HMX Lucky vs. Gateron Quinn

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Lucky and Gateron Quinn offer two distinct yet appealing options. The HMX Lucky, known for its lightweight and softly glittery nylon housings, provides a neutral and deeply satisfying typing experience akin to a linear switch, making it an excellent choice for those seeking smooth key presses without tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn stands out for its unique blend of snappy tactile feedback and a deep, resonant sound profile, enhanced by its specially designed nylon housings. Users can enjoy a precise, clean bump with each keystroke, coupled with rich auditory feedback that adds character to the typing experience. While the Lucky excels in offering a seamless experience favored by gamers and typists alike, the Quinn appeals to those who appreciate tactile sensations and sound dynamics. 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

Gateron Quinn Tactile

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$6.00

$5.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX Lucky and the Gateron Quinn switches share identical housing materials, featuring both their top and bottom housings made from nylon. This commonality is significant as it implies that users can expect a similar auditory experience when typing on either switch. The nylon material is praised for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, attributed to its relatively softer texture which contributes to sound absorption. Consequently, this leads to a duller, rounder sound when the keys are depressed and released. With both switches utilizing the same type of nylon, users can anticipate a unified performance in terms of acoustics, enhancing the typing experience.

While both switches showcase nylon in their housings, the specific delivery of sound and tactile feel may vary depending on the other components within the switches, such as the springs and stems. Since the nylon material is consistent across both the Lucky and the Quinn, the impact of sound will be notably similar when the switches are engaged. However, when examining how the different elements within each switch interact, users might find varying experiences related to the overall feel of bottoming out or the sensations felt during a key press. The top housing will still largely influence the released sound, while the bottom housing will exert a more significant effect on the sound and sensation experienced at the point of bottoming out.

In conclusion, while the HMX Lucky and Gateron Quinn switches employ identical nylon materials for their housing, subtle differences in other switch components may still create variations in user experience. Nonetheless, the shared use of nylon ensures that both switches will provide comparable acoustic properties, with each delivering a satisfying, rounded sound profile. Users seeking uniform sound quality across different switches will find both the Lucky and Quinn to be excellent choices, as they consistently harness the beneficial characteristics of nylon, fostering a rich typing experience across the board.

Weight

The HMX Lucky linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch differ significantly 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 more suitable for prolonged typing sessions, such as at work or during extended gaming hours. In contrast, the Gateron Quinn switch requires a heavier actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience and feedback. Thus, for those seeking comfort in longer usage, the Lucky would be a better option, while the Quinn caters to individuals desiring a firmer push feel. Overall, the Lucky switch is lighter, while the Quinn is heavier, providing distinct tactile experiences based on personal preference.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, it's clear that the Lucky offers a longer travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Quinn has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This difference may cater to distinct user preferences: gamers, who often favor responsiveness, might gravitate towards the Quinn for its quicker actuation; however, those who appreciate a more substantial key feel may prefer the Lucky for its deeper travel. While 4.0 mm is seen as traditional and 3.0 mm as shallow, the Lucky's longer distance provides a more pronounced tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on whether the user prioritizes speed and responsiveness or a more deliberate key press.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the HMX Lucky linear switch maintains a more neutral auditory profile, providing a subtle and soft sound that tends to keep a low-key presence during typing sessions. This can lead to a typing experience that feels unobtrusive and gentle on the ears, which is often favored in environments where noise levels should be kept to a minimum. In contrast, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch exhibits a much richer and deeper sound that is truly immersive, with a combination of clacky and resonant tones. The Quinn benefits from a bassy and low-pitched character, alongside a crisp and bright snap, making each keystroke feel like a captivating auditory event. This pronounced sound profile caters to those looking for a lively and engaging typing atmosphere.

In terms of feel, the HMX Lucky switch is characterized by a lightweight and smooth experience, likely due to its nylon housings that create a neutral typing sensation. While specific descriptors for the Lucky's feel are not provided, it can generally be assumed that its linear nature offers a direct and uncomplicated tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn stands out with its unique tactile responsiveness, described as snappy and polished. This switch provides a lively and refined typing experience with a pronounced tactile bump that feels clean and responsive, which may result from its deeper tactility and possibly a well-designed spring mechanism. The Quinn also inspires a bouncy and buttery sensation, enhancing liveliness and fluidity during keystrokes.

Overall, both the HMX Lucky and Gateron Quinn switches present distinct experiences that cater to differing preferences. The Lucky offers a soft, more neutral auditory experience with smooth travel, making it a suitable choice for quieter environments, while the Quinn's richer sound profile and snappy tactile feedback create a more vibrant and engaging experience. These differences highlight how sound and tactile feedback can vary greatly between switch types, making personal preference a significant factor in selecting the right switch for your mechanical keyboard. If you prefer a quieter experience, the Lucky will deliver, but if you're seeking a more pronounced auditory and tactile experience, the Quinn is sure to satisfy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, your choice between the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a lightweight and smooth experience, the Lucky, with its 43 grams of bottom-out force, is ideal, offering a neutral, satisfying feel that makes it particularly suitable for those who type quickly or for extended periods. Its soft nylon housing also contributes to a pleasant experience, free from distraction, making it an excellent option for both casual and professional use. On the other hand, if you enjoy tactile feedback and a more substantial keystroke, the Quinn's medium-heavy 67 grams bottom-out force may appeal to you. With its snappy, polished feel and rich, bassy sound profile, the Quinn enhances the typing experience by adding a sense of vibrancy and character to your keystrokes. This makes it especially enjoyable for activities that benefit from tactile and auditory feedback, such as gaming or coding. Therefore, assess what matters most to you—whether it's a smooth, effortless typing experience with the Lucky or a tactile, engaging feel with the Quinn—before making your decision.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Lucky Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Quinn Tactile

$6.00

$5.50 per 10

Learn more