HMX Deep Navy vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the HMX Deep Navy and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Deep Navy and KTT Phalaenopsis offer distinct experiences tailored to varying user preferences. The Deep Navy, renowned for its rich and vibrant sound profile, is constructed from full nylon, delivering silky smooth keystrokes thanks to its Ly stem design. This linear switch excels in providing a buttery typing experience, making it a popular choice for gamers and typists who prioritize speed and fluidity without the interruption of tactile feedback. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis stands out with its visually striking translucent design that combines aesthetics with functionality. Featuring a light actuation force of 37g, it minimizes finger fatigue during extended typing sessions, while the 50g tactile force ensures a satisfying and noticeable bump for each keystroke, appealing to those who enjoy a more engaging typing experience. While both switches cater to specific preferences and usage scenarios, they highlight the trade-off between smoothness and tactility. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The HMX Deep Navy and the KTT Phalaenopsis represent two distinct approaches to housing materials in switch design, leading to contrasting auditory experiences. The Deep Navy features a nylon top housing, which is noted for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is largely due to nylon's relatively softer composition, which absorbs sound waves more effectively than harder plastics. In practical terms, this absorption results in a sound that is duller and rounder, making it more suitable for users who favor a punchy, tactile feedback when typing. In comparison, the Phalaenopsis opts for a polycarbonate top housing, contributing to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. The rigidity of polycarbonate allows for clearer and more resonant sound projection, giving it an advantage in environments where clarity and brightness are desired.
When we shift to the bottom housing materials, the contrast remains apparent. The Deep Navy employs nylon again, mirroring the same sound absorption properties inherent in its top housing. This consistency throughout the switch enhances the overall deeper sound experience, reinforcing the rounded auditory quality associated with nylon. Conversely, the Phalaenopsis's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharper and crisper sound characteristics highlighted with its top housing. Here, the stiffer nature of polycarbonate means that users will experience a brighter sound when bottoming out. Essentially, the materials used in both the top and bottom housings directly shape the feel and sound experience of the switches, and for those who prioritize auditory feedback, these materials matter immensely.
It's worth noting that the combination of these materials creates nuanced sound profiles within each switch. The Deep Navy produces a cohesive, full-bodied sound experience, where the softer nylon characteristics permeate through both the top and bottom housings. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis delivers a two-part auditory experience that showcases the sharper traits of polycarbonate, where both top and bottom housings contribute to an overall brighter and crisper sound. Consequently, while each switch embraces a distinct aesthetic and auditory identity through its choice of materials, both the HMX Deep Navy and KTT Phalaenopsis demonstrate how the housing material influences user experience and sound signature. If users aim to achieve similar performance metrics, they must consider the integrated effects of both housing materials on sound and key feel when choosing between the two.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, both exhibit relatively light characteristics, though they differ in their specifications. The Deep Navy has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Phalaenopsis features a slightly lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 50 grams. This indicates that while both switches require minimal force to actuate, the Deep Navy offers a smoother transition with a slightly firmer bottoming out sensation. Consequently, the HMX Deep Navy is the lighter option overall due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces compared to the KTT Phalaenopsis. Users seeking a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions might prefer the Deep Navy, while those who enjoy a more substantial feel during typing may gravitate toward the Phalaenopsis despite its heavier characteristics.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, there is a clear distinction to note. The Deep Navy has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Phalaenopsis measures 4 mm. This puts the Deep Navy in the category of shorter travel distances, which can appeal to gamers and those who favor a quicker response time. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis offers a longer travel distance, providing users with a more pronounced tactile feedback that some may find more satisfying. Therefore, if you prefer a more responsive experience, the Deep Navy would likely be the better choice, while the Phalaenopsis would cater to those who enjoy a deeper, more traditional typing 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 Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
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
The HMX Deep Navy linear switch emits a distinct and sharp sound profile, characterized by a smooth and consistent keystroke without the additional auditory feedback that tactile or clicky switches provide. In contrast, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch delivers a more bassy and thocky sound, producing a rich, satisfying thud upon actuation. This deeper resonance comes from its design and construction, likely enhanced by the keyboard and keycap combination used. Overall, while both switches offer enjoyable auditory experiences, the Deep Navy leans toward a crisper sound, while the Phalaenopsis offers a fuller, deeper quality.
When it comes to feel, the Deep Navy switch is known for its smooth linear action that provides an effortless typing experience, making it ideal for users who prefer a seamless keystroke without any tactile resistance. In comparison, the Phalaenopsis switch features a noticeable tactile bump with a stepped feel, which adds physical feedback during typing. This tactile sensation can help improve typing accuracy and ensure a more engaging experience as users receive clear signals of key actuation. Consequently, while both switches provide satisfying feel qualities, they cater to different preferences—those who appreciate a smooth, uninterrupted experience may gravitate towards the Deep Navy, while others may prefer the tactile feedback of the Phalaenopsis.
In conclusion, the choice between HMX Deep Navy linear switches and KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switches ultimately boils down to personal preference regarding sound and feel. If you desire a sharp and smooth typing experience without tactile interruptions, the Deep Navy is an excellent choice. If you appreciate auditory depth and tactile feedback in your keystrokes, the Phalaenopsis offers a rich, satisfying experience. While the audio characteristics and tactile sensations differ between the two, both switches promise to enhance your typing experience in their unique ways.
Conclusion
To sum up, the choice between the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you find yourself frequently typing for extended periods and value a smooth keypress without any tactile interruption, the Deep Navy switches would be an excellent choice. Their light bottom-out force of 45 grams and silky smooth feel, combined with their rich sound profile, provide an immersive typing experience that's ideal for both gaming and typing. However, if you prefer a more tactile typing experience that offers feedback with each keystroke, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch is the way to go. Its 50-gram tactile force and stepped bump create an engaging typing sensation that can enhance your accuracy and satisfaction, especially useful for typing tasks where you want to feel each keypress distinctly. In conclusion, consider your priorities: for a smooth, uninterrupted experience, go with Deep Navy; for responsive tactile feedback, choose Phalaenopsis. Each switch has its charm, ensuring that your choice aligns with how you want to interact with your keyboard.
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