Outemu Black vs. HMX Sunset Gleam

Overview

When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Black and the HMX Sunset Gleam emerge as two intriguing linear options, each with its own strengths. The Outemu Black is famed for its consistent keystrokes, providing a reliable experience for typists and gamers alike, while its understated design makes it a versatile choice for any setup. On the other hand, the HMX Sunset Gleam, also known as the Duck Duck switch, stands out with its unique blend of materials that create a delightful top-out feel and a satisfying clack sound. Additionally, the excellent factory lube characteristic of HMX switches enhances smoothness, making it a captivating option for those seeking a more tactile experience. While both switches cater to users looking for linear feedback, their distinct qualities may appeal to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Black Linear

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$3.10 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Outemu Black and HMX Sunset Gleam switches both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which brings a distinct sonic quality to both switch designs. The polycarbonate material is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, attributable to its relatively stiff nature. This stiffness contributes to clarity and resonance when typing, allowing for a more articulate auditory experience. Furthermore, since both switches feature translucent polycarbonate, they are ideally suited for showcasing RGB lighting, making them visually appealing in setups that emphasize aesthetics alongside performance.

In contrast, both the Outemu Black and HMX Sunset Gleam employ nylon for their bottom housings. Nylon has long been regarded as a classic choice for switch housing material, primarily due to its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. Consequently, while the top housing contributes to the higher frequencies and initial keystroke sound, the nylon bottom housing dampens the sound, enhancing the overall tactile experience and rounding out the auditory profile of both switches.

Despite these shared characteristics in both the top and bottom housings, the distinct materials contribute to nuanced differences in sound and feel. The combination of a crisp polycarbonate top and a fuller nylon bottom means that tactile characteristics will manifest differently depending on which part of the switch is engaged. When pressing down on either switch, users will notice the impact of the nylon bottom housing, which influences the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback, while the polycarbonate top will distinctly shape the sound produced during the release of the key. Thus, although the materials are the same for each switch type, the interplay of properties between the two housing materials shares a symbiotic relationship in creating a balanced typing experience for users.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Black linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, there is a notable difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Outemu Black requires a relatively heavy actuation force of 65 grams and has a bottom out force of 82 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam is significantly lighter, with an actuation force of just 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This lighter force can make extended typing sessions more comfortable for users who favor a softer touch. Therefore, for individuals who enjoy a heavier key feel, the Outemu Black would be the better choice, while the HMX Sunset Gleam is optimal for those seeking a lighter touch that allows for prolonged use without fatigue.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Black linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, we find notable differences that cater to varying preferences in key feel and responsiveness. The Outemu Black switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with traditional preferences for a more substantial keypress experience. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it a more responsive option favored by gamers who seek quicker key actuation. This shorter travel distance allows for faster response times, although some users might find it feels too abrupt. Ultimately, those who prefer a deeper, more tactile experience would likely gravitate towards the Outemu Black, while those who prioritize speed may prefer the Sunset Gleam, highlighting the contrast between a traditional and a more modern switch design.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Outemu Black switch lacks any notable characteristics that stand out, which often leads to a muted acoustic profile. Conversely, the HMX Sunset Gleam switch offers a subtle top-out with a satisfying clack, creating an appealing auditory experience that many enthusiasts enjoy. It’s important to note that the sound produced by any switch can vary significantly based on the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used, so while the Sunset Gleam has its distinct qualities, the overall sound will depend on the setup.

When evaluating the feel, the Outemu Black switch does not have any specific standout features that define its tactile response, which might make it feel less engaging for some users. On the other hand, the Sunset Gleam is celebrated for its thoughtfully blended materials, contributing to a smooth linear action that many find satisfying during use. This generally leads to a more pleasurable typing experience, especially for those who appreciate the nuances of tactile feedback that accompany a quality switch.

In conclusion, while the Outemu Black switch may come off as somewhat bland in both sound and feel, the HMX Sunset Gleam offers a more refined auditory and tactile experience, thanks in part to its factory lubrication and material composition. For newcomers, the Sunset Gleam is likely to provide a more satisfying and dynamic typing experience, while both switches will ultimately yield similar results in sound profile and feel unless a specific setup enhances those factors.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Outemu Black linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing requirements. If you favor a heavier key press and enjoy a more deliberate typing experience, then the Outemu Black with its robust bottom-out force of 82 grams might be your ideal choice. This heavier actuation can provide a tactile feedback that some users find reassuring, particularly if you're doing a lot of typing or gaming that requires precision. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter and more effortless keystroke, the HMX Sunset Gleam, with its 48 grams of actuation force, could be the better option for you. Its satisfying clack and buttery smooth feel, thanks to the high-quality factory lube, makes it an excellent choice for long typing sessions or casual gaming, where speed and comfort are key. Ultimately, your decision should align with how much force you like to apply while typing and the type of feedback you crave from your switches.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Black Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more