HMX Lucky vs. HMX SU

Overview

When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Lucky and HMX SU offer distinct yet appealing options for enthusiasts seeking a linear switch experience. The HMX Lucky switch is celebrated for its softer, glittery nylon housings, which provide a lightweight feel and a neutral, thoroughly satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX SU switch boasts a robust PA12 housing and a T5 stem, delivering a subtly deep sound profile that enhances the tactile sensation while maintaining a smooth, linear action. While both switches offer unique benefits in terms of feel and sound, the decision may ultimately depend on your personal preferences for typing sensation and auditory feedback. 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

HMX SU Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

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Housing materials

Both the HMX Lucky and the HMX SU feature nylon as their primary housing material, with both switches employing nylon for their top and bottom housings. This shared choice of material ensures that users will experience a consistently deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on either switch. The inherent properties of nylon—a relatively softer plastic—allow for sound absorption, creating a duller and rounder acoustic quality. This commonity leads to an expectation of similar acoustic performance between the two models, making both the Lucky and SU excellent options for those who favor a muted sound profile conducive to a quieter typist environment.

While both the HMX Lucky and the HMX SU utilize nylon across both housing components, which promotes uniformity in their sound quality, subtle differences may arise in the perceived typing experience based on switch characteristics not associated with material alone. The bottom housing notably contributes more to the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a more significant influence on the sound released when the key is released. As a result, even though the material is identical, users might notice nuances in their typing experience, depending on the specific design or engineering of the switches themselves in terms of the housing configuration.

Ultimately, because the HMX Lucky and the HMX SU both utilize nylon for their entire construction, they are poised to deliver similar results in terms of acoustics and tactile feedback. As users press down on either switch, the nylon's natural properties will help absorb sound, yielding a softer typing experience characterized by a muted thud. However, those looking for specific performance nuances may want to consider differences in actuation, tactile feedback, or other discrete engineering factors beyond material composition. Therefore, both switches represent reliable options for those seeking particular sound profiles while maintaining the comfort and durability associated with nylon switch housings.

Weight

The HMX Lucky linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch each present a unique typing experience with their respective actuation and bottom out forces. The Lucky switch has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it the lighter option among the two. In contrast, the SU switch has a higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, categorizing it as a heavier switch. This difference means that while the Lucky switch may favor users looking for a lighter feel to facilitate long typing sessions or gaming marathons, the SU switch offers a more substantial push experience for those who prefer stronger feedback when typing. Both switches maintain a light categorization overall, but the SU provides a firmer resistance, catering to different user preferences in terms of actuation and tactile feedback.

Travel distance

The HMX Lucky linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the HMX SU linear switch measures slightly less at 3.6 mm. This means that the Lucky offers a longer travel distance compared to the SU, providing a more pronounced depth when pressed. For those who enjoy a more substantial keypress, the Lucky would likely be the preferred choice, as its extra 0.2 mm can enhance the tactile experience. Conversely, the SU's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times and a more immediate feedback with less travel; however, some users might find the abruptness of shorter distances less satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two hinges on personal preference regarding depth and responsiveness in keystrokes.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Lucky linear switch is characterized by a more subdued acoustic profile, allowing for a quiet typing experience that is well-suited for both office environments and shared spaces. In contrast, the HMX SU linear switch has a subtle but relatively deeper sound that can offer a more satisfying auditory feedback when pressed. This deeper sound gives the SU a slightly more pronounced auditory signature, which can enhance the overall typing experience for users who appreciate a richer sound. However, it’s worth noting that the sound of a switch can vary significantly depending on factors such as the keyboard frame and keycap material used, so users may find unique audio characteristics regardless of the switch type selected.

When it comes to feel, the HMX Lucky linear switch provides a lightweight and neutral typing experience, making it approachable for beginners and comfortable for long typing sessions. Its softer nylon housing contributes to a smoother keystroke, promoting an effortless typing sensation. On the other hand, the HMX SU linear switch, with its full PA12 housing and T5 stem, offers a distinct tactile stability that many typists find rewarding. While both switches prioritize smoothness, the SU's design may enhance the overall stability of each keypress, giving users a slightly different sensation as they type.

Overall, both the HMX Lucky and HMX SU linear switches have their unique strengths. While the Lucky excels in providing a soft and neutral feel with a quieter sound profile, the SU offers a deeper auditory experience and a more stable typing sensation. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preferences regarding sound and feel, but users can expect a satisfying typing experience from both models, given their design intentions. If you appreciate the lighter, quieter feel and sound of the Lucky, or the deeper auditory feedback and stability of the SU, either switch could potentially meet your typing needs.

Conclusion

To wrap up, when choosing between the HMX Lucky linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, your decision should largely depend on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a lighter touch and a neutral, deeply satisfying experience, the Lucky switch at a bottom-out force of 43 grams could be the ideal choice for you. Its softer, glittery nylon housings provide a unique tactile feel that many users find appealing, especially if you prioritize a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, if you appreciate a slightly firmer feel with a touch of depth, the HMX SU linear switch, which has a bottom-out force of 50 grams, may resonate more with you. The full PA12 housing and T5 stem of the SU deliver a subtly deep sound profile and a more robust typing feedback. Ultimately, consider what you find more comfortable: the lighter, more neutral Lucky or the slightly heavier, deeper-feeling SU, and choose the one that best enhances your typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Lucky Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

HMX SU Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more