HMX Sunset Gleam vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the HMX Sunset Gleam and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preference and desired typing experience. The HMX Sunset Gleam, also affectionately dubbed the Duck Duck switch, is lauded for its engaging sound profile, featuring a delightful blend of materials that create a subtle top-out and an overall satisfying clack. This switch, known for its exceptional factory lubing, appeals to users seeking a smooth and pleasant linear experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A from Sillyworks' "Project Rehash" / SLAY series caters to those who prefer a medium-weight switch with a sound signature that skews towards the deeper spectrum. This innovative switch reimagines traditional travel distances and incorporates advanced lubing techniques, making it a compelling option for typists looking for both performance and auditory satisfaction. While both switches fall under the linear category and offer unique characteristics, your ultimate choice will hinge on your specific preferences in typing feel and sound. 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
42g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
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 Gateron Type A switches present an intriguing comparison in their housing materials, especially concerning their top housings. The Sunset Gleam features a polycarbonate top housing, which is renowned for its ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate allows the switch to resonate more effectively, thus enhancing the clarity of auditory feedback. Conversely, the Gateron Type A utilizes nylon for its top housing, resulting in a deeper, fuller sound. This softer plastic absorbs sound rather than amplifying it, leading to a more muted and rounded auditory experience. While both materials serve the functional requirement of housing switch components, their sound profiles differ significantly, contributing to the overall typing experience.
When examining the bottom housings of both switches, we find another point of convergence: both the HMX Sunset Gleam and the Gateron Type A utilize nylon. This consistency in material means that typing on both switches will yield a similarly dampened sound resulting from the properties of nylon. The softer plastic effectively absorbs sound, leading to a deeper and rounder sound profile in both cases. Given that the bottom housing's characteristics primarily influence the bottom-out sound and feel during typing, users can expect a sense of consistency across both switches in this area, regardless of the differences present in their top housing materials.
Overall, the interplay between the distinct materials used in the top and bottom housings of the HMX Sunset Gleam and Gateron Type A switches showcases the complexity of switch acoustics. While the Sunset Gleam's polycarbonate top provides a brighter and more resonant sound, the nylon bottom balances this with a fuller auditory experience. On the other hand, the Type A's all-nylon construction promotes a unified sound profile that is deeper but less crisp. Therefore, while the materials lead to divergent sonic characteristics, the presence of nylon in both switches’ bottoms results in a shared foundation that enhances the overall typing experience, particularly in terms of sound absorption and feedback upon key release.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, noticeable differences emerge. The Sunset Gleam features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it ideal for users who appreciate a softer touch, especially beneficial for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Gateron Type A has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, catering to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Consequently, the Sunset Gleam is better suited for lighter key presses, while the Type A offers a firmer resistance, appealing to users who enjoy a more pronounced feedback from their switches. Thus, for those seeking a lighter experience, the Sunset Gleam stands out, while the Type A is better for individuals who favor a bit more weight in their typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch exhibit different travel distances, with the Sunset Gleam measuring at 3.5 mm and the Type A extending to 4 mm. This difference highlights the contrast in design preferences where the shorter 3.5 mm travel distance of the Sunset Gleam caters to those seeking quicker response times, making it a favored choice among gamers who thrive on speed and sensitivity. In contrast, the Gateron Type A, with its longer 4 mm travel distance, may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial keypress experience, providing a deeper feel that some find more satisfying. Overall, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Sunset Gleam would be the better option, while those who appreciate a heftier depth would lean towards the Type A.
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 Gateron Type A comes in at $4.70 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 HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch emits a sound that perfectly balances a subtle top-out with a satisfying clack, thanks to the meticulously chosen materials used in its construction. This results in a sound profile that is engaging without being overwhelming. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A presents a more subdued auditory experience characterized by its neutral sound signature. The Type A is designed to provide a moderate sound level that doesn’t distract, making it suitable for various environments such as home or office. While both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, the Sunset Gleam leans toward a more pronounced yet tasteful sound, while the Type A takes on a more reserved approach.
When it comes to tactile feel, the Sunset Gleam offers a sensation that many users describe as smooth and refined due to its excellent factory lube quality. This results in a crisp and clean actuation that enhances the overall typing experience. Meanwhile, the Gateron Type A is engineered as a medium-weight switch, providing a balanced feedback that appeals to a wide range of typists, whether they are beginners or seasoned users. This focus on a moderate actuation force allows for an enjoyable and effortless typing experience, although it might lack the distinctive characteristics of the Sunset Gleam.
In conclusion, both the HMX Sunset Gleam and Gateron Type A linear switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Sunset Gleam boasts a more expressive sound profile with a smooth tactile experience, while the Gateron Type A provides a neutral and subdued sound with a comfortable typing feel. Ultimately, newcomers should consider what aspects resonate more with their typing style, whether they prefer a dynamic auditory feedback or a more understated and versatile profile, as both switches can deliver excellent results depending on personal preference.
Conclusion
In summary, the choice between the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and specific use cases. If you prefer a lighter switch that gives you a delightful tactile feedback combined with a satisfying clack, the Sunset Gleam may be the ideal choice for you. Its factory lube provides a smooth experience that can enhance your typing enjoyment, making it particularly well-suited for casual typing or gaming sessions where response times matter. On the other hand, if you lean towards a medium-light switch with a more subdued sound and feel, the Gateron Type A is likely the better option. Its deeper sound profile, along with a balanced actuation force, makes it a versatile choice suitable for both work and play, especially in environments where a subtler noise level is preferable. Ultimately, the best switch for you hinges on whether you prioritize a light and lively feel or a more grounded, versatile typing experience.
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