Jwick Taro vs. HMX Twilight
An in-depth look at the Jwick Taro and the HMX Twilight switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between tactile and linear options, such as the Jwick Taro and the HMX Twilight. The Taro, with its neutral, buttery, and stepped tactile design, offers a delightful typing experience characterized by a snappy, medium-level tactility and crisp, acute clacks. This makes it an excellent choice for users who appreciate feedback with each keystroke, ideal for both typing and gaming scenarios. In contrast, the HMX Twilight linear switch features an extended 3.85mm travel distance that allows for a smoother keypress and a slightly quieter sound, while still embodying the signature clacky characteristics of HMX switches. This switch appeals to those who prefer an uninterrupted typing flow, making it perfect for those who value speed and seamlessness in their keyboard interactions. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.85 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Jwick Taro and the HMX Twilight showcase distinct materials for their top housings, resulting in notable differences in sound profiles and playing experiences. The Taro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound that is both clear and resonant. This stiffer plastic allows the switch to emit crisp auditory feedback, making it particularly appealing for users who enjoy the bright sounds associated with gaming or fast typing. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate enhances the aesthetic appeal when utilizing RGB lighting, as the colors can shine through vividly, creating a visually attractive keyboard setup.
In contrast, the Twilight opts for a nylon top housing, a material recognized for its softer characteristics. This choice results in a deeper, fuller sound profile that absorbs more noise during operation, yielding a duller and rounder auditory response compared to the Taro's polycarbonate. The softer nature of the nylon diminishes the sharper tones, making it a preferable option for users who value a more subdued and pleasant typing experience. Consequently, the Twilight's sound profile tends to be more mellow, catering to individuals who prioritize acoustic comfort during prolonged usage instead of the more pronounced feedback favored by players and typists who prefer the Taro.
Both switches share a commonality in their bottom housings, as both the Jwick Taro and HMX Twilight utilize nylon for this part. This means that the deeper and fuller sound profile characteristic of nylon is consistent between the two switches, particularly upon bottoming out. While the top housings influence the sound released upon key release, the similar nylon material for the bottom housing means that users will experience a comparable sound and feel when pressing down on either switch. Ultimately, the combination of properties from both materials in the respective switches will produce unique auditory results that cater to different preferences: the Taro’s crisp clarity melds with the Twilight’s plush warmth, allowing users to select a switch that best complements their typing style and experience.
Weight
When comparing the Jwick Taro tactile switch to the HMX Twilight linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Taro switch lacks a specified actuation force, but it has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which classifies it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the Twilight switch features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Twilight switch is generally easier to press and more suitable for prolonged typing sessions, making it a better option for those who prefer a lighter feel. In terms of bottom out force, the Taro's considerably heavier 67 grams contrasts with the Twilight's lighter 50 grams, indicating that more effort is needed to fully engage the Taro switch. Overall, individuals seeking a heavier push feel may gravitate towards the Taro switch, while those who prioritize a more effortless typing experience should opt for the Twilight.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Jwick Taro tactile switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, we find that the Taro has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Twilight measures slightly longer at 3.85 mm. This makes the Taro the shorter option, catering to those who prefer a more responsive feel typical of gamers who benefit from quicker key presses. Conversely, the Twilight’s longer travel distance might appeal to users who enjoy a more pronounced tactile response and a deeper press. While both switches fall within the modern range of travel distances, the Taro offers a more immediate interaction, whereas the Twilight provides a more substantial depth, ultimately aligning with different user preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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
The sound profile of the Jwick Taro tactile switch is characterized by acute and crisp clacks, providing a distinctly engaging auditory feedback with each keystroke. This makes it suitable for a variety of settings, whether at home or in a professional environment, appealing to both beginners and experienced typists alike. In comparison, the HMX Twilight linear switch has a slightly quieter sound, attributed to its extended 3.85mm travel distance. While it retains some of the signature clacky characteristics typical of HMX switches, the overall auditory experience may be more subdued, appealing to those who prefer a less intrusive typing sound.
When it comes to feel, the Taro sets itself apart with its blend of buttery smoothness and stepped tactile feedback. This means that users can anticipate a fluid keystroke combined with a noticeable tactile bump that feels like it has two distinct stages. This creates a balanced typing experience that can enhance precision and comfort. The HMX Twilight, being a linear switch, does not share this tactile quality, focusing instead on a smooth and direct keystroke without any tactile bump or resistance, which can be preferred by those seeking a more uninterrupted typing experience.
In summary, the Jwick Taro offers a tactile experience with crisp sounds and a comfortable, engaging feel, making it a great choice for typists who appreciate feedback with their keystrokes. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight provides a quieter and smooth linear alternative, ideal for users looking for a seamless typing experience without the distraction of tactility. Depending on your preferences for sound and feedback, both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different typing styles and environments.
Conclusion
In summary, your choice between the Jwick Taro tactile switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you appreciate a tactile feel with a snappy response but enjoy a moderate sound profile, the Taro is an excellent choice. Its medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams and buttery yet stepped feel provide a comfortable typing experience that caters to both casual and more intensive typing scenarios, making it a great option for office use or home typing sessions where you want feedback with a satisfying clack. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, quieter typing experience with a lighter touch, the HMX Twilight linear switch might be more suited to your needs. With a bottom out force of only 50 grams and an extended travel distance of 3.85mm, this switch allows for fluid keystrokes that can enhance your gaming performance or fast-paced typing tasks without the distraction of a pronounced sound. Ultimately, aligning your choice with how you plan to use your mechanical keyboard will help you make the best decision for your typing experience.
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