HMX Gravel vs. KTT Mint

Overview

When it comes to choosing a linear mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Gravel and KTT Mint stand out as noteworthy contenders, each offering unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The HMX Gravel is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness and refined typing feel, featuring a medium-light actuation force that leans towards the lighter side. This ensures a responsive and effortless experience, making it a great option for those who prioritize a fluid typing motion. In contrast, the KTT Mint also promotes a satisfyingly smooth typing experience but differentiates itself with its long pole stem, which creates a distinct “poppy thockiness” when typing. With its light and fleeting typing feel, it's perfect for users who enjoy a subtle auditory feedback during their sessions. While both switches offer smooth linear action, they cater to varying textures and sensations that could enhance your typing experience. 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 Mint Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$2.91 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the HMX Gravel and KTT Mint switches are notably similar, as both feature a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The use of polycarbonate for the top housing in both switches results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is a consequence of polycarbonate's stiffness, which promotes resonance and clarity in the sound output. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate makes it an excellent choice for showcasing RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the switch. Thus, users who appreciate vibrant backlighting will find both switches deliver a visually and audibly engaging experience.

Conversely, the nylon bottom housing in both the Gravel and Mint switches contributes to a distinctly deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, effectively absorbs sound waves, resulting in a more muted and rounded auditory experience compared to the sharpness of polycarbonate. This characteristic makes the nylon bottom housing crucial for the bottom-out sound when typing, providing a softer landing feel that contrasts with the more pronounced sound created by the polycarbonate top. As both switches share this nylon construction, they similarly offer users a comfort in typing that feels rich and plush, regardless of the switch.

Ultimately, while the HMX Gravel and KTT Mint utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings, the complementary nature of these choices leads to a harmonious auditory profile. The collaboration of the stiff polycarbonate top with the softer nylon bottom ensures that users experience both clarity and depth in sound. The polycarbonate contributes to the notable acoustic characteristics during key release, whereas the nylon enriches the bottom-out experience. This interplay results in a well-rounded switching experience that satisfies diverse preferences for sound and feel, showcasing the switches' shared qualities despite their material differentiation.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Gravel linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, both exhibit an actuation force of 45 grams, making them feel similarly light when triggering keystrokes. This means that typists can expect a comparable experience in terms of how effortlessly they can engage the keys. However, the bottom out forces differ slightly, with the Gravel at 50 grams and the Mint at 53 grams. This indicates that while both switches are designed to provide a comfortable typing experience, the Mint requires a bit more force to press all the way down, giving it a feel that is slightly heftier overall. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons, the Gravel may be the preferable choice, whereas the Mint, with its higher bottom out force, may cater to users who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Gravel linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, the Gravel features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Mint has a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Gravel may appeal to gamers and typists who prioritize speed and responsiveness, as it allows for quicker keystrokes. Conversely, the Mint’s longer travel distance might cater more to users who prefer a deeper feel and a more pronounced actuation, offering a satisfying sense of depth during typing. In summary, those seeking a faster tactile experience may lean towards the HMX Gravel, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress might opt for the KTT Mint. Therefore, the Gravel is the shorter switch, and the Mint is the longer one.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Gravel linear switch remains an enigma as its auditory characteristics are not explicitly defined. In contrast, the KTT Mint linear switch is characterized by a low-pitched tone that offers a more bass-heavy and mellow sound profile, complemented by a neutral quality that strikes a balance for various typing environments. This means that while the Gravel may not have a defined sound profile, the Mint's acoustic qualities provide a pleasant auditory experience that is versatile enough for both home and office use.

When it comes to feel, the HMX Gravel switch is recognized for its exceptional smoothness and refined typing experience, along with a medium-light actuation force that enhances responsiveness. On the other hand, the KTT Mint switch presents a mild and polished feel, making it approachable for users who prefer a gentle typing action. The long pole stem of the Mint switch adds a unique "poppy thockiness," which adds a tactile dimension to the experience without detracting from the overall smoothness. While both switches prioritize smoothness, the Gravel’s emphasis on a refined typing experience distinguishes it slightly from the Mint’s user-friendly and mild characteristics.

In conclusion, while the HMX Gravel switch is celebrated for its smoothness and refined feel, the KTT Mint switch stands out with its distinctive low-pitched sound and mild, polished typing experience. Both switches cater to those who appreciate smooth operation, but they do so in ways that could cater to different preferences. The Gravel provides a more refined experience with a lighter actuation, whereas the Mint offers a gentle and pleasant touch, making both excellent choices for newcomers looking to explore the world of linear switches in their mechanical keyboards.

Conclusion

To wrap up, the choice between the HMX Gravel linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you prioritize an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience with a lighter bottom-out force, the Gravel is your go-to option. It's perfect for fast typists or gamers who appreciate a snappy, responsive feel without too much resistance, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions and rapid keystrokes. On the other hand, if you prefer a mild yet polished feel with a slightly firmer resistance that provides a satisfying thockiness during typing, the Mint would be more suitable. It strikes a balanced tonal profile and is approachable for users across various skill levels, being a great choice for both home and office environments. So, consider what aspects of a switch matter most to you—smoothness and lightness with the Gravel versus a mild, refined feel with the Mint—and make your decision accordingly.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Gravel Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

KTT Mint Linear

$2.91 per 10

Learn more