HMX Gravel vs. KTT Peach
An in-depth look at the HMX Gravel and the KTT Peach switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often debate the merits of various options. The HMX Gravel and KTT Peach are both linear switches that cater to different preferences among typists and gamers alike. The Gravel is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness and refined typing feel, offering a medium-light actuation force that makes every keystroke feel both responsive and effortless. In contrast, the KTT Peach stands out with its syrupy smooth typing experience complemented by a deep, thocky sound profile, appealing to those who enjoy a richer auditory feedback while typing. While both switches provide a smooth feel ideal for extended use, the Gravel's lighter actuation may favor faster-paced gameplay or typing, whereas the KTT Peach could be preferred for a more satisfying auditory experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
The HMX Gravel and KTT Peach switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which position them distinctly in terms of sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing allows both switches to produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This characteristic is largely attributed to the material's relative stiffness, which enhances clarity and resonance. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate not only serves an aesthetic purpose by making the switches compatible with RGB lighting but also ensures an enhanced visual experience when illuminated. As a result, users can expect a similar auditory experience while engaging with either switch, leveraging the advantages of polycarbonate's clear housing to produce vibrant sound profiles that are accentuated by lighting effects.
In contrast, the bottom housings of both the HMX Gravel and KTT Peach switches are made of nylon, which introduces a different quality to their sound profiles. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs sound more effectively, leading to a deeper and fuller auditory experience. This contrast between the materials of the top and bottom housings means that while both switches can achieve a crisp sound upon actuation, the bottom-out sound will be influenced by the nylon housing's ability to create a rounder, more subdued sound due to its absorption properties. This combination effectively allows the Gravel and Peach to balance the sharpness of the polycarbonate top with the mellowness provided by the nylon bottom, creating a well-rounded tactile experience.
Ultimately, while the HMX Gravel and KTT Peach switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings, the combination serves to enrich the overall sound experience for the user. Both switches excel in their own right—offering a harmonious blend where the clear, bright sound of the polycarbonate top complements the deeper, more resonant characteristics of the nylon bottom. Thus, whether one opts for the Gravel or the Peach, the result will be a distinctive yet balanced auditory profile that aligns well with the user's preferences in sound and feel when typing, showcasing the unique strengths of each material involved in the design.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Gravel linear switch and the KTT Peach linear switch, we find that both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, allowing typists to achieve a similar responsiveness when pressing the keys. However, the bottom out force differs between the two: the Gravel has a bottom out force of 50 grams, whereas the Peach has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 53 grams. This means that the Gravel switch provides a lighter feel overall, while the Peach, being a bit heavier, may cater to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In terms of weight, the Gravel is lighter, making it a better choice for extended typing sessions or portability, while the Peach offers a stronger push feel that some users may favor for more tactile feedback.
Travel distance
The HMX Gravel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the KTT Peach linear switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Gravel provides a more streamlined pressing experience, which may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times. On the other hand, the Peach, with its deeper 4 mm travel, could be preferred by those who appreciate a more substantial feel when activating the key. Ultimately, if you enjoy a quicker and more responsive experience, the Gravel's shorter travel distance would be the better choice, whereas the Peach offers a more traditional and robust keystroke for users who favor depth in their switches.
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 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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Gravel switch offers a unique acoustic signature that remains undescribed in the provided information, leaving its precise sound quality open to interpretation based on personal setups. In contrast, the KTT Peach switch is characterized by a low-pitched sound profile that delivers a deep, thocky resonance, providing an audible experience that is both bass-heavy and mellow. This combination allows the Peach switch to produce a more grounded sound, making it well-suited for users who prefer a richer auditory environment during typing sessions. The specific sound of the Gravel could vary significantly depending on the choice of keyboard and keycaps, which also plays a crucial role in defining the overall auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the HMX Gravel switch is noted for its exceptional smoothness and refined typing experience, designed to offer a medium-light actuation force that strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort. This allows for a delightful and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Peach switch is characterized by a mild feel that provides a gentle typing experience. It embraces a balanced approach that ensures users of all backgrounds find it approachable and pleasant, making these switches versatile for various typing preferences. Overall, both switches are positioned to deliver smooth and enjoyable tactile feedback, although the Gravel may cater more explicitly to enthusiasts looking for a refined experience.
In conclusion, both the HMX Gravel and KTT Peach linear switches cater to users seeking smooth typing experiences but differ in sound and overall feel. The Gravel switch boasts an appealing typing feel with a medium-light actuation, perfect for those who want a responsive and refined experience. However, it lacks a defined sound profile, leaving room for personal interpretation. The KTT Peach, meanwhile, combines its syrupy smoothness with a distinct thocky sound and mild tactile feedback, appealing to those who enjoy a more grounded auditory and physical sensation during use. While each switch has its unique characteristics, users can expect a smooth typing experience from both, allowing them to select based on their preferences for sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Gravel linear switch and the KTT Peach linear switch will largely depend on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile. If you prioritize a lighter actuation force and desire an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience, the HMX Gravel would likely be your best option. Its 50-gram bottom out force allows for a more effortless typing experience, making it ideal for heavy typists who want to reduce finger fatigue during extended sessions. On the other hand, if you appreciate a medium-light feel that offers a balance between responsiveness and comfort, while also enjoying a low-pitched, thocky sound, the KTT Peach is worth considering. With a 53-gram bottom out force, it strikes a nice balance for those who want a mild yet satisfying keystroke that feels both approachable and pleasant. Ultimately, choose the Gravel for a smooth, light touch ideal for fast typing and extended use, and select the Peach for a more robust sound profile with a slightly firmer key feel that can cater to a variety of environments and preferences.
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