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HMX Deep Navy vs. KTT MoonRosa

An in-depth look at the HMX Deep Navy and the KTT MoonRosa switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can greatly influence your typing experience, and two popular linear options are the HMX Deep Navy and the KTT MoonRosa. The Deep Navy switch is renowned for its rich, sharp sound profile and silky smooth keystrokes, thanks to its full nylon construction and Ly stem design. These features make it an appealing choice for users who appreciate pronounced acoustics alongside a seamless typing feel. On the other hand, the MoonRosa switch, crafted from all-POM materials, promises a buttery smooth typing experience with its mild, low-pitched, and easy-to-press characteristics, catering to those who favor a more subtle sound signature. While both switches offer excellent linear performance, they cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your typing needs.

By the numbers

Technical specifications

Actuation force

40g

Actuation force

37g

Bottom-out force

45g

Bottom-out force

45g

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Pre-travel

1.80 mm

Total travel

3.60 mm

Total travel

3.50 mm

Factory lubed

Yes

Factory lubed

Yes

Stem construction

Standard

Stem construction

Partial box

Stem material

Ly

Stem material

POM

Top housing material

Nylon

Top housing material

POM

Bottom housing material

Nylon

Bottom housing material

POM

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Spring

20mm single-stage spring

Spring

22mm spring

Housing materials

The HMX Deep Navy and KTT MoonRosa switches each incorporate distinct housing materials that contribute to their unique sound profiles. The Deep Navy utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings. Nylon, known for its softer composition, effectively absorbs sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience. This implies that the typing sounds produced by the Deep Navy switches exhibit a duller and rounder quality, fostering an immersive experience. In contrast, the MoonRosa switches are constructed with POM (Polyoxymethylene) for both the top and bottom housings. POM is recognized for producing a unique sound that is appreciably muted, yet still possesses a deeper tonal quality reminiscent of nylon's acoustic properties.

Despite their differing materials, both switches achieve notably similar sound profiles. The nylon used in the Deep Navy’s construction dampens sound effectively, producing richer auditory feedback. Comparatively, the POM housings of the MoonRosa switch create a similarly pleasant yet unique sound, emphasizing subtle nuances that can also result in a deep sound experience. This interplay of materials reveals that both switches aim for a high-quality auditory response, albeit through different physical compositions. While the distinctness of materials suggests varied qualities, the overall auditory outcomes of both switches align in their pursuit of a satisfying sound.

In terms of tactile feedback, the impact of each housing material is pronounced based on the manner in which the switches are pressed and released. The softness of nylon in the Deep Navy enhances the bottom-out feel, which can make for a smoother typing experience, while the POM of the MoonRosa similarly influences this sensation but allows for slightly different feedback dynamics due to its structural properties. Ultimately, the two switch types, though they utilize various plastics, reflect a commitment to optimizing sound and tactile feedback. Whether through the dampening qualities of nylon or the unique muted acoustic profile of POM, both the HMX Deep Navy and KTT MoonRosa can deliver impressive auditory experiences to typists.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the KTT MoonRosa linear switch, we see both similarities and differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Deep Navy has an actuation force of 40 grams while the MoonRosa is slightly lighter with an actuation force of 37 grams. This means that the MoonRosa may be more comfortable for users who prefer a lighter touch, allowing for extended typing sessions without as much fatigue. Both switches share the same bottom out force of 45 grams, indicating that they feel equally substantial when fully pressed down. Overall, the MoonRosa switch offers a lighter touch for actuation, making it suitable for users who prioritize ease of keystroke, while the Deep Navy provides a slightly heavier feel for those who appreciate a more tactile experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the KTT MoonRosa linear switch, it becomes clear that they differ slightly. The Deep Navy features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the MoonRosa has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the MoonRosa is the shorter of the two, offering a slightly more responsive feel that may appeal to gamers seeking quicker actuation. On the other hand, the Deep Navy provides a bit more depth with its longer travel distance, which some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, while both switches are relatively close in travel distance, the choice between them will depend on individual preferences regarding responsiveness and key feel.

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 MoonRosa comes in at $4.88 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

In terms of sound, the HMX Deep Navy switch presents a rich and sharp sound profile, characteristic of its full nylon construction, which can produce a pleasing acoustics experience while typing. This contrasts with the KTT MoonRosa, which has a low-pitched sound signature that offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. The MoonRosa's neutral sound makes it less intrusive, appealing to those who prefer a quieter typing experience. However, it’s important to note that sound perception can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard design and choice of keycaps, which means both switches could produce different auditory experiences depending on the setup.

Regarding the feel, the Deep Navy switch boasts a silky-smooth experience attributed to the Ly stem, which provides an enjoyable tactile sensation during use. In comparison, the MoonRosa switch is described as having a mild feel, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Additionally, the MoonRosa is easy to press, requiring minimal force to activate, thus reducing finger fatigue and enhancing comfort during prolonged typing sessions. This combination results in a smooth, effortless experience that caters to users seeking a more laid-back typing feel.

Overall, both the HMX Deep Navy and the KTT MoonRosa switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Deep Navy appeals to those who appreciate a more pronounced auditory experience while enjoying a smooth touch, whereas the MoonRosa is ideal for users opting for a more subdued acoustic profile along with an easy-going typing feel. Ultimately, regardless of the differences, both switches offer qualities that can lead to satisfying typing experiences, with the choice depending largely on personal preferences for sound and tactile feedback.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the HMX Deep Navy and the KTT MoonRosa linear switches largely depends on your personal typing preferences and the sound experience you desire. If you appreciate a rich and sharp sound profile while enjoying the silky smoothness of each keystroke, the Deep Navy switch may be your ideal pick. Its nylon construction promises not only durability but also a pronounced auditory experience that elevates the typing vibe, making it suitable for situations where you want your keystrokes to stand out. On the other hand, if you prefer a more neutral sound that’s low-pitched and forgiving, the MoonRosa switch, with its buttery smooth POM construction, should be your go-to. This switch offers a mild and gentle typing experience that emphasizes comfort and reduced finger fatigue, making it perfect for long typing sessions or environments where you want a more subdued sound. Therefore, consider what attributes resonate with you: if sound richness and a pronounced tactile feel are priorities, go for the Deep Navy; if you seek a mellow, comfortable experience with ease of use, opt for the MoonRosa. Ultimately, both switches have their merits, and your choice will reflect your unique typing style and environment.

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