HMX Gravel vs. KTT Laurel
An in-depth look at the HMX Gravel and the KTT Laurel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Gravel and KTT Laurel linear switches both present appealing options, each with its unique characteristics. The Gravel is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness and refined typing feel, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize effortless keystrokes in their typing experience. With a medium-light actuation force that skews towards the lighter side, it offers a responsive touch that caters to both casual and dedicated typists. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel combines a medium-light linear feel with a short travel distance and a long pole design, providing an optimal blend of responsiveness and comfort. Its full POM housing contributes to a subtly low-pitched sound profile, appealing to users who desire a quieter typing experience without sacrificing feedback. While both switches cater to different preferences, the Gravel emphasizes a smoother feel, whereas the Laurel’s design hones in on a snappy, yet comfortable tactile interaction. 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
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22m spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Gravel and the KTT Laurel switches, significant differences emerge that affect their acoustic profiles. The Gravel features a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is largely due to polycarbonate's rigidity, which enhances resonance and clarity. Its clear, translucent nature also makes it particularly advantageous when incorporating RGB lighting, allowing light to pass through vividly. In contrast, the Laurel’s top housing is made of POM, which offers a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both materials offer distinct acoustic qualities, they diverge in tonal characteristics—polycarbonate tends to create a brighter sound, while POM generates a warmer, more subdued response.
Looking at the bottom housing, the Gravel utilizes nylon, a classic choice, which is softer and capable of producing a fuller, deeper sound by absorbing more impact. This results in a rounded acoustic experience that complements the sharper tones of the polycarbonate top. On the other hand, the Laurel's bottom housing also features POM, known for producing a unique, yet similarly muted sound. The similarities in the Laurel's construction mean that both switches will exhibit comparable characteristics in terms of sound depth and fullness; however, the POM in the Laurel may provide a more homogenous sound profile from top to bottom. The key differentiator lies in how these materials interact with the sonic properties—nylon's inherent absorption against POM's distinctive tonality.
Ultimately, the combination of materials in each switch influences the overall sound experience. With the Gravel's polycarbonate top and nylon bottom, users can expect a blend of clarity and depth, likely resulting in a dynamic, well-rounded auditory experience. Conversely, the KTT Laurel, employing POM for both the top and bottom, will ideally offer a cohesive, deeper sound throughout. While contrasting in individual characteristics, both switches can produce pleasing auditory results through their unique constructions. The rhythmic interaction between the upper and lower housings determines the tactile and auditory sensations experienced during use, allowing for personalization based on user preference.
Weight
The HMX Gravel and KTT Laurel linear switches both offer a similar bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a consistent tactile experience at the final stage of a keystroke. However, they differ slightly in their actuation forces, with the Gravel requiring 45 grams to actuate compared to the Laurel's lighter 43 grams. This means that the Laurel switch might provide a slightly easier key press, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons, as some users prefer a lighter touch. In contrast, the Gravel, being a bit heavier in actuation, may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial feel while typing. Overall, users seeking a lighter switch for comfort during long use may gravitate towards the KTT Laurel, while those who prefer a more pronounced resistance might choose the HMX Gravel.
Travel distance
Both the HMX Gravel linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch feature a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which means you'll experience the same amount of keypress travel when using either switch. This similarity in travel distance allows for comparable feedback and responsiveness, making them feel quite alike in practice. Whether you prefer the Gravel or the Laurel, the consistent 3.5 mm travel distance ensures that your typing experience will be equally satisfying in terms of depth and response.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Gravel has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gravel for $2.99.
The KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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 comparing the sound profiles, the KTT Laurel linear switch stands out with its subtly low-pitched sound. This low-pitched characteristic provides a warmer and more mellow auditory experience, which many typists find pleasing and less jarring than higher-pitched alternatives. Unfortunately, the sound profile of the HMX Gravel switch is not specified. However, given that both switches are linear, one can expect that the Gravel will likely offer a relatively quiet experience, though its exact tonal quality remains unspecified. Ultimately, users could find similar experiences regarding noise levels, but the specific resonance of the Laurel might attract those searching for sounds with deeper undertones.
In terms of feel, the HMX Gravel switch is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness and refined typing sensation. With a medium-light actuation force, it provides an effortless and fluid experience, making it an excellent option for prolonged typing sessions. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel is characterized by a ‘snappy’ feel, which translates to a highly responsive typing experience. This responsiveness is likely aided by its design features, such as a shorter travel distance and a longer pole, contributing to a lively typing rhythm. While both switches fall into the medium-light category, the Gravel’s smoothness and the Laurel’s snappiness will lead to differing tactile experiences—one offering a serene glide and the other a more dynamic feedback.
In summary, both the HMX Gravel and KTT Laurel linear switches cater to typists who favor a medium-light feel but with distinct differences in tactile response and sound profile. The Gravel excels in smoothness and a refined feel, ideal for those who prioritize a seamless typing experience. In contrast, the Laurel brings a lively responsiveness alongside its enjoyable low-pitched sound. While both switches promise a pleasant and efficient typing experience, the nuanced qualities will ultimately determine which switch suits an individual user's preferences best.
Conclusion
To sum up, your choice between the HMX Gravel linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch ultimately hinges on your individual preferences and typing style. If you prioritize an exceptionally smooth and refined typing feel, the Gravel might be the better option for you. Its lighter actuation force allows for a responsive and nearly effortless typing experience, making it a great choice for prolonged typing sessions where comfort is key. On the other hand, if you appreciate a balance of responsiveness and comfort, along with a snappier feel, the KTT Laurel may be more to your liking. Its short travel and longer pole design contribute to a more lively typing experience, complemented by a subtle low-pitched sound that can enhance your overall typing atmosphere. Therefore, consider what aspects of typing you value most—smoothness and comfort with the Gravel, or responsiveness and a slightly more pronounced sound profile with the Laurel—to make the most informed decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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