HMX Lucky vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver

Overview

When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Lucky and Gateron Smoothie Silver are two linear options that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The HMX Lucky is renowned for its softer, glittery nylon housings that provide a neutral and deeply satisfying typing experience, making it a great choice for users who appreciate a balance between comfort and feedback. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie Silver boasts an all-POM construction designed for a lightning-fast actuation with a notably short travel distance, appealing to gamers and typists who prioritize speed and responsiveness. While the Lucky is ideal for those seeking a smooth and fulfilling experience, the Smoothie Silver stands out for its feather-light touch and thocky sound profile. 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 Smoothie Silver Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.00

$2.60 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX Lucky and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches feature different housing materials, which contribute distinctly to their sound profiles and tactile experiences. The HMX Lucky employs nylon for both its top and bottom housings, a classic choice that provides a deeper, fuller sound due to the material's softer characteristics. Nylon's ability to absorb sound results in a duller and rounder auditory experience, making it ideal for those seeking a more subdued typing environment. The uniformity of using nylon in both the top and bottom housings means that the user will experience a consistent sound and feel throughout the keystroke, enhancing the overall typing experience.

In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie Silver employs POM in both its top and bottom housings. POM, while still contributing to a deeper sound profile, is known for its unique auditory quality that strikes a balance between being pleasing and muted. Although POM is a harder plastic than nylon, it offers its own distinct sound signature that separates it from the Lucky switches. Since both the top and bottom housings of the Smoothie Silver are made of POM, this creates a cohesive sound profile as well, albeit with different acoustic properties compared to the nylon construction of the HMX Lucky.

Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches can yield similar results in terms of output sound and feel by leveraging their respective material characteristics. The nylon housing of the Lucky excels in producing a more muted and rounded sound, while the POM housing of the Smoothie Silver offers a unique interpretation of a deeper sound. Users interested in a more pronounced and softer sound might prefer the Lucky, while those looking for a unique auditory experience may gravitate towards the Smoothie Silver. Ultimately, the choice comes down to personal preference, as both switches can deliver an enjoyable typing experience tailored to the user's needs based on the distinct qualities offered by their housing materials.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Lucky linear switch to the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation force. The Lucky switch features a light actuation force of 37 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes, which is especially beneficial for prolonged typing sessions. In contrast, the Smoothie Silver has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams, providing a more substantial push feel that some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. The Lucky's bottom out force is 43 grams, indicating that it requires a little more effort to press all the way down, whereas the bottom out force for the Smoothie Silver is unknown. Therefore, users seeking lighter action will find the HMX Lucky advantageous, while those favoring a heavier feel might lean towards the Gateron Smoothie Silver. Overall, the differences in actuation force clearly position the Lucky as the lighter option and the Smoothie Silver as the heavier alternative.

Travel distance

The HMX Lucky linear switch features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Lucky switch the longer option, providing a more substantial key feel with its greater travel distance. In contrast, the Smoothie Silver, being shorter, is more conducive to quick responses, which can be advantageous for gaming. Gamers often prefer the reduced distance for faster actuation, while those who favor a more pronounced typing experience may lean towards the Lucky switch. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference, with the Smoothie Silver catering more to those seeking speed and the Lucky appealing to users who enjoy a deeper keystroke.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Lucky linear switch is noted for its unique acoustic profile, typically producing a softer and more subdued sound due to its nylon housing. This characteristic gives it a pleasing and less intrusive auditory quality while typing, making it suitable for quieter environments. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch offers a distinct "thocky" sound, which is more pronounced and resonates with each keystroke. This sound is complemented by its smooth actuation, resulting in a satisfying auditory experience that some typists may find more engaging, especially in a lively setting. However, it’s important to remember that the sound can vary significantly based on the keyboard assembly and the keycap materials used.

Regarding the feel of these switches, the HMX Lucky offers a neutral and satisfying typing experience, enhanced by its lightweight design, allowing for a comfortable and fatigue-free typing session. This makes the Lucky switch appealing for those who prefer a balanced experience without any significant tactile feedback or resistance. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver is engineered for lightning-fast actuation and an ultra-smooth keystroke, providing a feather-light touch that can be exhilarating for competitive gamers or fast typists. While both switches provide a linear action, the Lucky may feel more forgiving over long typing sessions, while the Smoothie Silver excels in rapid response scenarios.

Both the HMX Lucky and Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switches offer appealing qualities for different preferences and use cases. While they differ in sound characteristics, with the Lucky being softer and the Smoothie Silver providing a more pronounced thock, both ensure a smooth keystroke experience. The Lucky's neutral feel is perfect for general typing, whereas the Smoothie Silver caters to those seeking rapid actuation and responsiveness. Ultimately, choosing between them depends on whether you prioritize a quiet and satisfying typing experience or a snappy and dynamic feel in your mechanical keyboard setup.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch will ultimately depend on your personal preferences and typing style. If you’re looking for a switch that offers a light touch and a neutral yet satisfying typing experience, the Lucky is an excellent choice. Its softer nylon housings provide a comfortable feel, making it great for extended typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that enables lightning-fast actuation, the Smoothie Silver is ideal for gaming or rapid typing. Its all-POM construction delivers unparalleled smoothness and a distinctive thocky sound that many users find appealing. In essence, if you prioritize a balanced typing experience with a bit of tactile feedback, go for the Lucky, but if you value speed and smoothness in your keystrokes, the Smoothie Silver will likely serve you better.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Lucky Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Smoothie Silver Linear

$3.00

$2.60 per 10

Learn more