HMX Deep Navy vs. KTT Mint
An in-depth look at the HMX Deep Navy and the KTT Mint switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Deep Navy and the KTT Mint both offer unique yet appealing characteristics for typing enthusiasts. The Deep Navy switch stands out with its full nylon construction, delivering a rich, sharp sound profile that enhances the auditory experience with every keystroke. Its silky smooth Ly stem ensures a seamless typing experience, making it an attractive choice for those who prioritize both acoustics and performance. Conversely, the KTT Mint switch is celebrated for its satisfyingly smooth linear feel, complemented by a long pole stem that creates a distinctive poppy thockiness with each press. This switch is designed for a light and fleeting typing experience, appealing to users who enjoy rapid and effortless key presses. Both switches cater to different preferences in feel and sound, making them worthy contenders depending on your typing style. 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
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The HMX Deep Navy and KTT Mint switches exhibit distinct characteristics in their top housing materials, leading to different auditory profiles when typing. The Deep Navy features a nylon top housing known for its relatively softer characteristics, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This plush acoustic quality is a result of nylon's ability to absorb sound waves effectively, thus creating a sound that is duller and more rounded. In contrast, the KTT Mint's top housing is made of polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic that facilitates a sharper and higher-pitched sound. This material is adept at producing a clearer and more resonant auditory experience, making the typing sounds emitted by the Mint switch tighter and more pronounced. The varying properties of these materials mean that users seeking a rich, muted sound may gravitate towards the Deep Navy, while those desiring clarity and crispness may prefer the Mint.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of both switches utilizes nylon, which serves to unify their acoustic profiles when typing. As both the Deep Navy and the Mint employ nylon for the bottom housing, the resulting bottom-out sound and typing feel are similar. This shared material leads to that characteristic deeper and fuller sound profile associated with nylon, as it absorbs sound efficiently. Consequently, the impact of the bottom housing is consistent between the two switches, providing a steady foundation that emphasizes a softer feel. Therefore, regardless of the differences in the top housing materials, both switches impart a similar auditory experience due to the commonality of nylon in their bottom housings.
The combined effects of the two different top housing materials and the matching nylon bottom housings play a crucial role in how each switch performs. While the top housing influences the sound produced during key release, the bottom housing dominates the sound and sensation at the bottom-out moment. This interplay means that while users of the KTT Mint may enjoy a more dynamic auditory punch during key presses, they will still experience the softer characteristics brought forth by nylon at the bottom stage of their typing. Conversely, Deep Navy users will appreciate the rounded nuance of their switches throughout. In this way, despite their differences, both switches can provide a compelling typing experience molded by the unique contributions of their housing materials.
Weight
The HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch offer distinct actuation and bottom out forces that cater to different typing preferences. The Deep Navy features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Mint has a slightly heavier actuation force at 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams. This means the Deep Navy switch allows for an easier keystroke initiation and a softer landing, making it ideal for those who value prolonged typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Mint switch provides a more substantial push feel, appealing to users who prefer a heavier switch for a more gratifying typing experience. As a result, individuals looking for a lighter switch would gravitate towards the HMX Deep Navy, while those desiring a bit more resistance should consider the KTT Mint. Overall, if users prefer lighter actuation with minimal force, the Deep Navy would be the better option, whereas the Mint aligns with those who appreciate a medium-light touch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, a notable difference arises. The HMX Deep Navy has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Mint features a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that users who favor a more responsive experience may prefer the shorter 3.6 mm travel of the Deep Navy, which can facilitate quicker keystrokes, especially beneficial for gaming scenarios. In contrast, the KTT Mint’s 4 mm travel may appeal to those who appreciate a more pronounced key press, offering a deeper and more substantial feel. Consequently, for users who enjoy rapid responsiveness, the Deep Navy would be the better choice, whereas those who desire a fuller typing experience might find the Mint to be more satisfying. Overall, the HMX Deep Navy is the shorter option, while the KTT Mint stands as the longer one.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Deep Navy has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Deep Navy for $2.79.
The KTT Mint comes in at $2.91 per 10 switches.
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 HMX Deep Navy switch is characterized by a rich and sharp sound profile that enhances the typing experience, creating a satisfying auditory feedback during use. The switch's full nylon construction contributes to this robust sound, likely making each keystroke feel substantial. In contrast, the KTT Mint linear switch produces a low-pitched and neutral sound that is more mellow and bass-heavy compared to both higher-pitched switches and the Deep Navy. This neutral quality ensures a versatile acoustic experience suitable for various environments, whether at home or in an office, allowing the Mint to appeal to both beginners and advanced users alike.
In terms of feel, the Deep Navy's properties are not explicitly described, leaving a gap in understanding how it might perform tactilely. Meanwhile, the Mint switch is noted for offering a mild and polished typing experience. The mild nature of this switch results in an approachable and gentle interaction, likely making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Additionally, the polished finish implies the switches have been refined to reduce friction, combining smoothly with the lightweight and fleeting feel that many users appreciate, almost like gliding from key to key.
Overall, while both the HMX Deep Navy and KTT Mint switches seem to cater to the linear switch preference with their emphasis on smooth keystrokes, they present different sound profiles and tactile feedback. The Deep Navy focuses on a rich auditory experience and potentially substantial feel, while the Mint emphasizes a lighter, more polished typing sensation paired with a mellow sound. Despite their differences, users can expect satisfaction from both options, depending on their personal preference for sound and feel characteristics amidst the mechanical keyboard landscape.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and acoustic desires. If you favor a lighter touch and a pronounced sound profile, the Deep Navy’s 45-gram bottom-out force and its rich, sharp sound can provide an immersive experience, especially if you enjoy the silky smoothness from the Ly stem. This switch is perfect for those who prefer a more tactile feedback while still enjoying effortless typing. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a switch that offers a balanced typing experience, the KTT Mint, with its medium-light force of 53 grams and low-pitched, neutral sound, is an excellent choice. It’s designed to cater to a wider audience, making it great for both casual typing and professional environments with its mild and polished feel. In summary, select the Deep Navy for its lighter actuation and distinct acoustic signature, while opting for the KTT Mint if you appreciate a slightly firmer touch alongside a well-rounded sound profile that works effectively in various settings.
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