Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) vs. HMX Twilight
An in-depth look at the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) and the HMX Twilight switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) and the HMX Twilight present two distinct yet appealing options catering to different typing preferences. The Moyu Black, a tactile switch, is renowned for its sharp tactile feedback and hypertactile sensations, delivering an impactful typing experience characterized by a pronounced downstroke and an even more pronounced upstroke bump. Its medium-heavy feel and distinctive bottom-out sound make it ideal for those who crave a tactile response and an auditory pop with each keystroke. In contrast, the HMX Twilight, known for its linear design, offers a smoother typing experience with an extended travel distance that results in a quieter sound, perfect for users who prefer a more subdued action while still enjoying the signature clacky characteristics typical of the HMX line. Both switches offer unique advantages: the Moyu Black for users seeking tactile engagement and a dynamic typing experience, and the Twilight for those who appreciate fluid keypresses without the noise and interruption of tactile bumps. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) and the HMX Twilight, it is clear that the two switches offer distinct sound profiles that result from their differing materials. The Moyu Black (Dark Jade) features PBT (Polybutylene Terephthalate) for both its top and bottom housings. PBT is known for providing a neutral sound profile; while it may not project the level of crispness associated with some harder plastics, its subdued character allows for steady typing without overwhelming auditory stimulation. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, which is a classic material that confers a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic nature. This inherent softness means that nylon absorbs sound more effectively than PBT, resulting in a duller and rounder acoustic quality that some users may prefer.
The differences in construction materials also lead to variations in how each switch feels and sounds during operation. In the case of the Moyu Black (Dark Jade), the uniformity of PBT across both housings helps maintain a consistent user experience. The relatively neutral sound profile means that the tactile feedback might be less pronounced compared to switches that incorporate nylon. Conversely, the versatile qualities of the HMX Twilight's nylon housings shine during usage—particularly with regard to bottom-out sounds, which are typically muted and smooth due to the material's sound-absorbing characteristics. Thus, during keystrokes, the user can expect a richer auditory feedback that is enjoyable for those looking for more depth in their typing experience.
Despite these differences, users can achieve comparable results in terms of overall typing experience and sound profile by understanding how each material contributes to the final outcome. The unique characteristics of each switch's top and bottom housing shape the sound and feel, but when combined, the elements of both Moyu Black (Dark Jade) and HMX Twilight create distinctive typing sensations. Users looking for more neutrality may gravitate towards PBT, while those who prefer a more sonorous and round sound signature may find nylon appealing. Each switch, therefore, provides a unique offering that allows for a tailored typing experience based on material preferences and desired auditory feedback.
Weight
When comparing the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch to the HMX Twilight linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Moyu Black has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the lighter 42 grams of the Twilight switch, making the Moyu Black more suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In terms of bottom out force, the Moyu Black also requires a greater force at 67 grams, while the Twilight's bottom out force is significantly lighter at just 50 grams. This means that users who favor a lighter switch for longer typing sessions or gaming might find the HMX Twilight more comfortable, whereas those who appreciate a stronger push feel might opt for the Moyu Black. Overall, the Moyu Black is the heavier option, while the Twilight offers a lighter feel, catering to different preferences in switch characteristics.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distances of the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch reveals a notable difference that may impact users' preferences. The Moyu Black has a travel distance of 4 mm, providing a more traditional feel that many users might find satisfying, especially those who enjoy a hearty depth in their key presses. In contrast, the HMX Twilight features a shorter travel distance of 3.85 mm, catering to those who prefer a quicker response and a less abrupt action. As a result, if you're seeking more responsiveness in your keystrokes, the Twilight switch might be the better choice. Overall, the Moyu Black offers a longer travel distance compared to the Twilight, which highlights the distinction between those preferring a more tactile experience and those favoring rapid actuation.
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 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 Moyu Black (Dark Jade) delivers a distinct, resonant auditory experience that is both clean and sharp. The sound is characterized by a punchy, snappy quality on downstroke, thanks to the strong tactile bump that provides an accentuated bottom-out. In contrast, the HMX Twilight linear switch offers a relatively quieter typing experience, due to its extended travel distance of 3.85mm, which tends to dampen the sound of each keystroke. Despite this quieter characteristic, the Twilight switch retains a signature clacky quality typical of HMX linear switches. Ultimately, if you're looking for a more pronounced auditory feedback, the Moyu Blacks will resonate more sharply compared to the subtler acoustics of the Twilight switch.
In terms of feel, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) is known for its accented and sharp tactile sensations. The switch produces a highly pronounced tactile bump that is both snappy and impactful, allowing users to distinctly feel feedback with every keystroke. This strong tactile response elevates the typing experience, making it engaging for those who appreciate noticeable tactile cues. In contrast, the HMX Twilight switch has a bouncier feel, characterized by a spring-like response that provides a lively, elastic feedback with each press. This difference in tactile engagement means that if you prefer a strong tactile punch, the Moyu Blacks will excel, while the Twilight's bouncy nature offers a more fluid and less defined feedback.
In conclusion, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) and HMX Twilight switches present two distinct typing experiences shaped by their unique sound and feel profiles. The Moyu Blacks are resonant and sharply tactile, providing a pronounced auditory and tactile feedback, while the Twilights offer a quieter, bouncy feel with a more subdued auditory experience. Depending on your preferences in tactile feedback intensity and sound, you might find the Moyu Black's distinctive sharpness appealing for a more engaging typing experience, while the HMX Twilight may suit those who appreciate a softer, springy touch with less auditory impact. These differences play a crucial role in how each switch will perform on your keyboard.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a medium-heavy feel and desire a sharp, pronounced tactile feedback, the Moyu Black is an excellent choice. Its hypertactile nature and resonant sound profile create a uniquely satisfying typing experience, particularly appealing for those who appreciate distinct keypresses and a strong tactile bump. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and a smooth, quieter keystroke, the HMX Twilight is the way to go. With its extended travel distance and bouncy feedback, this linear switch facilitates a more fluid typing experience, making it ideal for long typing sessions or gaming where rapid keypresses are common. In essence, your choice should reflect whether you prioritize tactile sensation or a smooth, quieter action in your mechanical keyboard experience.
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