Haimu Orange Sea vs. HMX Sunset Gleam

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Haimu Orange Sea and the HMX Sunset Gleam both stand out as exceptional linear options, but they cater to different preferences that can significantly enhance your typing or gaming experience. The Haimu Orange Sea is renowned for its impeccably smooth typing feel and neutral sound signature, making it an excellent choice for those who value a serene and uninterrupted typing environment. On the other hand, the HMX Sunset Gleam, also known as the Duck Duck switch, introduces a satisfying clack and a subtle top-out thanks to its expertly crafted materials and HMX's well-regarded factory lube. While the Orange Sea offers a whisper-quiet operation ideal for office settings or late-night gaming, the Sunset Gleam injects a bit more auditory feedback that could enhance the tactile enjoyment of your keystrokes. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Haimu Orange Sea Linear

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$2.79 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Haimu Orange Sea and the HMX Sunset Gleam showcase a striking similarity in their top housing materials, as both utilize polycarbonate for this purpose. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Since both switches feature a clear top housing, they facilitate enhanced RGB lighting effects, adding to their aesthetic appeal and allowing users to experience vibrant lighting displays. The consistent use of polycarbonate in both models underscores a shared goal of achieving a resonant and bright auditory experience, making it evident that users can expect similar results regarding the sound profile when utilizing either switch.

Diving deeper into the bottom housing, both the Haimu Orange Sea and the HMX Sunset Gleam employ nylon, a classic choice in the realm of switch design. The characteristics of nylon contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer consistency, which absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. This quality produces a duller and rounder auditory experience, providing a pleasant contrast to the crisp sounds generated by their polycarbonate tops. Consequently, while the top housing emphasizes the clarity and brightness of sound, the nylon bottom housing enriches the overall experience by adding depth, thus creating a balanced sound profile in both switches.

In summary, while both the Orange Sea and the Sunset Gleam share identical materials for their top and bottom housings, this harmonious material selection results in a cohesive auditory experience across both models. With polycarbonate's ability to enhance the brightness of sound and nylon's contribution to the depth of auditory performance, users will note that pressing down and releasing keys produces a well-rounded sound. The interaction between the stiffer polycarbonate and the softer nylon creates a unique synergy that is evident in both switch designs, ensuring that users can enjoy a satisfying auditory feedback regardless of their choice.

Weight

When comparing the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch to the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, we find notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Orange Sea features an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option overall. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This means that the Sunset Gleam delivers a more substantial typing experience, appealing to those who prefer a firmer push while typing or gaming. Despite both switches being classified as light, the Orange Sea is lighter than the Sunset Gleam, making it potentially more suitable for those seeking comfort during extended use. Ultimately, while both switches offer a satisfying experience, the choice between them may come down to personal preference for either a lighter touch or a more pronounced actuation feel.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, the Orange Sea measures 3.6 mm, while the Sunset Gleam is slightly shorter at 3.5 mm. This makes the Orange Sea the longer option by 0.1 mm. The marginal difference in travel distance highlights the subtle yet impactful variations in key feel and responsiveness. Gamers may lean towards the Sunset Gleam for its shorter travel distance, which allows for quicker actuation and faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial depth when typing might find the Orange Sea's longer travel distance more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice depends on personal preference for either a brisk and responsive feel or a deeper, more deliberate typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch is characterized by its neutral sound signature, making it a versatile choice for users who prefer a more understated auditory experience. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam features a subtle top-out and a satisfying clack, which provides a bit more acoustic feedback without being overwhelming. This difference suggests that the Orange Sea may be more appealing to those who enjoy a quieter typing experience, while the Sunset Gleam may attract users who appreciate a hint of auditory response.

In terms of feel, both switches exhibit impressive smoothness, but they cater to slightly different preferences. The Haimu Orange Sea is known for its impeccably smooth typing feel, making it a suitable option for those who prioritize fluid keystrokes and effortless typing. On the other hand, the Sunset Gleam not only offers a similarly smooth experience thanks to its high-quality materials and factory lube but also introduces a bit of texture with its satisfying clack when the key is fully pressed down. This could make the Sunset Gleam feel a bit more engaging for users who enjoy tactile sensations during their typing sessions.

In conclusion, while both the Haimu Orange Sea and HMX Sunset Gleam linear switches provide excellent smoothness, they cater to different sound preferences and tactile experiences. The Orange Sea offers a neutral, quieter sound and a super smooth feel, ideal for users who prefer minimal distractions while typing. Conversely, the Sunset Gleam delivers a more pronounced sound with its satisfying clack and also maintains a smooth feel, appealing to those who enjoy a touch of auditory feedback. Depending on what you're looking for in a linear switch, you'll find that both can offer reliable and enjoyable typing experiences, although the nuances in sound and feel will guide your final choice.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, consider your personal typing style and preferences. If you favor a lighter touch with a remarkably smooth feel and a neutral sound signature, the Haimu Orange Sea might be your best choice. Its 45-gram bottom-out force makes it ideal for long typing sessions where comfort is a priority, as you can expect minimal strain on your fingers. On the other hand, if you appreciate a slightly firmer press with a touch of character, the Sunset Gleam offers a satisfying clap sound and a well-balanced typing experience. Its 48-gram bottom-out force, coupled with excellent factory lube, makes each keystroke feel tactile yet smooth—perfect for those who enjoy a bit more feedback in their switches. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you desire a smoother, quieter option or if you prefer a switch that provides a pleasant sound and feel.

Mentioned in this article

Haimu Orange Sea Linear

$2.79 per 10

Learn more

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more