HMX SU vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the HMX SU and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, selecting the right switch can significantly impact your typing experience, and two popular options are the HMX SU linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch. The HMX SU, recognized for its full PA12 housing and T5 stem, offers a smooth keystroke with a subtle yet relatively deep sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer an uninterrupted, linear feel while typing or gaming. In contrast, the Durock T1 switch stands out with its comfortable tactile feedback, featuring a medium bump that provides a satisfying typing sensation and a low-pitched sound reminiscent of rain tapping on a window, appealing to users who enjoy the sensation of tactile feedback during their keystrokes. While both switches cater to different preferences—linear for a slick and consistent experience, and tactile for a more pronounced feedback—choosing the right switch ultimately depends on your individual typing style and what you find most comfortable. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T5
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX SU and the Durock T1, one notable difference lies in their top housings. The HMX SU features a nylon top housing, which is characterized by its softer plastic composition. This softer material tends to absorb sound better, resulting in a deeper, fuller sound profile that many users find satisfying for typing. In contrast, the Durock T1 employs a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer nature and translucency. This rigidity contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, making it more resonant and clear. Therefore, when using the HMX SU, one can expect a muted auditory experience, while the Durock T1 aligns more with a vibrant, crisp sound.
Both switches are similar in that they utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This commonality renders both the HMX SU and the Durock T1 similar in terms of sound profile at the bottom of the keypress. The nylon bottom housing in both models provides a deeper and fuller sound upon bottoming out, stemming from nylon’s acoustic-absorbing properties. Essentially, whether you’re typing on the HMX SU or the Durock T1, the experience at the bottom-out stage, where the key meets the base, will share a comforting sameness due to this material choice, enhancing user satisfaction regardless of the top housing differences.
Ultimately, the distinction between the HMX SU and the Durock T1 is most pronounced in their top housing, where nylon’s absorption properties clash with polycarbonate's resonant characteristics. This means that the sound experience will vary during different aspects of key interaction—nylon yielding a smoother, subdued sound while the polycarbonate creates a more vibrant auditory response during release. However, with both switches employing nylon on the bottom, the bottom-out experience remains uniformly full and rich across both options. Thus, while the top housings create varied soundscapes, the consistent use of nylon ensures users can enjoy similar robust acoustics when pressing the keys down.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX SU linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, distinct differences emerge. The HMX SU has a notably light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Durock T1 lacks a specified actuation force but has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, indicating a more substantial resistance when pressing down fully. This difference suggests that the Durock T1 may provide a firmer typing experience, which can be appealing to users seeking a more tactile feel. As a result, the HMX SU can be categorized as the lighter switch suitable for prolonged use, while the Durock T1 falls into the medium-heavy category, catering to those who enjoy a stronger push sensation. Overall, the choice between these switches will largely depend on individual preferences regarding typing experience and comfort during extended use.
Travel distance
The HMX SU linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Durock T1 tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This difference in travel distance means that the SU switch offers a more responsive feel, making it a suitable choice for gamers who favor quicker key presses. On the other hand, the T1 switch, with its longer travel distance, provides a heartier depth that some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Consequently, if you enjoy a balance between responsiveness and feedback, the T1 switch might better suit your needs, while the shorter travel distance of the SU switch caters to those seeking agility in their keystrokes. Overall, the HMX SU is the shorter switch, and the Durock T1 is the longer one, accommodating different user preferences in terms of key travel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU for $3.29.
The Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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
When it comes to sound, the HMX SU linear switch delivers a subtle yet deeper sound profile, characterized by its bass-heavy tone, reminiscent of a gentle rumble. This makes it well-suited for quieter environments where a mellow sound is preferred, providing a pleasing auditory experience without being overly intrusive. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch has a unique sound alone that evokes the soothing sound of rain falling on a window, giving it a low-pitched, neutral quality. This type of sound offers versatility, making it suitable for both work and leisure settings, but it may not provide the same sense of depth as the SU.
In terms of feel, the HMX SU linear switch is smooth with a direct keystroke experience, allowing for seamless typing without any tactile interruption, which can be appealing to those who prefer a consistent feel across their key presses. On the contrary, the T1 tactile switch is designed with a noticeable medium bump that creates a stepped tactile sensation. This means that typists can experience two distinct phases during their keypress, offering feedback without being overwhelming. The T1's design includes a polished finish, contributing to a refined tactile experience, and strikes a balance between providing sufficient resistance and facilitating smooth key travel.
In conclusion, while the HMX SU linear switch offers a deeper sound and a smooth typing experience, the Durock T1 tactile switch provides a delightful acoustic profile reminiscent of rain and a comfortable medium tactile feedback. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the SU being preferred for a tranquil typing experience and the T1 appealing to those who enjoy tactile sensations without being too aggressive. Ultimately, your choice between them will depend on whether you prioritize a smooth linear feedback or a satisfying tactile bump in your keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX SU linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch ultimately hinges on your personal typing preferences and specific use cases. If you prefer a light touch and enjoy a subtle sound profile while typing, the HMX SU is an excellent option. Its low actuation force of 50 grams allows for rapid, effortless typing, making it ideal for gamers or those who tend to type quickly without much fatigue. On the other hand, if you lean towards a more tactile feel while typing, the Durock T1 would be more suitable for you. With its medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams and a well-defined bump, it offers a rewarding tactile experience that's perfect for typists who value feedback in their strokes. The T1's low-pitched sound evokes a comforting ambiance, reminiscent of rain, which may also add to your overall satisfaction during long typing sessions. In summary, choose the HMX SU for light, swift keystrokes in quieter environments, while the Durock T1 is your go-to for a tactile and engaging typing experience that combines comfort with a distinctive sound.
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