Outemu Brown vs. HMX Sunset Gleam

Overview

When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Brown and the HMX Sunset Gleam stand out for their unique characteristics and user experiences. The Outemu Brown, a tactile switch, is often favored by typists and gamers who appreciate a tactile bump that provides feedback during keystrokes, enhancing typing accuracy without the loud noise of a clicky switch. On the other hand, the HMX Sunset Gleam, also known as the Duck Duck switch, is a linear switch that delights users with its smooth keypress and subtle top-out, making it ideal for those who desire a quieter experience while still enjoying a satisfying clack thanks to HMX's excellent factory lube. While the Outemu Brown is perfect for those who enjoy tactile feedback and precision, the Sunset Gleam appeals to users seeking a seamless typing experience without interruption. 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 Brown Tactile

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$3.10 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials used in both the Outemu Brown and HMX Sunset Gleam switches share a strong similarity, as they both exhibit a polycarbonate top housing. This common choice contributes to a high-pitched and crisp sound profile for both switches, which is often sought after by users looking for clarity in their typing experience. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, enhances the resonance and acoustic characteristics when compared to softer materials, allowing for a sharper auditory response during use. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for optimal RGB lighting effects, making both switches visually appealing for those who appreciate customizable keyboard aesthetics.

In contrast to their identical top housing, the Outemu Brown and HMX Sunset Gleam depart from one another with their bottom housing materials. Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, a material known for its ability to absorb sound effectively. This feature results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon's softer nature mutes harsher noises often characteristic of harder plastics. As such, both switches provide a well-rounded sound experience, with deeper tones from the bottom housing complementing and balancing the higher sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing. This combination underscores the thoughtful design approach in crafting a keyboard switch that caters to users' diverse auditory preferences.

The interplay of materials in the Outemu Brown and HMX Sunset Gleam ultimately leads to a harmonious sound profile that draws upon both the resonant qualities of their polycarbonate tops and the muffled richness of their nylon bottoms. While the top housing emphasizes the higher frequencies when releasing the key, the nylon bottom housing provides a fuller sound when bottoming out. The result is a switch that combines both clarity and depth, demonstrating how careful selection of materials can achieve a well-rounded and pleasing auditory experience. Thus, despite the differences in the bottom housing, users can expect a cohesive performance from both switches, characterized by a blend of sharpness and fullness in their sound.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Brown tactile switch to the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, significant differences in their actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Outemu Brown requires a medium-heavy actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the HMX Sunset Gleam is considerably lighter with an actuation force of only 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This substantial difference in weight means that the Brown switch provides a stronger push feel, making it suitable for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience, whereas the Sunset Gleam's lighter feel is better suited for extended typing sessions or gaming. In summary, for those who prioritize a heavier tactile switch, the Outemu Brown is the better choice, while the HMX Sunset Gleam caters to those who favor a lighter, more effortless keystroke.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, we see a notable difference. The Outemu Brown has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is in line with traditional switch designs, offering a more substantial depth that some users prefer for a tactile feel. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam features a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, catering to those who favor quicker response times often sought after by gamers. Consequently, if you're looking for a switch that provides a more pronounced tactile feedback, the Outemu Brown would be the better choice due to its longer travel distance, whereas the Sunset Gleam’s shorter distance may appeal to users seeking faster key presses.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Outemu Brown tactile switch tends to produce a rather muted sound profile, which is typical for tactile switches where the focus is more on the feel rather than the auditory feedback. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch is characterized by a subtle top-out and a satisfying clack, likely due to its unique blend of materials and excellent factory lubrication. This difference in sound may lend itself to a more engaging typing experience with the Sunset Gleam, appealing to users who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing, though it's important to consider that overall sound is also influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps.

When it comes to feel, the Outemu Brown is known for its tactile bump, providing a noticeable resistance at the actuation point. This tactile feedback can be satisfying for users who prefer to have a clear indication of when a key has been actuated without bottoming out. On the other hand, the HMX Sunset Gleam offers a smooth linear feel with no tactile bump, resulting in a fluid keypress without interruption. This can be appealing to those who value a seamless typing experience, particularly in fast-paced gaming or typing scenarios where smoothness is paramount. Ultimately, this contrast in feel between a tactile and a linear switch caters to different preferences.

In summary, the Outemu Brown tactile switch offers a more subdued sound and a distinct tactile feel, making it suitable for users who appreciate clear feedback during typing but prefer a quieter experience. Conversely, the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch stands out with its satisfying sound profile and smooth linear action, ideal for those looking for an unobstructed, fluid keystroke. Choosing between these switches will heavily depend on the user's personal preferences regarding sound and feel, with each providing its own unique typing experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing between the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you appreciate a moderate to heavy typing experience and enjoy tactile feedback, the Outemu Brown would suit you well, especially for typing or programming tasks where you want to feel the actuation without bottoming out harshly. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and the smoothness of a linear switch, the HMX Sunset Gleam is an excellent option, perfect for gaming or fast-paced typing where quick keystrokes and a satisfying clack sound enhance your experience. Additionally, the factory lube means you can expect a buttery-smooth feel right out of the box, making it very appealing for prolonged use. Ultimately, consider what you value most in your keyboard experience—whether it’s the tactile feedback of the Brown switch or the lightweight fluidity of the Sunset Gleam—as this will guide you to the switch that best fits your needs.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Brown Tactile

$3.10 per 10

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HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more