Jerrzi Poseidon vs. HMX Sunset Gleam

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the Jerrzi Poseidon and the HMX Sunset Gleam both offer unique qualities, despite being categorized as linear switches. The Poseidon is a notable option for minimal resistance and a smooth typing experience, making it an appealing choice for typists and gamers who prefer a quiet and fluid keystroke. On the other hand, the HMX Sunset Gleam, also known as the Duck Duck switch, is celebrated for its superior blend of materials that provide a subtle top-out and a satisfying clack sound, coupled with the excellent factory lubrication that HMX is renowned for. This makes the Sunset Gleam a fantastic choice for those who enjoy a balance of tactile feedback with a pleasing acoustic profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.

By the numbers

Jerrzi Poseidon Linear

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$4.00

$3.59 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Jerrzi Poseidon and HMX Sunset Gleam exhibit distinct contrasts in their housing materials which significantly affect their acoustic profiles and overall typing experience. The Poseidon features a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing, known for producing a deeper, more muted sound that is pleasing and unique. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam’s polycarbonate top housing is associated with a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, resulting from the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. This difference arises from the inherent properties of each material, where POM fosters a warm tone, while polycarbonate introduces clarity and resonance. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially compatible with RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the Sunset Gleam.

Looking at the bottom housing, the Poseidon utilizes POM again, echoing its muted acoustic characteristics for a consistent sound profile, while the Sunset Gleam opts for nylon, a classic material known for its softer texture. The nylon bottom housing provides a deeper, fuller sound that absorbs more noise than the harder POM, leading to a more rounded and softer audio output. This divergence reflects the impact of each material on the overall feel and sound of each switch; nylon’s softer properties emphasize a warm and plush experience, while POM’s firmer feel retains a more controlled acoustic result. The choice of materials in the bottom housing has a direct influence, particularly on the bottom-out sound, which is crucial in the typing experience.

Combining the attributes of both housing types within each switch helps illuminate their strengths. Although the Jerrzi Poseidon and HMX Sunset Gleam employ different materials for their top and bottom housings, they maintain distinct sound profiles by drawing on the individual characteristics of each component. In the Poseidon, the POM top and bottom work synergistically to produce a cohesive sound that leans towards warmth and depth, whereas the Sunset Gleam achieves its clarity and vibrancy through the contrast of a polycarbonate top with a nylon bottom. Ultimately, the differences highlight how varying materials can create unique auditory experiences even within switches that may otherwise serve similar functionality, offering users various sensory preferences in their mechanical devices.

Weight

When comparing the Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, we see differences in their actuation force that may appeal to varying user preferences. The Poseidon has an actuation force of 40 grams, while the Sunset Gleam requires a slightly higher actuation force of 42 grams, making the Poseidon the lighter option of the two. However, the Poseidon lacks a specified bottom out force, whereas the Sunset Gleam features a bottom out force of 48 grams. This means that users of the Sunset Gleam will experience a firmer bottoming out sensation, beneficial for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel. In contrast, the Poseidon may provide a cloud-like typing experience, albeit with an unspecified bottom out force. Overall, if you prefer a lighter actuation for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Poseidon would be more suitable, while the Sunset Gleam's stronger actuation and bottoming out might appeal to those seeking a more robust keystroke response.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch measures 3.4 mm, while the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This places the Poseidon as the shorter option by 0.1 mm, catering to those who prefer a more responsive typing experience, which can be particularly beneficial for gamers seeking faster reaction times. On the other hand, the Sunset Gleam’s slightly longer travel distance may appeal to users who enjoy a more pronounced and substantial depth when pressing the keys, providing a different tactile experience. Therefore, while both switches are relatively close in measurement, the Poseidon offers a quicker response, whereas the Sunset Gleam provides a deeper feel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch does not have a well-documented auditory profile, which makes it challenging to compare directly with other options. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam switch is celebrated for its blend of materials that contribute to a subtle top-out and a satisfying clack. This combination of attributes suggests that while the Sunset Gleam can provide an enjoyable auditory experience, the Poseidon may present a more muted sound profile, potentially leading to a quieter typing experience. Ultimately, the sound produced by both switches may also vary significantly depending on the specific keyboard used and the keycap materials selected.

Regarding feel, the Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch lacks a clear description of its tactile sensations, leaving room for speculation about the typing experience it offers. On the other hand, the Sunset Gleam promises a refined feel, likely enhanced by the factory lubrication HMX is known for. This lubrication can contribute to a smoother keypress, reducing friction and providing a more enjoyable feedback during typing. With the Poseidon’s feel being uncertain, it is challenging to predict its performance compared to the anticipated smoothness of the Sunset Gleam.

In summary, while the Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch remains undefined in terms of both sound and feel qualities, the HMX Sunset Gleam offers a more developed profile with a satisfying auditory experience and a smooth typing feel. Without clear information on the Poseidon, newcomers may find themselves leaning towards the Sunset Gleam for its established reputation and performance characteristics, setting expectations for a pleasant and enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch ultimately depends on your specific preferences and typing style. If you’re looking for an ultra-smooth experience with a lighter actuation, the Sunset Gleam switch might be your best bet, thanks to its 48 grams of bottom-out force, making it easier for rapid key presses, especially beneficial for gamers or fast typists. The HMX Sunset Gleam's pleasing sound profile and satisfying clack can enhance your typing experience, giving you that enjoyable tactile feedback while typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that allows for effortless key presses and perhaps a unique feel that stands apart from many standard offerings, you might gravitate towards the Poseidon switch. While further specifics on sound and feel are not available, the Poseidon’s distinguished characteristics, though undefined in this comparison, might appeal to those who value a distinct typing experience. Ultimately, assessing your priorities—whether it’s actuation force, sound, or feel—will help you decide which switch aligns better with your mechanical keyboard goals.

Mentioned in this article

Jerrzi Poseidon Linear

$4.00

$3.59 per 10

Learn more

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more