Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between tactile and linear options can greatly influence the typing experience. The Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) switch stands out with its sharp tactile feel and hypertactile sensation, marked by a pronounced downstroke and an even stronger upstroke bump. This unique design not only provides a satisfying response during typing but also delivers a punchy sound that many users find enjoyable. On the other hand, the HMX SU switch offers a smoother, uninterrupted keystroke characteristic of linear switches, thanks to its full PA12 housing and T5 stem. The SU is celebrated for its subtle, deep sound profile that enhances a quieter typing experience, making it an ideal match for those who prefer less auditory feedback. While both switches have their distinct advantages—with the Moyu Blacks leaning towards a tactile and resonant display while the SUs offer a more fluid and subdued experience—they ultimately cater to different preferences in typing feel and 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T5
Top housing material
PBT
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
PBT
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) and the HMX SU switches differ significantly, showcasing distinct acoustic properties which contribute to the typing experience. The Moyu Black (Dark Jade) utilizes PBT (polybutylene terephthalate) for both its top and bottom housings. This choice of material leads to a relatively neutral sound profile that is neither overly crisp nor dull, providing a balanced auditory experience. Conversely, the HMX SU features nylon for both the top and bottom housings. Nylon is recognized for its softer properties, which absorb sound more effectively than the harder PBT, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that is characterized as both duller and rounder. Thus, while the Moyu Black aims for a balanced sound, the HMX SU leans towards a more muted acoustic signature.
Moreover, the distinction in material properties translates to different tactile characteristics between the two switches. The Moyu Black’s PBT housings, being denser, retain some firmness, which can contribute to a snappier feel during typing. This may influence the switch’s bottom-out sound, which is articulated when a key is pressed down completely. In contrast, the HMX SU's nylon housings promote a softer feel due to their pliability, making the bottom-out experience more subdued and potentially more comfortable for extended typing sessions. Consequently, while both switches may provide a satisfying typing experience, the tactile feedback introduced by their respective materials creates notably different sensations during use.
Despite these differences in material, there is a commonality in the way the materials impact the overall sound profile and user experience. For instance, both switch types will exhibit their unique acoustic properties—whether it be the neutral tones of the Moyu Black or the deeper resonance found in the HMX SU—while maintaining the quality associated with their respective materials. Although the sound produced when releasing a key, influenced by the top housing, will differ significantly, both switches will provide satisfying auditory feedback that aligns with their design ethos. As a result, users can expect that the specific sound and feel characteristics of each switch will shape their typing experience in distinctive ways, yet both serve to cater to different preferences among typists.
Weight
When comparing the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch to the HMX SU linear switch, notable differences emerge in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Moyu Black has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy, while the HMX SU features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Moyu Black requires a slightly stronger push to register a keystroke and continues to resist until a heavier push is needed to bottom out, making it suitable for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Conversely, the lighter HMX SU switch, with its lower actuation and bottom out forces, provides a gentler touch that is ideal for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming marathons, appealing to those who favor ease of use over tactile feedback. Therefore, if you're seeking a lighter feel, the HMX SU is the better choice, whereas the Moyu Black is more suited for those who appreciate a firmer keypress.
Travel distance
The Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX SU linear switch features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference indicates that the Moyu Black offers a deeper keystroke, which some users may prefer for a more tactile and substantial feel while typing or gaming. In contrast, the HMX SU's shorter travel distance caters to those seeking quicker response times and a snappier actuation, a trait often favored by gamers for enhanced performance. While both switches serve different preferences—one leaning towards a hearty depth and the other towards a more rapid actuation—the Moyu Black remains the longer option compared to the HMX SU.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) has an MSRP of $12.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) for $7.59.
The HMX SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU 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 Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) switches deliver a distinctive and resonant auditory experience. They produce a sharp, snappy sound that is clean and pronounced, contributing to an immersive typing atmosphere. The auditory feedback is enhanced by the unique properties of their PBT housing, which likely helps to amplify their sound profile. In contrast, the HMX SU linear switches are characterized by a more subtle and relatively deep sound due to their full PA12 housing. While exact details about their auditory characteristics are limited, it's reasonable to anticipate a quieter typing experience compared to the Moyu Black switches, which could cater to users preferring a less pronounced sound profile.
Regarding feel, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) switches provide an exceptional tactile experience. They are recognized for their sharp tactile bump, featuring an impactful downstroke and an even more accentuated upstroke bump that creates a hypertactile sensation. This results in a typing experience that feels snappy and responsive, with each keystroke delivering a clear feedback that makes typing precise and satisfying. The feel is further described as accented and sharp, providing a prominent tactile feedback without overwhelming the user. On the other hand, the tactile feel of the HMX SU linear switches hasn't been detailed, which leaves a gap in understanding their overall tactile experience. Therefore, users looking for a rich tactile feedback would likely lean towards the Moyu Blacks.
In conclusion, while the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switches are celebrated for their resonant sound and sharp, accentuated tactile feedback, the HMX SU linear switches present a contrasting option with their deeper and subtler sound profile. The Moyu Blacks excel in providing a striking auditory experience and pronounced tactile sensations, making them a great choice for those who enjoy an engaged typing experience. In contrast, the uncertainty surrounding the HMX SU's sound and feel leaves potential users with questions, likely aiming for a smoother, quieter experience, ideal for a more subdued typing environment. Ultimately, the choice between the two will hinge on personal preferences for tactile feedback and auditory presence.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch and the HMX SU linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal typing preferences and intended usage. If you favor a more involved typing experience that emphasizes tactile feedback and sound, the Moyu Blacks are an excellent option. Their medium-heavy bottom-out force of 67 grams caters to those who enjoy a strong, snappy tactile bump and a resonant sound profile, making them particularly suitable for typists who like to feel a pronounced response with each keypress. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, quieter experience with a lighter touch, the HMX SU switches, with their light bottom-out force of 50 grams and subtle sound profile, are ideal. These switches are best suited for users who prioritize speed and minimal resistance over tactile feedback, making them a great choice for gaming or extended typing sessions where fatigue is a concern. Overall, your decision should reflect how much you value tactile sensations versus a fluid, linear typing experience.
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