HMX Deep Navy vs. KTT Peach
An in-depth look at the HMX Deep Navy and the KTT Peach switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can significantly impact your typing experience, and two notable contenders in the linear switch category are the HMX Deep Navy and the KTT Peach. The Deep Navy switch is distinguished by its full nylon construction, delivering a rich, sharp sound profile and a silky smooth keystroke courtesy of its Ly stem, making it an appealing choice for those seeking an engaging auditory feedback with each press. On the other hand, the KTT Peach offers a syrupy smooth typing experience with a deep, thocky sound profile, classified as low-pitched, neutral, and mild, which may satisfy those who prefer a more understated yet fulfilling acoustic quality. Both switches provide a unique experience tailored to different preferences—whether you crave a more vibrant sound or a conservative thock, there is an option that aligns with your typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that is right 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
No
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
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
The HMX Deep Navy and the KTT Peach utilize differing materials for their top housings, leading to distinct sound profiles during typing. The Deep Navy features a nylon top housing, which is known for its softer texture that effectively absorbs sound. This characteristic results in a deeper, fuller sound profile that many users find satisfying. In contrast, the KTT Peach employs a polycarbonate top housing, which is a stiffer plastic. This rigidity contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that is often described as crisper and more resonant. Therefore, when typing on these switches, users will experience a significant difference in the auditory feedback and tonal qualities, with the Deep Navy providing a warm, rounded sound and the KTT Peach offering a bright, clear sound.
Interestingly, both the Deep Navy and the KTT Peach feature nylon as their bottom housing material, which brings a level of uniformity to their typing experiences. Both switches will exhibit a similar deeper sound profile from the bottom housing, as nylon tends to absorb sound effectively. This means that regardless of the differences in their top housings, the ultimate bottom-out sound and feel will share common characteristics between the two switches. The nylon bottom will contribute to a duller and rounder sound upon key activation, making the experience feel consistent across both models when pressing down the keys.
The interplay between the two housing materials in each switch ultimately shapes the overall typing experience. While the KTT Peach’s polycarbonate top housing enhances clarity and brightness during releases, the shared nylon bottom housing between the two ensures a deeper sound during key presses. Therefore, users may find that regardless of the differences in typing sounds while typing, the foundational feel of each switch remains similar due to the nylon bottom. This composition allows for a cohesive experience where the qualities of both materials are balanced out, ensuring that even with stark differences in sound profiles, users can expect a fulfilling tactile and auditory experience across both switches.
Weight
The comparison between the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the KTT Peach linear switch reveals distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Deep Navy switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a great option for those who prefer a lighter touch, which can be beneficial for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the KTT Peach switch features a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams along with a bottom out force of 53 grams. This difference means that the Peach provides a more substantial feel under the fingers, appealing to users who prefer a stronger push. Ultimately, if you're looking for a lighter switch, the HMX Deep Navy would be the better choice, whereas those seeking a more pronounced resistance should opt for the KTT Peach. While both switches have a different actuation and bottom out forces, they suit varying typing preferences, with the Deep Navy being lighter and the Peach being heavier overall.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the KTT Peach linear switch, the differences are clear. The Deep Navy features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Peach has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Peach may provide a more pronounced tactile experience, catering to users who prefer a deeper key press. On the other hand, the shorter travel of the Deep Navy can deliver a quicker response time, making it potentially more suitable for gamers who favor rapid keystrokes. Consequently, if you're looking for a switch that offers a more responsive feel, the HMX Deep Navy would be the better choice, while the KTT Peach would be ideal for those who appreciate a more substantial keystroke depth.
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 Peach 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
In terms of sound, the HMX Deep Navy switches deliver a rich and sharp sound profile, thanks to their full nylon construction, which enhances resonance and clarity. Users can expect a crisp auditory feedback with each keystroke, making typing feel engaging and satisfying. Conversely, the KTT Peach switches offer a low-pitched sound that leans towards a deep, thocky tone, which tends to be more bass-heavy and mellow in comparison to higher-pitched alternatives. Both sound profiles cater to distinct preferences; while Deep Navy switches create an articulate and lively typing experience, the KTT Peach provides a warmer and more uniform auditory presence, making each typing scenario feel versatile and comfortable.
When evaluating the feel of these switches, the HMX Deep Navy provides a silky smooth typing experience, enhanced by the Ly stem design which contributes to a consistent and fluid keystroke. This smoothness can be a significant advantage for users who favor uninterrupted typing experiences. On the other hand, the KTT Peach switches are described as offering a mild feel, which results in a gentle typing experience that is approachable for most users. This characteristic bridges the gap for those who may be new to mechanical keyboards or are seeking a comfortable medium in feel without overwhelming tactile feedback. While both switches favor smoothness, the Deep Navy leans towards a sleeker interaction whereas the Peach offers a subtler experience.
Considering both switches holistically, the HMX Deep Navy and KTT Peach linear switches showcase distinct auditory and tactile qualities that cater to different preferences. The Deep Navy stands out with its impressive sound clarity and buttery smooth feel, while the Peach's more mellow sound and mild feel create a welcoming typing environment for users of all levels. Ultimately, your personal choice between these switches will boil down to whether you prioritize a more engaging auditory experience or seek a softer, accessible typing sensation. Both options will deliver desirable results, each in their unique way, allowing you to tailor your mechanical keyboard experience to your liking.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the KTT Peach linear switch will largely depend on your personal preferences regarding actuation force, sound, and typing feel. If you enjoy a lighter key press and are drawn to a rich, sharp sound profile, the Deep Navy, with its 45-gram bottom-out force, may be the better option for you. This switch's silky smoothness makes for a delightful typing experience, ideal for those who type extensively or prefer a more effortless keystroke action. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly firmer key press and a syrupy smooth feel with a deeper, thocky sound profile, the KTT Peach might be more to your liking. Its 53-gram bottom-out force provides a satisfying tactile feedback, making it suitable for both casual typing at home and focused work environments. Ultimately, you should select the switch that aligns with your typing style and acoustics preference to enhance your overall keyboard experience, ensuring that your mechanical keyboard complements your workflow.
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