Durock Sea Glass vs. HMX Twilight
An in-depth look at the Durock Sea Glass and the HMX Twilight switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Durock Sea Glass and the HMX Twilight both present appealing options for users who favor linear switches, yet they offer distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Sea Glass switches, celebrated for their visually striking pastel colors and proprietary material blend, provide a dry, airy typing sensation complemented by a smooth feel and a uniquely hollow sound signature. Weighing in at 62g for bottom-out force, they strike a balance between ease of use and tactile satisfaction. In contrast, the HMX Twilight features an extended travel distance of 3.85mm, contributing to a quieter typing experience while still retaining the distinctive clackiness characteristic of HMX switches. Each switch carries its own allure: the Sea Glass for its ethereal typing feel and aesthetic appeal, and the Twilight for its extended travel and subdued acoustics. 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
45g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.85 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
P3+
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Sea Glass and the HMX Twilight, notable differences emerge that influence their respective sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Sea Glass features a unique blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE for both its top and bottom housing. This combination results in a sound profile that is described as pleasant and slightly brighter, maintaining a certain auditory clarity without the sharpness that can sometimes accompany harder materials. In contrast, the HMX Twilight utilizes traditional nylon for both its top and bottom housing. This classic material is characterized by its softer texture, which contributes to a deeper, rounder sound profile that absorbs sound more effectively, ultimately rendering each keystroke more muted and less sharp than the Sea Glass.
In terms of their impact on the typing experience, the differences in housing composition further manifest. The Sea Glass’s distinct blend might create a typing experience that feels more vibrant and responsive, making it particularly suited for users who appreciate a brighter auditory feedback during their typing sessions. Conversely, the HMX Twilight, with its nylon housing, delivers a fuller sound profile that can lend a more subdued but satisfying tactile experience. The use of softer materials in the Twilight allows for better shock absorption, which can enhance overall comfort during prolonged typing sessions, catering to those who prefer a cushioned feel.
Although the top and bottom housing materials differ significantly between the Durock Sea Glass and HMX Twilight, users can achieve similar results in terms of performance. If one desires a sound experience that balances the brightness of the Sea Glass with the muffled warmth of the Twilight, careful selection of switch type and keystroke technique can bridge the gap. Since the bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel while the top housing affects the release sound, users may experiment with such variables to find a personalized balance, ensuring satisfaction regardless of the material specifics. Ultimately, both switches provide unique auditory and tactile experiences that cater to different preferences in typing style and sound aesthetics.
Weight
The Durock Sea Glass linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, which significantly impact typing experience. The Sea Glass requires an actuation force of 45 grams and has a bottom out force of 62 grams, categorizing it as a medium switch. In contrast, the Twilight features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, placing it in the light category. Consequently, if you prefer a lighter typing experience that can facilitate longer use without fatigue, the Twilight may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more substantial tactile feel while typing or gaming, the heavier forces of the Sea Glass could be more appealing. Overall, the Sea Glass is the heavier option compared to the Twilight, allowing for distinct preferences depending on the user's typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Durock Sea Glass linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, there is a subtle yet notable difference. The Sea Glass features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Twilight has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.85 mm. This makes the Sea Glass the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers or users seeking quicker response times. Conversely, those who prefer the more traditional feel of a deeper press might find the Twilight's 3.85 mm travel distance more satisfying, as it offers a little more depth in each keystroke. Overall, the small difference in travel distances may lead to varying experiences based on individual preferences for switch feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Sea Glass has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Glass for $4.87.
The HMX Twilight has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Twilight for $3.29.
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 Durock Sea Glass linear switch produces a uniquely hollow sound signature that can offer a distinct auditory experience during typing. This contrasts with the HMX Twilight's sound character, which is slightly quieter and retains the signature clacky qualities typical of HMX switches, stemming from its extended 3.85mm travel distance. While both switches provide an engaging acoustic aura that can enhance the typing experience, the differences in their sound profiles may appeal to different preferences. It’s important to note, however, that the sound of both switches can be influenced by the keyboard they’re used with and the materials of the keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Sea Glass switch can be characterized by its frictionless, mild, feathery, and easy-to-press nature, delivering an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience. This allows for minimal finger exertion and significantly reduces fatigue, making it an ideal choice for long typing sessions. In contrast, details about the feel of the HMX Twilight switch are currently unknown, making it difficult to draw direct comparisons in this area. However, the notable travel distance of the Twilight may contribute to its own unique typing sensation, which could be different from the Sea Glass’ light and airy feel.
In conclusion, while both the Durock Sea Glass linear switch and HMX Twilight linear switch offer appealing qualities, they cater to slightly different user preferences, particularly in terms of sound. The Sea Glass provides an airy, hollow sound with a frictionless, light feel that many might find comfortable for extended use. In contrast, the Twilight boasts a quieter, clacky sound, likely due to its longer travel distance, but lacks detailed information on its tactile sensations. Ultimately, your choice between them should be guided by personal preference for sound and feel, as both can yield an enjoyable typing experience but in contrasting ways.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Durock Sea Glass and the HMX Twilight linear switches should depend on your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you find yourself leaning towards a more medium force switch with a subtly unique typing experience, the Sea Glass is an excellent choice. Its distinct dryness and wispiness provide a satisfying yet lightweight feel that can alleviate finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Coupled with its hollow sound signature, it creates a distinct ambiance that can be appealing for both casual and office environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a gentle actuation that promotes effortless keystrokes, the HMX Twilight might be your go-to option. With its extended travel distance and subtly quieter characteristics, it’s particularly suitable for those who favor a speedy, less strenuous typing experience without sacrificing feedback. In essence, weigh the Sea Glass's smoother yet moderate force against the Twilight’s feather-light ease, and choose the one that resonates with your typing style and desired auditory experience.
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