Gateron Mars vs. HMX Twilight
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mars and the HMX Twilight switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Mars and the HMX Twilight present intriguing options for those who prefer linear switches. The Gateron Mars switches are celebrated for their innovative design, featuring a unique POK stem combined with a durable Nylon and POM housing, providing a smooth and satisfying keystroke experience. Conversely, the HMX Twilight distinguishes itself with an extended travel distance of 3.85mm, which not only contributes to a quieter sound profile but also retains the signature clacky characteristics that HMX switches are known for. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Mars focusing on a unique tactile experience and the Twilight aiming to blend quiet operation with a classic feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.85 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Mars and the HMX Twilight switches, a striking similarity emerges in the construction of their top housings. Both switches utilize nylon for their top housing, which is a well-regarded material in the mechanical keyboard community. The similarity in this material suggests that both switches will produce comparable sound profiles when typing. Nylon's inherent softness allows it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and more full-bodied auditory experience. This quality contributes to a duller and rounder sound, making typing on both the Mars and the Twilight switches pleasing and enjoyable for users who appreciate a more muted acoustics profile.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the two switches are distinctly different, which introduces unique characteristics to their overall sound and feel. The Gateron Mars features a bottom housing made of POM (polyoxymethylene), a material known for its ability to generate a distinct and pleasing sound profile that leans towards the deeper and more muted side. This contrasts with the HMX Twilight, which again uses nylon for its bottom housing. While nylon is a good material for producing sound, the nuances brought about by POM in the Mars switch mean that the bottom-out sound and feel are particularly affected by this difference. Users may notice that the Mars switch has a slightly richer acoustic quality at the bottom while the Twilight, being nylon-based, will have characteristics more in line with its top housing.
The differing bottom housing materials imply that users who switch between the Gateron Mars and HMX Twilight may experience variances in key feel and sound, particularly during the actuation and bottoming out of keys. While both switches share the same nylon top housing qualities, which favor a softer, more muted sound during release, the Mars’s POM bottom housing enhances depth and richness, providing a contrast to the comparatively uniform nylon used in the Twilight's bottom housing. Thus, while the top housings align in terms of performance and character, the distinct bottom housing materials accentuate the differences in typing experience, suggesting that each switch has its unique flavor despite their shared nylon components.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Mars linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, there's a notable difference in their actuation forces. The Mars switch requires an actuation force of 45 grams, making it slightly heavier than the HMX Twilight, which has an actuation force of 42 grams. This makes the HMX Twilight the lighter option, potentially more suitable for extended typing sessions since it requires less force to trigger a key press. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Twilight has a defined bottom out force of 50 grams, while the bottom out force for the Mars switch remains unknown. This means that users opting for the Twilight will likely experience a more distinct tactile feedback when pressing keys all the way down, while the experience with the Mars switch could vary due to the lack of specific data. Overall, those who prefer a lighter typing experience should consider the HMX Twilight, while the Gateron Mars may appeal to users looking for a more substantial push feel, although it’s unclear how it compares in the bottom out aspect.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Mars linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, there is a notable difference: the Mars features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Twilight has a longer travel distance of 3.85 mm. This means that the Mars switch provides a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers and those who prioritize quicker response times. In contrast, the longer travel distance of the Twilight switch could be more suitable for users who enjoy a more substantial depth and a less abrupt feel when pressing keys. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, as the shorter Mars brings responsiveness, whereas the longer Twilight offers a more pronounced tactile experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Mars has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mars for $5.50.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Mars switch is known for its muted and smooth output, primarily due to its innovative POK stem combined with a housing made from a blend of Nylon and POM. This design tends to dampen the noise, making it less intrusive than some traditional linear switches. Conversely, the HMX Twilight switch features an extended travel distance of 3.85mm, contributing to a slightly quieter sound while preserving the signature clacky characteristics inherent to HMX switches. Users may notice that both switches offer different sound profiles, influenced by their unique constructions and the way they interact with keyboards and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Mars switch is characterized by its plush smoothness, delivering an exceptionally consistent keystroke. The design of the switch aims to ensure minimal friction during operation, providing an enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight switch also emphasizes smoothness but pairs it with a longer travel distance, which can create a unique sensation during typing. This extended travel can offer a different feedback experience that some users may find enjoyable, especially if they appreciate the sensation of bottoming out.
Overall, both the Gateron Mars and HMX Twilight linear switches cater to users seeking a smooth typing experience, albeit with distinct sound and feel characteristics. The Mars is quieter and more subdued, while the Twilight manages to balance a slightly clackier response with its extended travel. If sound and feel are key considerations for your mechanical keyboard journey, either choice will provide you with satisfying results, although you might prefer one over the other based on your specific preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Mars and HMX Twilight linear switches, your choices should align with your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you favor a smoother and quieter typing experience, the HMX Twilight with its soft bottom-out force of 50 grams might be the better option for you, especially if you enjoy a slightly quieter sound profile that still retains a satisfying feedback. This makes it an excellent choice for those who engage in prolonged typing sessions or gaming while wanting a harmonious balance between performance and sound. On the other hand, if you're intrigued by innovative switch technology and desire a switch that offers a unique tactile feel without the constraints of a specific bottom-out force, the Gateron Mars may suit you well. Its design functionality can offer a different experience, potentially tailored for enthusiasts seeking to explore varied feedback and sound dynamics. Ultimately, your personal preferences regarding noise, feel, and typing style will dictate which of these switches complements your mechanical keyboard experience best.
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