HMX Lucky vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the HMX Lucky and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can profoundly impact your typing experience, and two intriguing options are the HMX Lucky and Gateron Type A, both of which are linear switches. The HMX Lucky is renowned for its softer and glittery nylon housings, providing a wonderfully neutral and deeply satisfying typing feel that many typists adore. This switch tends to be lightweight, making it an appealing choice for those who prefer a more effortless keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron Type A, birthed from Sillyworks' innovative "Project Rehash" / SLAY series, introduces an exciting twist on traditional switch design. With medium weight and a sound signature that leans towards the deep end of the spectrum, the Type A is an excellent compromise for individuals seeking both tactile feedback and auditory satisfaction. While the Lucky shines with its lightweight and satisfying typing experience, the Gateron Type A offers a richly sound-defined feedback that appeals to those who enjoy a bit more depth in their keystrokes. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
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 housing materials of both the HMX Lucky and the Gateron Type A switches exhibit a fundamental similarity in that both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This dual nylon construction contributes to a consistent sound profile, characterized by a deeper and fuller auditory experience. The soft texture of nylon helps absorb vibrations during typing, effectively dampening sound and creating a round, mellow tone. Given this shared material, users can expect a comparable acoustic performance when typing on either switch, providing a satisfying auditory feedback that enhances the overall typing experience.
Despite their similarities in materials, understanding the specifics of how these housings interact during use is essential. The Gateron Type A, with its nylon construction, will mirror the qualities of the Lucky switch in terms of tactile feedback and bottoming out sound. When a key is pressed, the bottom housing absorbs impacts, creating a softer landing, while the top housing influences the sound as the key is released. Both switches will exhibit a similar tactile response due to the nylon's inherent properties, ensuring users experience a cohesive feel when switching between the two.
However, if there were to be a variation in the housing materials—let's say one used a different kind of plastic for the bottom housing—the resulting typing experience would differ slightly. A harder material might lead to a sharper, more pronounced sound upon bottoming out, whereas a softer material would retain a more muted sound. In cases where both top and bottom housings are made of nylon, as is the case for both the HMX Lucky and the Gateron Type A, the results will align closely, allowing users to enjoy a similar sound and feel, which is a significant advantage for those seeking a uniform typing experience across different switch models.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The HMX Lucky features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a softer feel, which can be beneficial for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Gateron Type A has a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. This heavier force offers a more substantial typing experience, catering to users who enjoy a firmer feedback while typing. While the Lucky switch is ideal for users looking for reduced fatigue, the Type A may appeal to those who appreciate a stronger tactile sensation. Overall, the Lucky switch is the lighter option, while the Type A presents a heavier choice.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, it's clear that the Lucky, with a travel distance of 3.8 mm, is shorter than the Type A, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. This difference of 0.2 mm can significantly influence the feel of the switch, especially for users who prioritize response times, as the shorter distance can facilitate quicker key presses. Gamers may lean towards the HMX Lucky for its more rapid activation, while users who appreciate a more pronounced keystroke may prefer the Gateron Type A for its deeper travel. Therefore, depending on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness, one's choice between these switches will vary.
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 Type A comes in at $4.70 per 10 switches.
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 offers a typing experience that is neutral and deeply satisfying, though specific acoustic qualities are not detailed. The Gateron Type A linear switch presents a sound signature that is notably deeper, making it suitable for a variety of environments. While the Lucky's sound characteristics lean toward satisfaction, the Type A provides a more subdued sound profile—producing a dampened tone when pressed—allowing it to remain unobtrusive in both quiet and bustling settings. Both switches can deliver satisfying auditory feedback depending on the configuration of the keyboard and the choice of keycaps, so you may find that the sound can vary based on these factors.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Lucky switch is known for its lightweight yet satisfying experience thanks to its softer nylon housings. This design contributes to a neutral yet enjoyable tactile sensation during typing. The Gateron Type A, on the other hand, aims for a medium-weight feel which may appeal to users who desire a balance between the lightness of a typical linear switch and the support of something with a bit more resistance. Although specific descriptions of the feel for the Lucky switch weren't provided, you can expect both switches to deliver fluid motion while typing, with the Lucky leaning slightly towards a softer touch compared to the medium feel of the Type A.
In conclusion, both the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch cater to enthusiasts looking for a satisfying typing experience, albeit in different manners. The Lucky offers a softer, neutral experience while the Type A provides a deeper sound and a medium-weight feel, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a balanced switch. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will hinge on personal preference, particularly in relation to sound and tactile feedback, as both switches can provide a rewarding typing experience depending on your setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch ultimately depends on your individual preferences and typing style. If you're looking for an incredibly lightweight switch with a softer feel, the Lucky might be your best option. With its 43-gram bottom-out force and a typing experience that’s neutral yet deeply satisfying, it's ideal for prolonged typing sessions or if you favor a quick actuation without much resistance. Additionally, the glittery nylon housing offers a unique aesthetic appeal that some users might enjoy. On the other hand, if you prefer a more balanced, medium-light switch with a slightly deeper sound, the Gateron Type A could be the better choice. With a 55-gram bottom-out force, it provides a sturdier feel that can enhance tactile satisfaction while still remaining accessible for extended use. Its neutral and subdued sound profile makes it versatile for both home and office environments, accommodating a range of users from beginners to seasoned typists. Ultimately, your decision should focus on whether you prioritize a lighter actuation force and unique housing design, or a more stable, sophisticated typing experience paired with a commendable sound quality.
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