HMX Sunset Gleam vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the HMX Sunset Gleam and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Sunset Gleam and the Gateron Type L stand out as intriguing options for users seeking a linear switch experience. The HMX Sunset Gleam, also affectionately known as the Duck Duck switch, captivates with its impressive blend of materials that delivers a subtle top-out sensation along with a satisfying clack, complemented by HMX's renowned factory lube. This makes it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a touch of auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L, part of Sillyworks' innovative "Project Rehash" / SLAY series, is the lightest switch in this lineup, requiring just 45g of force to bottom out. Its sound profile leans towards the deeper end, providing a mellow yet refined typing experience that some users may prefer for quieter environments. Both switches have their unique attributes that cater to different preferences and styles; 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
38g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Sunset Gleam and the Gateron Type L utilize different materials in their top housings, which significantly affects their overall sound profiles. The Sunset Gleam employs a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its rigidity and translucence. This material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound that is crisp and resonant, making it particularly appealing for RGB lighting setups due to the enhanced light diffusion through the transparent housing. In contrast, Gateron Type L features a nylon top housing that produces a deeper, fuller sound due to the material's softer texture. Nylon absorbs sound more effectively than polycarbonate, resulting in a rounder and more muted auditory experience. This difference in the top housing materials leads to distinct sound characteristics for each switch when pressed.
Despite the variation in their top housings, both switches incorporate nylon for their bottom housings. This shared material results in a similar deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as both switches benefit from the sound-absorbing qualities of nylon. With both switches sorted at the bottom, users will experience a comparable bottoming-out sound and tactile feel when engaging with the keys. This consistency in the bottom housing material allows for a more unified experience in terms of bounce feedback and tactile response, even if the auditory experience differs due to the top housings.
In summary, the key to understanding the differing sound profiles of the HMX Sunset Gleam and Gateron Type L lies in their top housing materials. The polycarbonate top of the Sunset Gleam provides a bright and sharp sound experience, ideal for those who favor a crisp auditory feedback tied to RGB aesthetics. Meanwhile, Gateron’s Type L, with its nylon top, offers a softer and rounder sound profile, appealing to users who prefer a more muted experience. However, users can expect a consistent tactile response and deeper sound due to the shared nylon bottom housing, which stabilizes the overall experience across both switches despite their aesthetic and acoustic discrepancies.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, both demonstrate relatively light actuation forces, but differ slightly in their specifications. The Sunset Gleam requires 42 grams of force to actuate and bottoms out at 48 grams, while the Type L has an even lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This makes the Gateron Type L the lighter option overall, which is beneficial for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience during long work sessions or gaming marathons. The difference in bottom out forces also indicates that while both switches are light, the Sunset Gleam provides a slightly firmer feel when fully pressed down compared to the Type L. Those who appreciate a heavier push feel might prefer the Sunset Gleam, but both switches offer good performance for users who value a light touch. Overall, the Type L provides a softer keypress experience, making it ideal for prolonged use, whereas the Sunset Gleam presents a bit more resistance for those seeking a more substantial typing feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, there is a clear distinction: the Sunset Gleam has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Type L measures at 4 mm. This makes the Sunset Gleam the shorter option, providing a more responsive feel that is often favored by gamers seeking quicker actuation. On the other hand, the Type L with its 4 mm travel distance offers a deeper keypress that may appeal to users who prefer a more solid and pronounced typing experience. Thus, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Sunset Gleam would be the better choice, while the Type L caters to those who appreciate a more traditional, deeper actuation.
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 L 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
In terms of sound, the HMX Sunset Gleam switch produces a subtle top-out and a satisfying clack that gives it a distinctive auditory charm. This results in a sound profile that strikes a balance—it's neither overly loud nor muted, offering a pleasant acoustic feedback that can be engaging, especially for typists who appreciate a bit of auditory response. In contrast, the Gateron Type L features a sound signature that is neutral and subdued. Its deeper acoustics provide a gentle tone that is more refined, making it suitable for environments where discretion is key while still maintaining a sound that is pleasant to the user. Both switches cater to different preferences, but the Sunset Gleam offers a more pronounced clack while the Type L leans towards being quieter and more understated.
When considering the feel of these switches, the HMX Sunset Gleam switch offers an engaging tactile experience, characterized by a smooth keystroke facilitated by excellent factory lubrication. This smoothness contributes to an engaging typing experience, though specific descriptors of its feel are not provided. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L is described as feathery and easy-to-press, requiring only 45g of force to bottom out. The light actuation force is designed to reduce finger fatigue, making it an excellent choice for long typing sessions. Its effortless activation fosters a responsive and comfortable typing feel that is ideal for various tasks, whether gaming or professional duties.
In summary, both the HMX Sunset Gleam and Gateron Type L linear switches present unique sound and feel characteristics tailored to diverse user preferences. The Sunset Gleam appeals to those who enjoy a noticeable auditory feedback with a smooth keystroke, while the Type L focuses on a lighter touch and subdued sound, providing an easy typing experience suited for extended use. Depending on your specific needs, you will find that both switches can deliver satisfying results, whether you prioritize auditory engagement or light, effortless keypresses.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the HMX Sunset Gleam and the Gateron Type L linear switches, your decision ultimately revolves around your personal preferences regarding sound and feel. The Sunset Gleam, with its light 48-gram bottom-out force and satisfying clack sound profile, is an excellent choice if you seek an engaging tactile and auditory experience while typing or gaming. It excels in situations where you value feedback from your keystrokes, making it a delightful option for those who appreciate a bit of character in their typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle and subdued sound, along with an exceptionally light and feathery feel, the Gateron Type L with its 45-gram actuation force may be the better fit for you. This switch minimizes finger fatigue during long sessions, making it ideal for intense gaming marathons or extended work hours. In essence, if you lean toward a more lively experience, go for the Sunset Gleam; if you favor ease of use and understated characteristics, the Type L will serve you well.
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