HMX Sunset Gleam vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the HMX Sunset Gleam and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Sunset Gleam and Gateron Zero Degree 0° both represent excellent choices for linear switch enthusiasts, yet they offer distinct experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The HMX Sunset Gleam, affectionately known as the Duck Duck switch, is celebrated for its harmonious blend of materials which provide a gentle top-out and a satisfying clack sound that many users find pleasant. Its renowned factory lube enhances the experience further, making it a top contender for those who seek a tactile yet smooth typing experience. On the other hand, Gateron's Zero Degree 0° linear switch takes a different approach by prioritizing silent operation; its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure not only ensure a whisper-quiet typing experience but also add an elastic feel that absorbs sound and enhances stability. Both options cater to linear switch lovers, yet one emphasizes auditory pleasure while the other focuses on silence and smoothness. 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
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
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
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
The HMX Sunset Gleam and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° exhibit a striking similarity in their top housing materials, as both utilize polycarbonate, a type of plastic known for its ability to enhance sound clarity. The polycarbonate construction in both switches contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, allowing users to experience a clear and resonant auditory feedback when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an excellent choice for those who wish to utilize RGB lighting, as it allows the glow of the lights to shine through unimpeded. This commonality in material choice suggests that users can expect similarly impressive sound characteristics when using either switch.
However, when comparing the bottom housings, we see a contrasting choice of materials. The Sunset Gleam employs nylon for its bottom housing, a classic material that is softer compared to the stiffer polycarbonate. This design results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as the nylon absorbs sound better than harder plastics like polycarbonate. Consequently, the sound produced upon bottoming out is significantly influenced by the nylon material, giving it a distinct roundness and warmth in comparison to the sharper sound of the top housing. Conversely, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° also uses nylon for its bottom housing, mirroring the Sunset Gleam's approach and thereby ensuring that its sound profile remains similarly deep and velvety when typing.
The end result for both switches is a balanced audio experience shaped by their material compositions. With polycarbonate in the top housing contributing to a bright and resonant sound, and nylon in the bottom housing providing a full-bodied lower frequency response, users of both the HMX Sunset Gleam and Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches can expect a cohesive typing experience. The shared housing materials in the top and bottom serve to reinforce a consistent sound signature, while the different characteristics of each material create a nuanced auditory signature to enjoy while typing. This blend of materials ultimately results in distinctive yet compatible typing experiences across both switches.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch to the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, we notice some differences in their actuation force. The Sunset Gleam has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Zero Degree’s 45 grams, making the Sunset Gleam potentially more suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended use or gaming sessions. However, the actuation force of the Zero Degree is slightly heavier, catering to those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches have unknown bottom out forces, but we do know that the Sunset Gleam has a bottom out force of 48 grams. This means that while the Sunset Gleam provides a lighter overall experience, the Zero Degree's lack of a specified bottom out force leaves us with uncertainty about how its key press will feel when fully engaged. Thus, if users are looking for lighter switches, the HMX Sunset Gleam is the preferable option, while those who appreciate a heavier feel may lean toward the Gateron Zero Degree, albeit with less clarity regarding its bottom out sensation.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, the Sunset Gleam features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Zero Degree 0° has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Sunset Gleam is the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers or users who prefer a quicker response time. In contrast, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° offers a more substantial depth, making it potentially more satisfying for those who favor a fuller key press experience. Hence, the choice between these switches ultimately depends on personal preference: if you favor responsiveness and a quicker actuation, the Sunset Gleam is the optimal pick, whereas the Zero Degree may be preferable for those who enjoy a deeper keystroke.
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 Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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 is noted for its subtle top-out and satisfying clack, providing a pleasing auditory feedback that typists often appreciate for a more engaging typing experience. This engaging sound is the result of careful material choice and excellent factory lubrication, enhancing the overall acoustic profile. Conversely, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch focuses on silent operation through its innovative self-padding design, which significantly dampens sound. As a result, while the Sunset Gleam provides a more pronounced sound signature, the Zero Degree 0° emphasizes quietness, catering to those who prefer a more discreet typing environment.
When it comes to feel, the Sunset Gleam switch is characterized by a smooth actuation typical of linear switches, enhanced by the thoughtful use of materials that make the switch responsive and pleasing to use. The factory lube further adds to its luxurious feel, contributing to an overall satisfying experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° prioritizes a soft, elastic feel, made possible by its dual-rail structure, which not only smooths out the keystrokes but also adds a level of stability. This makes for a unique typing experience that absorbs force and provides a feeling of cushion during use.
In summary, while both the HMX Sunset Gleam and Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switches share the fundamental qualities of smooth linearity, their sound and feel diverge significantly. The Sunset Gleam offers a more traditional acoustic feedback with a satisfying clack, while the Zero Degree 0° is designed for those who prioritize a silent, cushioned touch. Ultimately, your choice between these two will depend on your personal preferences regarding sound and typing experience, providing satisfactory yet distinct results depending on your needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, you should consider your personal typing preferences and environment. If you favor a lightweight key press that provides a subtle tactile feel and a pleasant auditory feedback while typing, the Sunset Gleam is an excellent choice. Its 48-gram bottom-out force makes it suitable for extended typing sessions without fatigue, and the factory lubing adds to the overall smoothness and quiet "clack" that some users appreciate. On the other hand, if your priority is achieving a silent typing experience, perhaps in a shared workspace or during late-night gaming sessions, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° is the way to go. Its innovative self-padding design greatly reduces noise levels while offering a remarkably smooth and stable keypress. So, whether you lean towards the satisfying sound and feel of the Sunset Gleam or the whisper-quiet operation of the Zero Degree 0°, your choice will ultimately depend on what aspects of a switch matter most to you.
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