Everglide Tourmaline Blue vs. HMX Twilight
An in-depth look at the Everglide Tourmaline Blue and the HMX Twilight switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue and the HMX Twilight both present excellent options for users who enjoy linear switches. The Tourmaline Blue is celebrated for its deep, thocky sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience, while its lengthened single-stage spring gives it a bouncy feel that many find pleasurable and accessible, making it an ideal choice for typists and gamers alike seeking a buttery and easy-to-press key experience. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight stands out with its extended 3.85mm travel distance, delivering a quieter typing sound yet preserving that satisfying clacky character that fans of HMX switches appreciate. Both switches offer unique benefits tailored to different preferences: the Tourmaline Blue for those who crave a more engaging auditory feedback and the Twilight for those who prioritize a subtle and muted atmosphere. 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
59g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.85 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Tourmaline Blue and the HMX Twilight switches, it is evident that the two utilize distinct materials for both their top and bottom housings, leading to different sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Tourmaline Blue employs polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This stiffness in the polycarbonate allows for a clearer and more resonant output, enhancing the auditory experience, particularly when complemented by RGB lighting due to its translucency. Conversely, the HMX Twilight uses nylon in its top and bottom housings, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound. The softness of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder auditory signature that provides a different tactile sensation during typing.
The contrast between the two materials not only affects the sound but also impacts the overall feel when typing. In the case of the Tourmaline Blue, the consistent use of polycarbonate amplifies the immediate crispness of each keystroke, which can be preferred by users looking for a snappy and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight benefits from the muted qualities of nylon, offering a softer bottom-out feel. This can be particularly appealing to users who favor a more subdued and cushioned typing experience. In essence, the choice of material between these two switches delineates a path between an auditory clarity afforded by polycarbonate and the sound-dampening characteristics of nylon.
Ultimately, while the Tourmaline Blue and HMX Twilight differ significantly in their housing materials, they symbolize two distinct design philosophies within the realm of mechanical switches. Users can expect a sharper, more resonant experience with the Tourmaline Blue owing to its polycarbonate composition, which is ideal for those who enjoy a brighter sound and a more responsive action. In contrast, the HMX Twilight offers a more rounded and warmer sound profile due to its nylon construction, catering to those who prefer a softer touch and a more muted auditory feedback. Despite their differences, both switches can deliver satisfaction tailored to user needs, reinforcing the notion that sound profiles and tactile sensations can be intricately manipulated through the choice of housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, there is a notable difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Tourmaline Blue features a heavier actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy option for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Twilight is considerably lighter, with an actuation force of only 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, catering to those who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing or gaming sessions. The difference in these forces suggests that the Twilight switch will be easier to actuate and press down fully, resulting in a more effortless experience. Consequently, users who favor a lighter switch for prolonged use would find the HMX Twilight more suitable, while those seeking a stronger push feel may gravitate towards the Tourmaline Blue. Overall, if one desires a switch that offers a heavier resistance and a more tactile engagement, the Tourmaline Blue would be the better choice.
Travel distance
The Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Twilight linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.85 mm. This means that the Tourmaline Blue offers a more traditional feel with its deeper press, which may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial response when typing or gaming. Conversely, the Twilight, with its shorter travel distance, is designed for quicker actuation, making it potentially more suitable for gamers seeking faster response times. Ultimately, if you prefer a hearty depth with your keystrokes, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue would be the better choice, while the HMX Twilight is ideal for those favoring a snappier feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Tourmaline Blue has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Tourmaline Blue for $3.89.
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
When it comes to sound, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switch stands out with its deep, thocky sound profile, which contributes to a satisfying auditory experience while typing. This switch combines a moderate actuation force requirement with a sound character that feels at home in both casual and professional settings. In contrast, the HMX Twilight linear switch, while designed to be quiet, features an extended 3.85mm travel distance, perhaps resulting in a slightly muted sound but still retaining some of the clacky characteristics associated with HMX switches. Overall, users can expect the Tourmaline Blue to deliver a more pronounced auditory feedback, while the Twilight is likely to offer a softer sound, making each switch suitable for different environments depending on personal preference.
The feel of the Tourmaline Blue is characterized by its buttery smoothness, ensuring a fluid keystroke experience that makes typing effortless. With an easy-to-press actuation, the switch requires minimal force, significantly reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Described as mild, the overall sensation is approachable and balanced, appealing to newcomers while maintaining comfort for seasoned typists. The HMX Twilight, on the other hand, lacks specific descriptors regarding its tactile feel, which leaves room for uncertainty; thus, it is difficult to directly compare the feel of the Twilight to the comforting and engaging experience offered by the Tourmaline Blue.
In conclusion, both the Everglide Tourmaline Blue and the HMX Twilight linear switches present unique qualities catered to various typing preferences. The Tourmaline Blue excels in delivering a satisfying sound and a buttery typing feel that is user-friendly and enjoyable. Meanwhile, the Twilight offers a quieter experience with an extended travel distance, though its tactile feedback remains unspecified. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on the user's preference for sound and feel, ensuring that either option will yield a quality typing experience tailored to individual needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Everglide Tourmaline Blue and the HMX Twilight linear switches, consider your preferences regarding force, sound, and overall typing experience. If you enjoy a heavier typing experience that delivers a deep and thocky sound profile, the Tourmaline Blue is your go-to option. The 67-gram bottom-out force provides a satisfying tactile feedback that's ideal for typists who appreciate a bouncy keystroke and a buttery feel. It is also suitable if you want a versatile switch for both home and professional settings, as its neutral sound complements a wide range of environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter and quieter switch, the HMX Twilight, with its 50-gram bottom-out force and extended travel distance, might be more to your liking. This switch offers an effortless typing experience that can minimize fatigue during long sessions, making it perfect for those who prioritize comfort and ease of use. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your personal typing habits and the ambiance of your workspace, allowing you to fully enjoy the unique sensations that each switch provides.
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