Gateron Mini i vs. HMX Sunset Gleam
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the HMX Sunset Gleam switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Mini i and the HMX Sunset Gleam present two distinct typing experiences, each catering to different preferences and environments. The Gateron Mini i is celebrated for its tactile feedback, providing users with a gentle sensation that enhances typing accuracy while minimizing noise—ideal for office settings where professionalism and quietness are paramount. This switch excels in long typing sessions, combining lightweight design and subtle responsiveness, making it a great choice for those who prioritize comfort without compromising on the joy of typing. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam, a linear switch, offers a different experience altogether. Known for its smooth keystrokes and satisfying acoustic profile, this switch features a quality build and excellent factory lubrication, ensuring a seamless transition between key presses. While it lacks the tactile bump, the Sunset Gleam appeals to typists who enjoy a fluid and uninterrupted typing experience, perfect for those who prefer to type quickly and effortlessly. Both switches have their unique strengths, catering to distinct needs—whether it’s the Gateron Mini i’s balanced tactility or the HMX Sunset Gleam’s smoothness and satisfying sound. 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
40g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Mini i and HMX Sunset Gleam switches showcase distinct differences in their top housing materials, which significantly influence the sound profiles produced during usage. The Mini i features a nylon top housing, known for its ability to generate a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer, sound-absorbing nature. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam employs a polycarbonate top housing that fosters a sharper and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffer composition. This hard plastic creates enhanced resonance, resulting in a more pronounced audio experience. Therefore, users seeking a warmer and fuller sound may gravitate towards the Mini i, while those who prefer a brighter auditory feedback will likely appreciate the Sunset Gleam.
Both switches, however, share a commonality in their bottom housing, as both feature nylon. This aspect ensures that both the Mini i and Sunset Gleam switches provide a consistent bottom-out sound experience characterized by the softer and more muted tone that nylon imparts. Given that nylon absorbs sound effectively, the bottom housing helps in maintaining a deep and cohesive sound across both switches, regardless of the differing top materials. Consequently, while the overall tonal experience differs between the two, the use of identical nylon in the bottom housing aligns the sound profiles at the bottom end, resulting in a similar bottom-out feel.
When considering the overall impact of the distinct top and bottom housings on the performance of the switches, it becomes evident that the materials complement each other. The nylon bottom housing provides a rich and full sound profile during key presses, while the varied characteristics introduced by the polycarbonate and nylon top housings interact to create a nuanced balance. The Mini i delivers a more subdued auditory experience upon release, while the Sunset Gleam offers a clearer and crisper sound. This interplay ensures that users can still achieve a satisfying typing experience whether they choose the Gateron Mini i or the HMX Sunset Gleam, even if the auditory profiles differ.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, we see some distinctions in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Mini i features an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Sunset Gleam has a slightly higher actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. Both switches are categorized as light, making them suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming, but the Mini i is marginally lighter overall due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces. This means that users who favor a lighter touch for a more effortless typing experience may lean towards the Mini i. In contrast, those who prefer a stronger push might find the Sunset Gleam's slightly elevated forces more appealing, as the actuation and bottom out forces contribute to a more substantial feel, despite both switches still being on the lighter side.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, the Mini i has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Sunset Gleam measures slightly longer at 3.5 mm. This difference, though minimal, suggests that the Mini i may offer a more responsive feel, which can be advantageous for gamers seeking quicker keystrokes. On the other hand, the Sunset Gleam, with its longer travel distance, might appeal to those who favor a deeper and more substantial tactile experience when typing. Therefore, if you're looking for a switch that provides slightly faster feedback, the Gateron Mini i would be the better choice, whereas the HMX Sunset Gleam could be favored for its more pronounced depth during use.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00 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
When it comes to sound profile, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a neutral character, delivering a moderate sound that works well in various environments, from home offices to busy workplaces. This muted sound makes it suitable for users who desire a quiet typing experience without sacrificing feedback, making it particularly desirable in professional settings. On the other hand, the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch is known for its satisfying clack at the top-out, which is enhanced by HMX's high-quality factory lube. This means that while the Sunset Gleam offers more auditory feedback, it might be less appropriate for quiet environments compared to the Mini i. Therefore, if you prioritize a subtly muted typing experience, the Mini i would be the right choice, while the Sunset Gleam would cater to those seeking audible satisfaction.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Mini i switches provide a bouncy, snappy typing experience which enhances responsiveness during use. Their light actuation force reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions, making them an ideal option for users who require a gentle yet engaging tactile response. The switch's mild and subtle characteristics mean that it caters to a wide array of users, whether you're a beginner or an experienced typist. Meanwhile, detailed information about the feel of the HMX Sunset Gleam is less defined, leaving a gap in understanding how it specifically operates in comparison. That said, if it's built following a standard linear switch feel, it may offer a smooth and even keystroke without the tactile bump, allowing for rapid typing.
Summarizing both switches, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch stands out in acoustic moderation and comfortable responsiveness, catering well to those seeking an unobtrusive yet satisfying typing experience, especially in shared spaces. The HMX Sunset Gleam, while likely possessing a more pronounced auditory feedback due to its design, could still impress those who enjoy a clack while typing. In choosing between them, it ultimately depends on whether you prioritize a quieter typing experience or a more engaging sound profile. If you desire characteristics like lightweight pressure and a gentle tactile nature, the Mini i excels, while the Sunset Gleam appeals more to those who want an audible presence in each keystroke.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and environment. If you find yourself primarily working in a quiet office or shared space, the Mini i is an excellent choice. Its gentle tactile feedback, lightweight actuation force, and neutral sound profile make it ideal for long typing sessions where comfort and discretion are key. You'll appreciate the bouncy, easy-to-press feel that enhances your typing experience while minimizing finger fatigue. On the other hand, if you enjoy the smoothness and responsiveness of a linear switch, the Sunset Gleam might better suit your needs. With its subtle top-out and satisfying clack, this switch offers a lively yet controlled typing experience, perfect for those moments when you want to feel each keystroke without being overly disruptive. Ultimately, your choice should reflect both your typing style and the environments in which you will use your keyboard, ensuring that your mechanical typing experience is both comfortable and gratifying.
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