Outemu Green vs. HMX Sunset Gleam
An in-depth look at the Outemu Green and the HMX Sunset Gleam switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Green and the HMX Sunset Gleam present two distinct yet popular options, each catering to different preferences and typing styles. The Outemu Green is a clicky switch, known for its satisfying audible feedback and tactile feel, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy the robust sound and sensation of each keystroke, ideal for typists and gamers seeking a pronounced response. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam, a linear switch, offers a smooth and quiet typing experience, free from the clicks that can distract or disrupt focus. This makes it an appealing option for those who often work in shared environments or prefer a softer touch while gaming. While both switches have their unique advantages, the choice ultimately hinges on personal preference: do you prefer the tactile feedback of a clicky switch, or the seamless flow of a linear one? 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
65g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Green and HMX Sunset Gleam switches both feature a top housing made from polycarbonate, which contributes significantly to their sound profile. Polycarbonate is noted for its ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to its relatively stiff composition. Consequently, both switches are likely to exhibit a clear and resonant sound when actuated. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it an excellent choice for those who want RGB lighting to shine through, as both switch models are designed with aesthetics in mind. Therefore, users seeking a visually appealing keyboard experience with notable sound characteristics will find similar results in both switch types when it comes to their top housing.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of the Outemu Green and HMX Sunset Gleam switches are made from nylon, a traditional and well-regarded material in mechanical switch design. Nylon's softer properties compared to polycarbonate contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. When typing on these switches, the nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder and duller acoustic experience. While the top housing enhances the clarity and resonance of keypresses, the nylon bottom housing brings a rich texture to the sound, creating a contrast between the two material types. This interplay between materials allows both switches to deliver a balanced sound profile, combining crispness from the polycarbonate top with the depth of the nylon bottom.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Green and HMX Sunset Gleam share similarities in their top housing material, they also exhibit distinct attributes due to their respective bottom housings. The polycarbonate tops give both switches a vibrant and clear sound, especially beneficial for RGB visibility, while the nylon bottoms imbue a softer, more resonant quality to the overall typing experience. When combining these qualities, users can enjoy a comprehensive auditory experience that emphasizes both sharpness and fullness, making either switch a strong candidate for enthusiasts looking to enhance their mechanical keyboard setup.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Green clicky switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces become evident. The Outemu Green requires a heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a substantial typing experience suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam offers a much lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it ideal for users who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions without fatigue. As such, the Outemu Green is the heavier option, while the Sunset Gleam stands out as the lighter choice. These differences in force characteristics cater to individuals with varying preferences, whether they favor a more robust tactile feedback or a lighter touch when typing.
Travel distance
The Outemu Green clicky switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that users of the Outemu Green switch will experience a more pronounced press as they engage with the keys, offering a hearty depth that some typists and gamers may find satisfying. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam, with its shorter travel distance, may appeal to those who prefer a quicker response time and a more efficient keystroke. The difference in travel distances highlights the varying user preferences: the Green switch is ideal for those who enjoy a traditional feel and deeper engagement, while the Sunset Gleam caters to those looking for speed and efficiency. Consequently, if you favor quickness and responsiveness, the HMX Sunset Gleam would be the better choice, whereas if you prefer a more substantial typing experience, the Outemu Green is likely to be more suitable.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Sunset Gleam has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sunset Gleam for $2.99.
The Outemu Green comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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
The Outemu Green clicky switch, while not explicitly noted for its sound profile, is typically characterized by a sharp, audible click upon actuation, making it ideal for typists who enjoy a pronounced auditory feedback. This offers both a satisfying performance and an engaging experience. Conversely, the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch is known for its smooth operation paired with a subtle top-out and satisfying clack; the combination of these qualities provides a more subdued sound yet still maintains a certain level of auditory feedback that is pleasing without being overly loud. Ultimately, if one appreciates a sound-centric typing experience, both switches can fulfill that need but in notably different fashions.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Green’s clicky mechanism implies a tactile resistance, delivering a noticeable bump that signifies actuation, which many typists find rewarding and can enhance typing accuracy. The Sunset Gleam, on the other hand, is a linear switch that emphasizes a smooth keystroke with no tactile feedback, making it ideal for those who prefer fluid motion while typing or gaming. This difference in feel caters to distinct typing preferences—those who enjoy tactile feedback versus those who favor an uninterrupted keystroke experience.
In conclusion, the Outemu Green and HMX Sunset Gleam switches cater to different aspects of the typing experience. The Green offers a tactile click that enhances engagement through auditory feedback, while the Sunset Gleam provides a smooth and subtle sound profile with a satisfying clack, perfect for those who appreciate linear switches. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, a typist can choose between a clicky experience or a silky glide. Ultimately, whether you lean towards one switch or the other will shape how you interact with your keyboard every day.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Outemu Green clicky switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch largely depends on your typing preferences and the environments in which you’ll be using your keyboard. If you enjoy tactile feedback and a more pronounced auditory experience while typing, the heavy 80-gram actuation force of the Outemu Green may be more suitable for you. This switch is ideal in situations where you want to feel a stronger resistance and hear the satisfying click with each keystroke, making it a great choice for office environments or gaming where feedback and precision are key. However, if you prefer a smoother, quieter typing experience, the HMX Sunset Gleam with its light 48-gram actuation force could better serve you. This switch’s design offers a delightful blend of materials for a subtle top-out and excellent factory lube, making it optimal for long typing sessions or shared spaces where noise levels are a concern. Ultimately, if you prioritize feel and responsiveness, go for the Outemu Green, but if you value speed and a softer touch, the HMX Sunset Gleam will likely be your best bet.
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