter operation, making it ideal for a more serene working environment or if you tend to type for extended periods. On the other hand, if you favor a tactile experience that offers feedback with each keypress, the Outemu Tom switch would be more suitable, even though specific details about its sound and feel are less defined. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a smooth linear motion or if you lean towards a tactile sensation during typing. Choose what aligns best with your typing style and comfort, as this will enhance your overall keyboard experience.
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