HMX Gravel vs. KTT Hyacinth

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Gravel and KTT Hyacinth linear switches each offer unique advantages that cater to different typing preferences. The HMX Gravel is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness and refined typing feel, appealing to enthusiasts who seek a responsive and effortless experience with a medium-light actuation force that enhances typing fluidity. On the other hand, the KTT Hyacinth sets itself apart with a thoughtfully designed 3.5mm travel distance, which alleviates the hard bottoming-out sensation often experienced with longer-stem switches, promoting a balance of tactile feedback, sound, and comfort. Additionally, its use of a single-stage elongated spring ensures a consistent force curve, appealing to those who value stability in their keystrokes. Ultimately, while both switches excel in delivering a satisfying typing encounter, they do so through different design philosophies and user experiences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Gravel Linear

KTT Hyacinth Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$4.03

$3.75 per 10

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Housing materials

The HMX Gravel and KTT Hyacinth switches share a striking similarity in their top housing material, which is made of polycarbonate. Both switches benefit from polycarbonate's inherent properties, leading to a sound profile that is characterized by sharpness, high-pitched clarity, and crisp resonance. This is largely attributed to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic, enabling sound waves to travel more efficiently and resulting in a bright auditory response. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the appearance of RGB lighting, making it an attractive choice for users who appreciate illuminated keyboard setups. Consequently, both the Gravel and the Hyacinth effectively leverage these polycarbonate properties to achieve similar auditory outcomes when the keys are pressed or released.

In contrast, the bottom housing of both the HMX Gravel and KTT Hyacinth is constructed from nylon, which plays a critical role in shaping the overall acoustic profile of the switches. Nylon, being a softer plastic, provides a deeper, fuller sound profile that contributes to a rounded, cushioned auditory experience when typing. This unique characteristic of nylon allows it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a more muted and pleasant bottom-out sound, which is particularly significant for tactile feedback during typing. As both switches utilize the same nylon material for their bottom housing, users can expect a consistent level of sound absorption and richness across both models.

Ultimately, while the HMX Gravel and KTT Hyacinth share commonalities in their top and bottom housing materials, the distinct contributions of polycarbonate and nylon lead to a nuanced typing experience. The polycarbonate top housing impacts the clarity and resonance of sound upon key release, while the nylon bottom housing shapes the overall sound and feel when a key is bottomed out. As a result, users will enjoy a cohesive sound experience across both switches, harnessing the benefits of polycarbonate and nylon to create a well-balanced auditory profile. Whether opting for the HMX Gravel or the KTT Hyacinth, typists can expect a harmonious blend of sharpness from the top and fullness from the bottom, culminating in an enjoyable typing journey.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Gravel linear switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch, both exhibit the same actuation force of 45 grams, which indicates that users will experience a similar keypress feel in terms of triggering a keystroke. However, there is a noticeable difference in their bottom out forces; the Gravel switch has a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Hyacinth reaches a slightly heavier 56 grams. This distinction means that while both switches are equally light in terms of actuation, the Hyacinth provides a more substantial feel at the bottom of the keypress. In terms of overall weight, the HMX Gravel is the lighter option, appealing to those who prefer a faster and less strenuous typing experience for long sessions. In contrast, the KTT Hyacinth's medium-light bottom out force may attract users who favor a firmer push feel, making it a better choice for those who enjoy a heavier typing experience.

Travel distance

The HMX Gravel linear switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch both feature an identical travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that users will experience the same amount of key travel when pressing down on either switch, resulting in a similar feel and tactile feedback during use. Since both switches have the same travel distance, players and typists can expect consistent performance when transitioning between these two options. Thus, those who enjoy the Gravel can confidently switch to the Hyacinth without worrying about differences in travel distance affecting their typing or gaming experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the HMX Gravel switch remains largely undefined in the original details, making it difficult to provide a direct comparison. However, the KTT Hyacinth switch is characterized as neutral, possessing a moderate sound profile that suits a wide range of environments. This makes it versatile for both casual and professional settings, appealing to users who seek a balanced auditory experience. Additionally, the sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by the type of keyboard and keycaps used, so while one could expect the Hyacinth to offer a pleasant and unobtrusive acoustic presence, the Gravel’s sound remains an unknown variable.

In terms of feel, the HMX Gravel switch is well-known for its exceptional smoothness and refined typing experience, achieved through a lighter actuation force that offers effortless responsiveness. In contrast, the KTT Hyacinth switch is described as silky, providing a remarkably smooth typing experience while also featuring a subtle resistance. This allows for a light typing feel without overly pronounced feedback, making the Hyacinth ideal for those who prefer a delicate touch. While both switches prioritize a smooth feel, the Gravel focuses more on effortless action, while the Hyacinth strikes a balance between smoothness and a gently reassuring sensation.

In conclusion, while the HMX Gravel switch boasts a reputation for smoothness and a light actuation force, the KTT Hyacinth offers a unique design that mitigates the hard bottoming-out sensation through its travel distance and choice of spring. Sound remains a differentiating factor, with the Hyacinth providing a neutral auditory experience while the Gravel's sound is currently undefined. Ultimately, both switches cater to specific user preferences: the Gravel prioritizing an effortless typing experience and the Hyacinth maintaining smoothness with a subtle tactile quality, allowing newcomers to choose based on their prioritization of these qualities.

Conclusion

To wrap up, the choice between the HMX Gravel and KTT Hyacinth linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you prioritize an exceptionally smooth and responsive typing experience, the Gravel is undoubtedly the better option. With its lighter bottom-out force of 50 grams, it provides a more effortless feel, making it a great choice for fast typists or those who enjoy a less tactile, more fluid keypress. On the other hand, if you prefer a balance that includes slightly more resistance and a unique design aimed at enhancing user comfort, the Hyacinth might be more suited to your needs. With its medium-light 56-gram actuation force and a 3.5mm travel distance that minimizes harsh bottoming out, it’s an excellent choice for those who want a consistent feel without sacrificing comfort during prolonged typing sessions. Additionally, if you’re working in a shared environment, the Hyacinth’s neutral sound profile makes it more discreet, whereas the Gravel may be preferred in situations where sound is less of a concern. Ultimately, consider your typing style, the environment you'll be using the switches in, and your comfort needs to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Gravel Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

KTT Hyacinth Linear

$4.03

$3.75 per 10

Learn more