HMX Sunset Gleam vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro
An in-depth look at the HMX Sunset Gleam and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the HMX Sunset Gleam and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro is a classic debate between linear and tactile preferences. The HMX Sunset Gleam, also referred to as the Duck Duck switch, is celebrated for its smooth, linear action, which minimizes resistance as you type. This switch features a carefully crafted blend of materials that not only ensures a subtle top-out but also produces a satisfying clack, enhanced by HMX's excellent factory lubrication. This makes it a great choice for gamers and typists who prefer a quiet, uninterrupted feel while immersed in their tasks. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro offers a medium level of tactility combined with a fairly light touch, making it an appealing "Goldilocks" option for those who want just the right amount of feedback without overwhelming sound. Its neutral sound signature allows for a comfortable typing experience that can cater to various environments, from quiet offices to bustling cafes. Both switches offer unique advantages depending on your typing style and preferences; 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
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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 spring
Housing materials
The HMX Sunset Gleam and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a similar sonic profile characterized by a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound. The use of polycarbonate, known for its stiffness, enhances the clarity and resonance of the keystrokes, resulting in a more pronounced auditory experience. This effect is particularly pronounced in switches designed to accommodate RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for effective illumination and visual appeal. Consequently, users of both keyboards can expect a comparable auditory experience when it comes to the sound produced from the release of the keys, a key characteristic that adds to the overall enjoyment of typing and gaming.
In contrast, the bottom housing of both switches differs in material, with the Sunset Gleam employing nylon and the Violet Gold Pro also utilizing nylon. This choice fosters a commonality in the sound profiles generated by both keyboards, as nylon is recognized for its ability to absorb sound, leading to a deeper and fuller typing experience. The softer nature of nylon enhances the overall sound, providing a more rounded and muted bottom-out sound compared to the sharper top-end sound generated by the polycarbonate housing above. Therefore, while both switches exhibit similarities in their top housing, the impact of the nylon bottom housing ensures that both keyboards deliver a rich auditory experience while typing.
While the Sunset Gleam and Violet Gold Pro share certain elements in their housing materials, the integration of polycarbonate at the top and nylon at the bottom allows for a complementary blend of sound characteristics. The upper polycarbonate maintains a clear and crisp sound during keystrokes, enhancing the brightness and clarity, while the nylon at the bottom softens the impact sound, creating a balanced auditory experience. Users interested in either switch can rely on this combination of materials to achieve a desirable typing experience, where the polycarbonate heightens the upper frequency response and the nylon enriches the lower frequencies, making both keyboards suitable for various typing preferences in terms of auditory feedback.
Weight
The comparison between the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch reveals distinct differences in actuation force. The Sunset Gleam has an actuation force of 42 grams, which is lighter compared to the Violet Gold Pro's actuation force of 45 grams, making the Sunset Gleam more suitable for users who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. However, the bottom out force for the Dareu Violet Gold Pro is unavailable, making it difficult to draw a direct comparison in that regard. The Sunset Gleam also features a bottom out force of 48 grams, indicating that it provides a noticeable resistance when fully pressed down, which some users may appreciate for a more substantial typing experience. Therefore, while the Sunset Gleam offers a lighter typing feel, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro is inherently heavier in terms of actuation force, potentially appealing to those who favor a stronger push.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, we find that the Sunset Gleam has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Violet Gold Pro measures slightly longer at 3.8 mm. This difference indicates that the Sunset Gleam, being the shorter of the two, may provide a more responsive typing experience, which can be particularly appealing to gamers looking for quicker actuation times. In contrast, the longer 3.8 mm travel of the Violet Gold Pro may appeal to those who enjoy a more traditional, hearty feel when pressing down on keys. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether one values speed and responsiveness or a more pronounced tactile sensation during use.
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 Dareu Violet Gold Pro has an MSRP of $7.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet Gold Pro for $4.76.
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
**Sound Comparison**
The HMX Sunset Gleam switch produces a satisfying clack accompanied by a subtle top-out, making it sound both pleasing and engaging while typing. This interesting acoustic profile is complemented by excellent factory lubrication, which helps to minimize any unwanted noise and enhances the overall sound experience. In contrast, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro has a neutral sound signature. Its moderate actuation force requirement yields a sound that is less pronounced but still appropriate for various environments, whether at home or in a professional setting. The balance in the Violet Gold Pro's sound can appeal to users who desire a less intrusive auditory feedback.
**Feel Comparison**
When it comes to feel, the HMX Sunset Gleam offers a smooth and unimpeded keystroke characteristic of linear switches. This makes it ideal for users who prefer uninterrupted typing, as there are no tactile bumps to interrupt the flow. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro is a tactile switch that delivers medium tactility with a stepped feel. This means that the switch provides a more nuanced feedback experience with a noticeable bump during actuation, which can help typists recognize when a keystroke has registered without needing to bottom out. This distinction may result in a different typing experience, favoring those who enjoy a tactile sensation over smoothness.
**Conclusion**
In evaluating the HMX Sunset Gleam and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro, it is clear that each switch caters to different typing preferences. The Sunset Gleam excels in sound, delivering a satisfying auditory experience combined with a smooth feel that caters to linear switch enthusiasts. Conversely, the Violet Gold Pro offers a neutral sound profile and a tactile feedback mechanism, making it a versatile choice for users looking for a balanced typing experience. Ultimately, both switches provide unique qualities that will appeal to different types of keyboard users, highlighting how sound and feel are critical components in the selection process of mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To summarize, when selecting between the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, you should consider your typing preferences and the type of experience you desire. If you're someone who enjoys a light switch with a smooth, linear feel that provides gentle feedback and a satisfying sound, then the Sunset Gleam is an excellent choice for you. It's particularly suitable for those who prioritize quiet, fluid key presses, making it ideal for both gaming and typing without disturbing others around you. On the other hand, if you prefer a balance in your tactile experience and appreciate a moderate bump during your keystrokes, the Violet Gold Pro is the way to go. Its neutral sound and stepped tactile feedback cater to users who might be looking for that "Goldilocks" feel—comfortable for typing across various tasks without being overly pronounced or distracting. Ultimately, your decision will hinge on whether you value a smooth and quiet experience with the Sunset Gleam or a more pronounced and tactile feel with the Violet Gold Pro.
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