KTT Cream Yellow vs. HMX Gravel
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the HMX Gravel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Cream Yellow and HMX Gravel present two compelling options for enthusiasts seeking a linear switch. The Cream Yellow is renowned for its distinctively clacky sound, featuring a shortened bottom-out distance and a long-pole stem that not only enhances audio feedback but also delivers a uniquely bouncy typing feel, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more tactile experience. In contrast, the HMX Gravel excels in providing exceptional smoothness and a refined typing feel, characterized by a medium-light actuation force that allows for a responsive and effortless typing experience. While the Cream Yellow emphasizes auditory feedback and a playful bounce, the Gravel offers a refined and seamless interaction, perfect for those prioritizing sensitivity and fluidity in their keystrokes. 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Cream Yellow and the HMX Gravel switches both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in notable similarities in their sound profiles. This plastic material is known for its rigidity, allowing for a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound upon keypresses. As both switches feature clear polycarbonate tops, users can expect an enhanced resonance when utilizing RGB lighting, thanks to the material's translucency. This similarity means that both switches deliver an aesthetically pleasing appearance while providing a clear articulation of sound, making them popular choices for those who enjoy visually stunning setups accompanied by pronounced acoustic feedback.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of both switches is constructed from nylon, which introduces a stark contrast to their tops. Nylon is celebrated for its softer makeup and sound absorption properties, resulting in a deeper, fuller sound profile during typing. This characteristic complements the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate top, leading to a balanced acoustic experience that maximizes the distinctive qualities of each material. When users actuate either switch, they will experience the rich tones provided by the nylon bottom housing, contrasting directly with the clarity of the polycarbonate top. Therefore, the combination of these materials leads to a unique auditory signature that enhances the user's overall typing experience.
Ultimately, while the KTT Cream Yellow and HMX Gravel switches share similarities in their construction with respect to the materials used in their top and bottom housings, they also showcase complementary features that enhance their usability. The polycarbonate tops provide a bright, clear response, while the nylon bottoms deliver warmth and depth to the sound. The effective partnership of these materials ensures that users will benefit from a well-rounded performance with each keystroke, drawing on the strengths of both types of plastic—crisp clarity from polycarbonate above and a fuller richness from nylon below. Thus, whether opting for one switch over the other, users can anticipate a quality sound experience that is grounded in the thoughtful design of these housing materials.
Weight
The KTT Cream Yellow and HMX Gravel linear switches differ notably in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Cream Yellow switch features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, categorizing it as a medium force switch; this provides a balanced typing experience that some users may find substantial yet manageable for long durations. Conversely, the HMX Gravel switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it easier to press and ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. Thus, while the Cream Yellow is the heavier option of the two, offering a more tactile push feel, the Gravel's lighter force caters to those who prefer a softer touch. The differences in force specifications suggest that typists who favor a lighter switch for comfort may lean toward the HMX Gravel, while those who appreciate a more pronounced keystroke should consider the KTT Cream Yellow.
Travel distance
The KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the HMX Gravel linear switch both feature an identical travel distance of 3.5 mm, meaning that users can expect the same level of key press depth when using either switch. This similarity in travel distance ensures that both switches will provide comparable tactile feedback and responsiveness, making them equally suitable for users who prefer a consistent and uniform typing experience. With no variation in this particular aspect, those choosing between the two can anticipate similar results in terms of keystroke feel and performance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Cream Yellow has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cream Yellow for $2.55.
The HMX Gravel has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gravel for $2.99.
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 comparing the sound characteristics of the KTT Cream Yellow and HMX Gravel linear switches, the Cream Yellow is distinctly known for its clacky audio profile. This switch produces a sharp, snappy, and crisp sound with a percussive quality due to its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem, which enhances the resonant feedback during typing. In contrast, the sound characteristics of the Gravel switch are not documented, leaving us without definitive information on its auditory experience. However, it is important to recognize that sound can vary based on the specific keyboard build and keycap choice, which means both switches may deliver different acoustic results in different environments.
When it comes to the feel of each switch, the KTT Cream Yellow is characterized by its bouncy sensation, thanks to its lengthened spring and design that offers a lively typing experience with elastic feedback. This type of feel can engage users who appreciate a dynamic and responsive touch while typing. The HMX Gravel switch, while praised for its smoothness and refined touch, does not provide specific descriptions concerning its unique tactile feedback. The Gravel features a medium-light actuation force that leans towards the lighter side, suggesting it may offer a different, effortless typing experience that some users may prefer over the more energetic feel of the Cream Yellow.
In conclusion, the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch stands out for its clacky sound and bouncy feel, making it an engaging choice for individuals who enjoy auditory feedback and a lively typing experience. The HMX Gravel, on the other hand, is highlighted for its exceptional smoothness and lighter actuation, presenting an effortless experience, though its sound profile and specific feel remain less defined. While users may find similarities in responsiveness among switches, the Cream Yellow’s unique auditory and tactile qualities set it apart from the Gravel, potentially catering to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard landscape.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the HMX Gravel linear switch, your preferences and typing style will play a critical role. If you enjoy a typing experience that is not only tactile but also delivers a distinctively clacky sound, the Cream Yellow is an excellent choice. With its medium bottom-out force of 58 grams, it provides a bouncy, lively feel and crisp audio feedback that can enhance your overall satisfaction while typing. This switch is great for those who appreciate a more engaging and responsive interaction when they type or game, making it perfect for individuals who enjoy visceral feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and lighter typing experience, the HMX Gravel switch, with its 50-gram bottom-out force, would likely be more appealing. Its refined and effortless feel allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue, catering well to those who value comfort and precision without the additional auditory stimulation. Ultimately, your choice should reflect not just your typing habits but also the environment in which you'll be using it—whether you want the spirited feedback of the Cream Yellow or the serene smoothness of the Gravel.
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