HMX Twilight vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the HMX Twilight and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preference, and two compelling options that cater to different typing experiences are the HMX Twilight and Gateron Zero Degree 0°. The HMX Twilight, characterized by its extended 3.85mm travel distance, provides a unique blend of subtlety and responsiveness, resulting in a slightly quieter typing experience while still delivering the signature clacky feedback that HMX enthusiasts cherish. In contrast, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° is designed for those who prioritize a serene typing environment; its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure create an incredibly smooth and stable keypress, offering a soft, elastic feel that effectively absorbs sound and minimizes noise. While the Twilight may appeal to users seeking a more tactile, expressive typing experience, the Zero Degree 0° is perfect for those who desire tranquility in their workspace. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.85 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
The HMX Twilight and Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches exhibit distinct differences in their top housing materials, which significantly affects their acoustic characteristics. The Twilight features a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition. This softness allows nylon to absorb sound waves more efficiently than harder plastics, thereby resulting in a rounder, mellower auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the Zero Degree 0° employs a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. Being a stiffer plastic, polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the switch sound, thus giving it a more pronounced auditory feedback that is appealing to users who prefer a crisp typing sound.
Meanwhile, both switches share a commonality in their bottom housing, as both the Twilight and the Zero Degree 0° utilize nylon. This results in a consistency of sound characteristics at the bottom end of key presses, where the nylon material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile regardless of the variances in the top housing. This similarity means that while the top housing introduces distinct sonic qualities, both switches can still offer a rounder and softer sound at the bottom-out stage, providing users with a muted auditory feedback that aligns with the properties of nylon.
Ultimately, the overall sound experience when typing on these switches will be a blend of the unique contributions from both the top and bottom housings. While the top housing profoundly influences the sound when releasing a key—where the polycarbonate of the Zero Degree 0° showcases its clarity and sharpness—the nylon bottoms anchor the switches with a consistent, fuller sound at the bottom. Therefore, users can expect a unique symphony of sounds that reflects both the strengths and weaknesses of the materials used. In instances where the switch’s housing compositions differ, the interplay of the materials shapes the overall typing experience, leading to different but complementary auditory results.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Twilight linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, the actuation forces reveal a nuanced difference. The Twilight switch features a lightweight actuation force of 42 grams, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions, as it allows for easier key presses. In contrast, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial feel while typing. Notably, the bottom out force for the Twilight switch is 50 grams, providing a definitive tactile response when the key is fully pressed, whereas the bottom out force for the Zero Degree remains unknown. This missing information limits a complete comparison of the two switches' mechanics. Overall, the HMX Twilight is the lighter option, catering to those who prioritize ease of use, while the Gateron Zero Degree offers a heavier actuation that may satisfy users seeking a firmer typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Twilight linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, there is a notable difference. The HMX Twilight features a travel distance of 3.85 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Twilight the longer option, which might appeal to users who prefer a more pronounced keystroke feel, providing a greater depth and tactile experience. Conversely, the shorter distance of the Gateron Zero Degree 0° may cater to gamers and those seeking faster response times, as it allows for quicker actuation. Overall, the choice between these switches hinges on personal preference: if one values a deeper press, the Twilight is the better choice, whereas those who favor responsiveness may opt for the Gateron.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
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 Twilight linear switch offers a slightly quieter typing experience thanks to its extended 3.85mm travel distance, which attenuates the noise while maintaining the signature clacky characteristics typical of HMX switches. This makes it an interesting choice for users who appreciate a more subdued auditory feedback without losing that satisfying sound altogether. In contrast, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch revolutionizes silent typing with its self-padding design and dual-rail structure. This design not only enhances smoothness and stability but significantly absorbs sound, resulting in an exceptionally quiet operation. Both switches can produce different acoustic profiles based on the board and keycaps used, but the Twilight leans toward a muted clack, while the Zero Degree 0° distinctly focuses on silent performance.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Twilight is characterized by its smooth actuation and a satisfying tactile response, making it enjoyable for both typing and gaming. The extended travel distance may slightly alter your usual touch experience, providing a unique sensation as you press through the full travel. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is celebrated for its soft, elastic feel, which further enhances the smoothness during key presses. This elasticity helps create a more cushioned typing experience, with minimal resistance and a remarkable stability that many users appreciate, especially during extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. While both switches are linear, their differentiate in the overall tactile sensation, where Twilight may provide a bit more character through its travel while Zero Degree focuses on pure smoothness.
In conclusion, the HMX Twilight and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switches cater to different preferences within the linear switch category, particularly when it comes to sound and feel. Those who prefer a slightly clacky yet quieter experience may gravitate towards the Twilight, while users seeking an ultra-smooth and silent experience will likely favor the Zero Degree 0°. Ultimately, regardless of choice, both switches excel in their own respective niches, ensuring that users can find a satisfying typing experience tailored to their needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Twilight linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a switch with a light actuation force and enjoy a distinct yet quieter clacky sound alongside a longer travel distance, the Twilight may be the right fit for you. Its 50-gram bottom-out force gives it a responsive feel, making it suitable for fast typing or gaming where you want to feel that engaging feedback without excessive effort. On the other hand, if silent operation and a smooth, soft typing experience are your priorities, then the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch is an excellent choice. Its self-padding design mitigates noise significantly, creating an environment conducive to focused work or late-night gaming marathons without disturbing others. Ultimately, your decision should align with what you seek in terms of sound and feel; the Twilight for a bit of character and response, or the Zero Degree 0° for a serene and ultra-smooth experience.
Mentioned in this article
