HMX Lucky vs. HMX Twilight
An in-depth look at the HMX Lucky and the HMX Twilight switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch for your typing needs, the HMX Lucky and HMX Twilight linear switches offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The HMX Lucky is celebrated for its soft, glittery nylon housings that provide a lightweight and neutral typing experience, making it an ideal choice for users who prioritize comfort and satisfaction during long typing sessions. In contrast, the HMX Twilight features an extended 3.85mm travel distance, which not only contributes to a slightly quieter sound but also ensures that users still enjoy the signature clacky characteristics synonymous with HMX switches. While both switches provide a linear feel, the Lucky emphasizes lightness and smoothness, whereas the Twilight balances travel distance and auditory feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.85 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Lucky and HMX Twilight both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, which establishes a cohesive acoustic profile and tactile experience across these two switch models. Nylon, as a material, is renowned for its softer properties compared to harder plastics, allowing it to absorb sound more effectively. This characteristic results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, contributing to a more satisfying auditory feedback. The deliberate choice of nylon for both the top and bottom housings ensures that users will have similar auditory experiences with both switches, as the sound quality remains consistent regardless of which model is in use.
In terms of performance, the shared nylon composition of both the Lucky and Twilight switch housings means that the typing experience will be largely comparable. The bottom housing's influence on the bottom-out sound and feel will be similarly affected by the soft traits of nylon in both models. Since the bottom housing generally dictates the tactile response when a key is fully pressed down, the use of nylon contributes to a smooth and cushioned feel, enhancing comfort during extended typing sessions. Therefore, despite any design differences that may exist externally, the inherent qualities of the nylon material ensure that both switches excel in providing a pleasant typing experience.
Finally, the role of each housing is essential in determining how the overall sound and feel of the switches complement each other. While both the Lucky and Twilight switches share the same material properties that create a rich and rounded sound, the top housing plays a critical role in the sound produced upon releasing a key. Since both switches feature nylon in the top housing, users can expect a similar auditory signature when they let go of a key, resulting in continuity in performance across both models. This aligned design not only epitomizes the benefits of using nylon but also fosters a sense of reliability for users transitioning between the HMX Lucky and HMX Twilight switches.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Lucky linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, we see notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Lucky has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it the lighter option of the two. In contrast, the Twilight requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This distinction means that while both switches are considered light, the Lucky switch offers an easier pressing experience, which is ideally suited for long typing sessions or gaming marathons. The Twilight, with its heavier forces, might cater more to users who prefer a more substantial and firm feel while typing. Therefore, while both switches can provide a responsive typing experience, the choice between them ultimately depends on personal preference for actuation weight and feel.
Travel distance
The HMX Lucky linear switch features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the HMX Twilight linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.85 mm. This indicates that the Twilight switch has a marginally deeper feel compared to the Lucky switch, making it the preferable choice for users who enjoy a more pronounced key press, which can evoke a sense of sturdiness during use. On the other hand, the Lucky with its shorter 3.8 mm travel distance may be better suited for gamers or those who prioritize quicker response times, as it allows for faster actuation. In terms of preference, if you favor a more responsive and less abrupt typing experience, the Lucky could be ideal, while if you appreciate a heartier depth in your keystrokes, the Twilight is likely the better option. Overall, while both switches offer close travel distances, the Twilight is the longer option at 3.85 mm compared to the Lucky's 3.8 mm.
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 Twilight has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Twilight for $3.29.
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 linear switch features a softer, more muted auditory profile due to its lightweight design and nylon housing, leading to a typing experience that is ultimately more neutral and less obtrusive. In contrast, the HMX Twilight linear switch boasts an extended 3.85mm travel distance, contributing to a signature clacky characteristic that provides a more pronounced auditory feedback, albeit slightly quieter than other HMX switches. The ultimate sound experience with either switch can be influenced by external factors such as the keyboard design and the choice of keycaps, but generally, the Lucky leans towards subtlety while the Twilight offers more pronounced clacks.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Lucky linear switch provides a deeply satisfying and smooth typing sensation, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a lightweight and responsive switch. On the other hand, the Twilight's extended travel distance also contributes to a unique tactile quality; while it maintains a linear feel, this longer distance can create a sense of deliberate engagement with each keystroke. Both switches cater to users who appreciate a smooth typing experience, but the Twilight may offer a different level of feedback due to its increased travel, which some may find enhances overall engagement during typing.
In conclusion, both the HMX Lucky and HMX Twilight linear switches cater to different yet satisfying typing experiences, and the choice will largely depend on an individual's preferences for sound and feel. The Lucky provides a softer, more neutral sound and a lightweight tactile feedback, making it appealing for those who prefer a refined experience. The Twilight, with its clackier profile and extended travel, allows for a more dynamic typing experience that still remains quieter than many counterparts. Ultimately, either switch will deliver quality performance, but the subtle differences are worth considering based on what type of feedback and sound sensations you value most in your keyboard journey.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the HMX Lucky and HMX Twilight linear switches, your decision should be informed by your personal preferences and specific use cases. If you prefer a lighter touch and a more neutral typing experience that feels deeply satisfying, the HMX Lucky switch is an excellent choice with its bottom-out force of 43 grams and softer nylon housing. This makes it particularly well-suited for long typing sessions where comfort and ease of keystrokes are paramount. On the other hand, if you value a slightly firmer feel and are looking for a switch that offers a more pronounced sound profile while being quieter than typical mechanical switches, the HMX Twilight switch may be your best bet. With its 50 grams of bottom-out force and a longer travel distance of 3.85mm, it provides a unique tactile experience that can enhance both typing and gaming. In summary, if you want a lightweight and satisfying feel, go with the Lucky; if you're seeking a more audible, yet still comfortable option, opt for the Twilight.
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