Outemu Spring Breeze vs. HMX Sunset Gleam
An in-depth look at the Outemu Spring Breeze and the HMX Sunset Gleam switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the type of feedback and tactile experience you prefer can greatly influence your overall typing or gaming experience. The Outemu Spring Breeze is a clicky switch revered for its distinct auditory feedback, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a lively typing experience and want to hear the satisfying "click" with each key press. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam, also known as the Duck Duck switch, is a linear switch that prioritizes smoothness and consistency without the clicky sound, providing a quieter and more fluid typing feel—ideal for those who prefer a subtler auditory profile or seek a faster response in gaming. Both switches cater to different user preferences: while the Spring Breeze appeals to tactile enthusiasts, the Sunset Gleam offers a more muted option for those who favor a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke. 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
40g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
1.50 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
Nylon
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Spring Breeze and the HMX Sunset Gleam, a clear distinction arises between their top housings. The Spring Breeze utilizes a nylon top housing, known for its softness, which leads to a deeper, fuller sound profile when typing. Its ability to absorb sound lends an element of muted richness that characterizes the overall typing experience. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam employs a polycarbonate top housing, a stiffer plastic that produces a sharper, crisper sound profile. This material’s rigidity enhances the clarity and resonance of the typing sounds, creating a different auditory feedback for users. Therefore, while both switches aim to deliver quality performance, the Spring Breeze offers a warmer sound in comparison to the bright and lively acoustics of the Sunset Gleam, providing users with distinct auditory experiences based on the top housing material.
On the flip side, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which results in a notable similarity between the two models when considering the overall typing feel. The nylon bottom housing contributes a deeper, fuller sound profile to both the Spring Breeze and Sunset Gleam, enhancing the typing experience in a way that balances the effects of the differing top housing materials. With both switch models incorporating nylon in their bottom housing, the tactile feel upon bottoming out and the associated quieter sound during strikes remain consistent. This shared characteristic may appeal to users who appreciate that deeper sound quality when actuating the keys, regardless of the contrasting acoustic experience introduced by the different top housings.
When both the top and bottom housings of the switches are taken into account, it's clear that they influence the sound profile in distinct ways. The nylon bottom housing is more impactful for the overall sound and feel when the switch is bottomed out, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Sunset Gleam largely dictates the sound upon key release. Thus, even as the Spring Breeze provides a warmer sound through its nylon top housing, the nylon bottom housing ensures a deeper resonance that aligns with the typing experience of the Sunset Gleam. In essence, users can achieve a balance of auditory characteristics by understanding how the materials of each housing contribute to the performance and overall feel of each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, some notable differences emerge. The Spring Breeze has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as medium-light, while the Sunset Gleam boasts a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a lower bottom out force of 48 grams. Therefore, users seeking a lighter typing experience may find the Sunset Gleam more appealing, particularly for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Spring Breeze's heavier bottom out force gives it a more substantial feel when the key is fully pressed down, catering to those who prefer a firmer key response. Overall, while both switches provide a good typing experience, the Outemu Spring Breeze offers a stronger push feel, making it better suited for users who enjoy a more tactile engagement, whereas the HMX Sunset Gleam is ideal for those who prioritize a lighter touch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, we see a distinction in their measurements that caters to different typing preferences. The Spring Breeze boasts a travel distance of 4 mm, aligning with the traditional preference for a deeper feel, which many typists appreciate for its sturdiness. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, catering to gamers who often prioritize quicker response times. This variance means that those who enjoy a hearty depth in their keystrokes may prefer the increasingly ample travel of the Spring Breeze, while those seeking a more responsive experience might find the Sunset Gleam's distance more favorable. Overall, the Spring Breeze is the longer switch, and the Sunset Gleam is the shorter one, reflecting the diverse choices available to users based on their specific typing or gaming needs.
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 Spring Breeze 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 Spring Breeze switch's sound characteristics are currently undefined, leaving its auditory profile open to interpretation based on the specifics of the keyboard build and keycap choices. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam is designed to produce a subtle top-out followed by a satisfying clack, which adds an enjoyable auditory feedback to typing. The latter's sound is further enhanced by the factory lubrication that HMX implements, leading to a smoother and more refined experience when the key is engaged.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Spring Breeze's tactile qualities remain unspecified, making it difficult to draw any direct comparisons or assess its overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Sunset Gleam is acknowledged for its linear design, which typically delivers a smooth keystroke without tactile bumps or clicks. This characteristic allows for quick key presses and an uninterrupted flow during typing or gaming, providing a unique sensation along with the auditory feedback.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Spring Breeze lacks a clear description regarding both sound and feel, the HMX Sunset Gleam offers a unique experience with its pleasing sound profile and smooth linear feel, thanks to its quality materials and care in manufacturing. If you prioritize a satisfying auditory experience with a refined typing touch, the Sunset Gleam is an excellent choice over the undefined qualities of the Spring Breeze.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and intended usage. If you enjoy a noticeable tactile feedback and an audible click that can enhance your typing experience, the Spring Breeze might be the right choice for you. Its medium-light actuation force of 55 grams provides a decent amount of resistance, catering to those who appreciate a bit more effort in their keystrokes. This can be particularly enjoyable for typing-intensive tasks, as the clicky sound may also provide satisfying auditory feedback that some users find motivating. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, quieter experience for tasks like gaming or prolonged typing, where rapid keystrokes are essential, the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch could be more suitable. With its lighter 48-gram bottom-out force, this switch allows for quicker actuation and less fatigue over time, all while maintaining a satisfying feel—thanks to its high-quality materials and factory lubrication. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your personal preferences regarding sound and feel, as well as the specific contexts in which you plan to use your keyboard.
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