Huano Acacia vs. KTT Mint

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Huano Acacia and the KTT Mint offer two distinct yet appealing linear typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Acacia is renowned for its medium-light weight, generous factory lubrication, and minimal stem wobble, all of which contribute to a consistently pleasant typing experience right out of the box. Its balance of smoothness and responsiveness makes it an excellent choice for those seeking both comfort and performance. On the other hand, the KTT Mint stands out with its satisfyingly smooth action and long pole stem, delivering a unique poppy thockiness that makes each keystroke feel particularly rewarding. Its light and fleeting typing feel offers a swift and agile response, perfect for users who value speed and precision. Both switches present compelling reasons to choose them based 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

Huano Acacia Linear

KTT Mint Linear

$3.39 per 10

$2.91 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Acacia and the KTT Mint, it is evident that both switches utilize similar components that contribute significantly to their overall sound profiles and performance characteristics. Both the Acacia and Mint share a polycarbonate top housing, which is recognized for producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances sound clarity and resonance, making it an ideal material for enthusiasts looking for a more pronounced auditory response during typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for impressive RGB lighting effects, which enriches the aesthetic appeal of both switches. This similarity in housing materials ensures that users can expect a comparable auditory experience when using either switch.

Contrasting the top housing, the bottom housing of the Huano Acacia and the KTT Mint is comprised of nylon in both cases. Nylon is celebrated for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile, largely due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. This absorption results in a duller and rounder sound, particularly noticeable when bottoming out the key during typing. Therefore, regardless of the top housing's qualities, the nylon bottom housing contributes a warm and rich tonal quality that enhances the overall typing experience. As both switches utilize identical materials for their bottom housings, they are likely to deliver similar sound characteristics during use.

In considering how these materials interact, it's important to note that the unique effects of the top and bottom housings come together to define the overall sound signature of each switch. The polycarbonate top housing shines in delivering pronounced sound clarity upon release, while the nylon bottom housing provides a softer response when the key is pressed down. Since both the Acacia and Mint feature the same material composition for both housings, users can expect a harmonized auditory experience across both switches. Ultimately, this similarity in housing materials—polycarbonate on top for clear sounds and nylon on the bottom for soft sounds—results in a cohesive and satisfying typing experience whether one opts for the Huano Acacia or the KTT Mint.

Weight

The Huano Acacia linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch display some similarities in their actuation forces, both requiring 45 grams to trigger a keystroke, which contributes to a medium-light typing experience ideal for users who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. However, when it comes to bottom out forces, the Acacia has a slightly higher 55 grams, compared to the Mint's 53 grams. This difference indicates that the Acacia switch provides a marginally heavier feel when fully pressed down, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Overall, both switches have the same actuation force, providing similar performance in terms of keystrokes, while the Mint is the lighter option regarding bottom out force.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Acacia linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, it is clear that the Acacia, with its travel distance of 3.5 mm, is shorter than the Mint, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. This difference in travel distance may influence your overall typing and gaming experience; the Acacia provides a quicker response time, making it ideal for gamers who favor fast actuation. On the other hand, the Mint's longer travel distance of 4 mm may cater to those who prefer a more satisfying depth in their keystrokes, often feeling more substantial as you press down. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches depends on personal preference, as the Acacia offers a more responsive feel while the Mint offers a greater sense of depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Huano Acacia linear switch is notably quiet, but the exact tonal quality is not specified, making it somewhat of a mystery compared to the KTT Mint. The Mint switch is characterized by a low-pitched sound that has a bass-heavy and mellow quality along with a neutral profile. This means that while both switches are designed to produce minimal sound, the Mint offers a more defined auditory experience with its warm thockiness, which can create a satisfying feedback loop, especially during extended typing sessions. Ultimately, if sound is a primary factor for your keyboard experience, the Mint may stand out due to its richer tonal depth.

Turning to the feel of each switch, the Acacia switch is known for its medium-light weight and smooth operation owing to generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble, which contributes to a pleasant and effortless typing experience. In comparison, the KTT Mint provides a mild typing experience complemented by a polished feel, thanks to its long pole stem that leads to reduced friction and smooth key travel. This elevated smoothness enhances the typing response, while the light and fleeting nature of the Mint's feel means it's approachable for all users, making it easy to transition between for novice and experienced typists alike. While both switches promote a smooth typing experience, the Acacia focuses on stability, while the Mint emphasizes a speedy, fluid feel.

In conclusion, both the Huano Acacia and KTT Mint linear switches offer unique yet appealing qualities for a satisfying typing experience. The Acacia excels in providing a quiet, smooth performance with a stable feel, making it conducive for office environments where low noise is essential. The KTT Mint, on the other hand, adds a richer sound profile alongside a polished and mild feel, which offers a more dynamic typing experience. Ultimately, both switches are well-crafted and can deliver a pleasurable feel, and users can choose based on their preference for sound and tactile response. If opting for either switch, you're likely to enjoy a superior typing experience that aligns closely with your needs.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Huano Acacia linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch largely depends on your typing preferences and the experience you seek. If you prioritize a smooth and pleasant typing experience straight out of the box, the Acacia is a fantastic option. Its medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams paired with generous factory lubrication allows for a satisfying feel that many find comfortable, making it perfect for extended typing sessions or general use, whether for work or play. On the other hand, if you're looking for a more unique tactile sensation with a satisfying pop and that characteristic "thock" sound, the KTT Mint might be the ideal pick for you. Its slightly lower bottom out force of 53 grams and its long pole stem enhance the auditory experience while providing a fleeting, light feel that can be particularly enjoyable for fast typists or gamers looking for quick keystrokes. Ultimately, your decision boils down to whether you prefer the consistency of the Acacia or the distinct auditory feedback of the Mint—each offering a different take on what a linear switch can deliver in terms of both sound and feel.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Acacia Linear

$3.39 per 10

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KTT Mint Linear

$2.91 per 10

Learn more