HMX Lucky vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the HMX Lucky and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Lucky and Gateron Smoothie stand out as enticing options for anyone seeking a satisfying linear typing experience. The HMX Lucky is celebrated for its softer, glittery nylon housings that lend a lightweight and neutral feel, offering a deeply satisfying typing experience that many users appreciate. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie boasts an all-POM construction that combines affordability with exceptional quality, delivering a thocky sound signature alongside its remarkable smoothness and lightweight touch. While the Lucky is perfect for those who enjoy a gentle, cushiony keystroke, the Smoothie attracts users with its distinctive thocky acoustics and silky response. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Lucky and Gateron Smoothie offer distinct sound profiles due to their differing compositions. The Lucky utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, which is known for its relatively softer nature. This characteristic allows nylon to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, leading to a deeper and rounder auditory experience. The unified material choice contributes to a fuller sound profile when typing, making for a cohesive aural experience as both the top and bottom housing work in tandem to deliver a muted, yet rich, sound when the keys are engaged and released.
In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie employs POM for its top and bottom housings. POM, or polyoxymethylene, is renowned for providing a unique sound quality that, while similar in its deeper acuity, presents a slightly more defined timbre. Although still muted, the POM houses produce an appealing auditory experience that differentiates itself from the nylon switches. The varied material selection enables the Smoothie's sound to be perceived as both pleasing and distinctive, giving it a different character compared to the more traditional nylon switches used in the Lucky.
Despite the differences in nylon and POM, both switch types share a common goal of delivering a satisfying typing experience. As both materials are relatively soft compared to harder plastics typically found in some other switch types, they inherently afford a more plush and muted auditory feedback. When pressed, both switch designs utilize the unique properties of their respective housings to create a distinctive bottom-out sound and tactile feel. The integration of softer materials leads to a similar outcome in terms of sound dampening, resulting in switches that appeal to enthusiasts seeking a pleasant auditory sensation regardless of the underlying material differences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, some distinct differences emerge. The Lucky switch features a relatively light actuation force of 37 grams, resulting in less effort required for keystrokes, making it an ideal choice for prolonged typing sessions or gaming, where comfort is key. In contrast, the Smoothie switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 40 grams, indicating that it requires a bit more pressure to register a keystroke. However, it is important to note that the bottom out force for the Smoothie is unknown, whereas the Lucky's bottom out force is 43 grams, indicating that it has a more defined resistance at the end of the keypress. Ultimately, those who prefer lighter switches for extended use may lean towards the Lucky, while those who enjoy a slightly heavier feel may favor the Gateron Smoothie, depending on its bottom out characteristics.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, there is a notable difference. The HMX Lucky boasts a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie offers a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This positions the Lucky as the switch with the longer travel distance, catering to users who prefer a more pronounced keypress feel. In contrast, the Smoothie, with its shorter travel distance, may appeal more to gamers or those seeking faster response times, as it allows for quicker actuation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference: for a more tactile experience, the Lucky is preferable, while the Smoothie may be favored for its 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 Gateron Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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 is known for its neutral auditory profile; however, specific details regarding its actual sound signature are not provided. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch boasts a distinctly thocky quality, delivering a deep, rich sound reminiscent of a soft "thud" or gentle "knock" as it is pressed and released. The Smoothie’s low-pitched tonal characteristics contribute to a bass-heavy and mellow auditory experience, while its subdued nature ensures that the sound is dampened and less jarring compared to more traditional switches, making it an appealing choice for users seeking a quieter but still pronounced keystroke sound.
As for the feel, the Lucky switch is celebrated for its lightweight, neutral typing experience, which many find deeply satisfying; however, it lacks any further details that would illustrate its tactile nuances. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie switch excels in offering a luxuriously smooth typing experience characterized by descriptors such as buttery, creamy, and silky. This smoothness likely stems from its material composition and potentially from factory lubrication, resulting in a seamless keystroke action that allows fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys. The combination of these qualities ensures a fluid and enjoyable typing experience, contrasting with the Lucky's undefined tactile sensations.
In summary, while both the HMX Lucky and Gateron Smoothie linear switches are well-regarded for their unique qualities, the Smoothie offers a more defined sound profile and a remarkably smooth feel, making it a strong contender for those prioritizing these characteristics. The Lucky switch maintains a satisfying typing experience, but with less clarity in sound and feel compared to its Gateron counterpart. Ultimately, if you're looking for a thocky auditory experience and an exceptionally smooth keystroke, you might prefer the Gateron Smoothie, but if you desire simplicity and satisfaction without defined traits, the Lucky may just fit the bill.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, consider your personal preferences for tactile feedback and sound profile. If you lean towards a lightweight typing experience that feels neutral and satisfying, the Lucky switch with its 43-gram bottom-out force might be your optimal choice. It's particularly suited for those who appreciate a softer housing style, providing a delightful feel without overwhelming sound, making it great for both typing and gaming sessions where minimal distraction is desired. On the other hand, if you prioritize a deeper, richer auditory experience, look no further than the Gateron Smoothie. This switch boasts a thocky sound signature combined with an impressively smooth keystroke, making each press feel effortless. If you prefer a more tactile feedback and a creamy, buttery typing experience, the Smoothie might be ideal, particularly for prolonged typing scenarios where comfort is key. Ultimately, your choice may hinge on whether you value a lighter touch with a neutral sound (HMX Lucky) or a satisfying thocky sound combined with an incredibly smooth typing experience (Gateron Smoothie). Choose based on what resonates best with your typing style and sound preference for a truly enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience.
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