HMX Sunset Gleam vs. HMX Twilight
An in-depth look at the HMX Sunset Gleam and the HMX Twilight switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Sunset Gleam and HMX Twilight stand out as two compelling options, both classified as linear switches but with their own unique characteristics. The Sunset Gleam, also affectionately dubbed the Duck Duck switch, is celebrated for its perfect blend of materials that deliver a subtle top-out and satisfying clack, complemented by HMX's renowned factory lube that enhances its overall smoothness. In contrast, the HMX Twilight elevates the linear experience with an extended travel distance of 3.85mm, resulting in a quieter typing sound while still maintaining that satisfying clacky texture known to HMX switches. While the Sunset Gleam may appeal to those who appreciate a more pronounced acoustic feedback, the Twilight could resonate with users who prefer a slightly subdued sound profile without sacrificing responsiveness. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.85 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Sunset Gleam and the HMX Twilight showcase distinct housing materials that significantly influence their sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Sunset Gleam utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is characterized by its stiffness and translucency. This construction contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it particularly adept at enhancing the effects of RGB lighting due to its clear nature. In contrast, the Twilight features a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper, fuller sound profile. The softer characteristics of nylon allow it to absorb more sound, ultimately creating a sound that is duller and rounder, facilitating a more muted auditory experience. This fundamental difference in the top housing materials results in contrasting sound profiles when engaging with the two switches.
Beneath the surface, both switches present a nylon bottom housing that serves a similar function. Aesthetic and audible characteristics remain consistent, with nylon enhancing a deeper and fuller sound for both designs. The nylon bottom housing plays a crucial role in the tactile feedback and bottom-out sound, contributing to a duller auditory signature that is consistent across the HMX Sunset Gleam and HMX Twilight. Despite the differences in their top housings, the similar materials in the bottom housings ensure that users will experience a rounded auditory sensation when pressing down on either switch. This shared trait in their design means that while they may differ in sound upon release, the sensation during activation remains comparable.
In summary, the contrast between the HMX Sunset Gleam's polycarbonate top housing and the HMX Twilight's nylon top housing results in distinctive sound profiles, with the Gleam favoring a sharper sound and the Twilight leaning towards a fuller tone. However, the use of nylon for both bottom housings creates a common ground, allowing users to enjoy a deeper sound experience upon key activation. The interplay between both top and bottom housings illustrates how different materials can yield varying sound qualities, demonstrating the thoughtful design behind each switch. Despite their differences, users can still achieve a satisfying tactile experience thanks to the shared properties of the nylon integration, highlighting a crucial element in switch performance.
Weight
The HMX Sunset Gleam and HMX Twilight linear switches showcase some interesting similarities and differences regarding their actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches share the same actuation force of 42 grams, which allows users to achieve a keystroke with the same amount of pressure. This uniformity in actuation force means that typists and gamers can expect similar responsiveness when pressing either switch. However, the bottom out force diverges slightly; the Sunset Gleam has a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Twilight's is slightly heavier at 50 grams. This difference makes the Twilight switch feel a touch firmer when bottoming out. Consequently, while both switches are classified as light, the Sunset Gleam offers a marginally lighter typing experience compared to the Twilight, appealing to those who prefer a softer touch for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons.
Travel distance
The HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it the shorter option compared to the HMX Twilight linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.85 mm. This means that when pressing down on keys, users of the Sunset Gleam will experience a quicker response time due to the reduced travel distance, appealing to those who favor rapid actions in gaming or typing. Conversely, the Twilight’s longer travel distance can provide a more pronounced tactile feel that some users may prefer for a satisfying, deeper key press. In summary, if responsiveness is a priority, the Sunset Gleam serves as the better choice; however, for those who appreciate a more substantial typing experience, the Twilight is the superior option.
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 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
In terms of sound, the HMX Sunset Gleam is characterized by a subtle top-out paired with a satisfying clack, providing a pleasing acoustic feedback that is enjoyable during typing sessions. This sound profile reflects HMX's reputation for crafting switches that produce a distinct auditory experience. In contrast, the HMX Twilight linear switch features a slightly quieter sound due to its extended 3.85mm travel distance, yet it still maintains the signature clacky characteristics associated with HMX switches. Ultimately, both switches deliver engaging auditory experiences, although the Sunset Gleam leans more towards pronounced acoustic feedback while the Twilight offers a more subdued sound.
When it comes to feel, the Sunset Gleam excels with its smooth travel and a tactile element at the top-out, creating a satisfying sensation during each keystroke. This blend of materials contributes to the overall enjoyment of typing, making it quite appealing for those who appreciate a responsive feel. On the other hand, the Twilight provides a similar smoothness in keystroke, although the extended travel distance may offer a different experience, potentially leading to a more gradual actuation. While both switches aim to enhance the typing experience, the Sunset Gleam stands out with its tactile feedback, while the Twilight offers a unique take on a linear experience.
In summary, both the HMX Sunset Gleam and HMX Twilight linear switches have their distinctive qualities, with the Sunset Gleam offering a lively sound and tactile feedback, while the Twilight emphasizes a quieter sound profile and extended travel. For gamers and typists alike, either switch will provide excellent performance, with the choice ultimately depending on personal preferences in sound and feel. Regardless of the selection, users can expect an engaging typing experience characteristic of HMX switches.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Sunset Gleam and the HMX Twilight linear switches, you should consider your personal preferences and typing habits. If you enjoy a lighter bottom-out force and value a satisfying tactile experience with a clack that resonates pleasantly, the Sunset Gleam might be the ideal choice for you. Its lighter actuation at 48 grams, combined with HMX's quality manufacturing and factory lubrication, ensures a smooth, enjoyable typing experience that can keep you engaged for extended periods. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier actuation combined with a longer travel distance—3.85mm in this case—and a quieter operation while still retaining the clacky feel typical of HMX switches, then the Twilight could be more suited to your needs. The 50 grams of resistance offers a bit more feedback, which can be advantageous for those who type with more force or seek a bit more resistance in their keystrokes. Ultimately, your choice will boil down to your tactile and auditory preferences, as well as whether you favor a lighter or slightly heavier typing experience.
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