HMX Lucky vs. HMX Sunset Gleam
An in-depth look at the HMX Lucky and the HMX Sunset Gleam switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Lucky and HMX Sunset Gleam offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The HMX Lucky switches are renowned for their lightweight, softer nylon housings that provide a neutral yet deeply satisfying typing experience. They excel in delivering a smooth keystroke, making them an excellent choice for those who prioritize a quiet and fluid typing feel. On the other hand, the HMX Sunset Gleam, often referred to as the Duck Duck switch, introduces a unique combination of materials that results in a subtle top-out and an enticing clack with every keypress. Additionally, these switches benefit from excellent factory lubrication, enhancing their performance and tactile feedback. For users seeking a soft and subtle touch, the Lucky might be the ideal choice, while those who enjoy a more audible and tactile experience may gravitate towards the Sunset Gleam. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Lucky and the HMX Sunset Gleam, the most notable difference lies in the composition of their top housings. The Lucky features a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. As a relatively softer plastic, nylon absorbs sound effectively, leading to a duller and rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound due to its stiffness. For users who prioritize RGB lighting, the translucency of the polycarbonate adds an aesthetic advantage, enhancing the visual experience when illuminated. Thus, while the Lucky’s nylon top may provide a warmer sound, the Sunset Gleam’s polycarbonate offers clarity and vibrant lighting options.
Interestingly, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, creating a unique dynamic in their overall sound profiles. In both the HMX Lucky and the Sunset Gleam, the nylon bottom housing contributes to the deeper and fuller sound characteristics that users associate with this material. Since the bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, this shared material ensures a consistent auditory experience in that regard. Consequently, when typing on either switch, users will experience a similar depth in sound at the moment of key activation, despite the differences in the top housing materials. This cohesive use of nylon in the bottom housing illustrates how these structures can still lead to comparable results in the tactile experience.
Ultimately, the contrasting top housing materials of the HMX Lucky and HMX Sunset Gleam yield distinct sound profiles, while the shared nylon bottom housing interlinks their auditory performance. The deeper timbre of the Lucky, facilitated by its nylon top, becomes a stark contrast to the crispness offered by the Sunset Gleam’s polycarbonate top. Both bottom housings ensure a consistent and satisfying typing experience by leveraging the same material. Therefore, the resulting auditory and tactile experiences of these two switches are shaped by their respective housing choices, illustrating the significant role that materials play in the overall functionality and enjoyment of mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Lucky linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, we observe differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Lucky switch features an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it the lighter option overall. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This distinction means that users who prefer a softer touch and less resistance may lean toward the Lucky switch, ideal for prolonged typing sessions. Conversely, those who favor a firmer push and a more substantial tactile experience during both casual use and gaming might find the Sunset Gleam more appealing. Thus, while both switches are classified as light, the Lucky offers a lighter feel, whereas the Sunset Gleam adds a bit more resistance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lucky linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, the differences are notable. The HMX Lucky boasts a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the HMX Sunset Gleam features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Sunset Gleam the more responsive option, as shorter travel distances are often preferred by gamers for their quicker actuation and faster response times. Conversely, the HMX Lucky, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial keypress feel, providing a deeper and more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, if you prioritize responsiveness and speed, the Sunset Gleam is the better choice; however, if you favor a more pronounced key travel, the Lucky would be more suitable.
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 HMX Sunset Gleam has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sunset Gleam for $2.99.
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
In terms of sound, the HMX Lucky switch is characterized by a subtlety that enhances the overall typing experience without being overly pronounced. Its softer construction lends a more muted tone, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a quieter environment. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam switch, also known as the Duck Duck switch, offers a more distinct auditory feedback with a satisfying clack at the top-out. This switch strikes a balance between being audible yet not overly disruptive, appealing to typists who appreciate a more pronounced sound profile while typing.
When discussing the feel of these switches, the HMX Lucky is known for its lightweight action, providing a smooth and effortless keystroke that many users find deeply satisfying. Its glittery nylon housing contributes to a neutral and forgiving experience, making it suitable for prolonged typing sessions. Conversely, the Sunset Gleam switch offers a unique tactile sensation with an excellent factory lube application that enhances the fluidity of each keystroke. This combination results in a comfortable, responsive feel ideal for both gaming and typing, making it a versatile choice for different users.
In conclusion, both the HMX Lucky and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Lucky prioritizes a softer sound profile and an exceptionally lightweight feel, the Sunset Gleam combines a more noticeable auditory feedback with a smooth action enhanced by factory lube. Ultimately, your choice may come down to whether you prefer a quieter, gentler typing experience or a more pronounced sound and slightly more tactile feedback. Regardless of which switch you choose, both provide a satisfying experience that is likely to meet a range of user needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Lucky and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switches, it's essential to consider your personal preferences for typing feel and sound characteristics. If you prefer a lighter touch and a typing experience that feels both neutral and comfortable with a satisfying, almost glittery sensation, the HMX Lucky would be an excellent choice for you. Its 43-gram actuation weight allows for quick typing with minimal finger fatigue, making it ideal for long sessions of writing or gaming where speed is critical. On the other hand, if you enjoy a slightly firmer key feel and appreciate a blend of materials that produce a subtle top-out along with a satisfying, distinct clack, the HMX Sunset Gleam may cater better to your needs. With its 48-gram bottom-out force and high-quality factory lube, this switch provides not just tactile feedback but also a more pronounced sound profile, perfect for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. Ultimately, your choice should reflect what you value most in a switch—light and smooth with the Lucky, versus a more textured experience with the Sunset Gleam.
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