HMX Gravel vs. KTT Rose
An in-depth look at the HMX Gravel and the KTT Rose switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular linear options often come to mind: the HMX Gravel and the KTT Rose. The HMX Gravel switches stand out for their exceptional smoothness and refined typing feel, making them a favorite among keyboard enthusiasts looking for a responsive and effortless typing experience. With a medium-light actuation force, these switches favor a lighter touch while offering a satisfyingly fluid feel. On the other hand, the KTT Rose switches are not just aesthetically pleasing; they feature progressive springs that deliver a uniquely substantial typing experience that strikes a balance between lightness and feedback, characterized by the delightful, bassy sound reminiscent of raindrops. While both switches excel in providing a linear typing experience, the HMX Gravel caters to those who prioritize smoothness and light touch, whereas the KTT Rose appeals to users who appreciate a dynamic feedback sensation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
Yes
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
When comparing the HMX Gravel and KTT Rose switches, it is worth noting that both feature polycarbonate top housings that contribute similarly to their sound profiles. Polycarbonate, recognized for its rigidity and translucency, produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound that enhances the overall auditory experience of the switch when pressed. This quality not only facilitates the clarity of sound but also optimizes the switches for aesthetic integration with RGB lighting, as the material allows light to pass through effectively. This dual functionality means that users can expect a vibrant illumination alongside a distinct auditory feedback, making both switches appeal to gamers and typists who appreciate a visually striking and sonically clear typing experience.
In contrast, the bottom housings of both switches are made from nylon, which creates a distinct auditory signature that differs from that of the polycarbonate top. Nylon is known for its softer texture and sound-dampening properties, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. When users engage with these switches, the nylon bottom housing absorbs excess sound, resulting in a rounder and more muted experience as opposed to the sharper top end produced by the polycarbonate. This difference in materials means that when a key is pressed, the sound profile of the Gravel and Rose switches will feature a combination of both the crispness from the polycarbonate top and the depth from the nylon bottom, creating an interesting interplay between the two materials.
Ultimately, the HMX Gravel and KTT Rose switches achieve a blend of characteristics that appeal to a variety of user preferences through their material choices. Although the top and bottom housings employ different properties—sharpness for the polycarbonate and fullness for the nylon—the combined attributes offer a well-rounded typing experience. Therefore, despite some differences in feel, both switches provide a consistent level of auditory satisfaction and visual appeal due to the synergy of the materials used. Users can expect to enjoy a specific auditory output that showcases the sharpness of polycarbonate and the warmth of nylon, leading to an overall engaging interaction when typing or gaming.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Gravel linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, a noticeable disparity emerges in both actuation and bottom out forces. The HMX Gravel features a light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, especially beneficial during long work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the KTT Rose has an unspecified actuation force but a notably heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This increased resistance can provide a more substantial typing feel that some users might appreciate. Consequently, while the Gravel is the lighter option, making it more suitable for extended use, the Rose may appeal to those who enjoy a firmer push. Overall, users seeking a lighter switch experience should gravitate towards the HMX Gravel, whereas those desiring a heftier feel may find the KTT Rose more satisfactory.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Gravel linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, the Gravel features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Rose extends slightly longer at 4 mm. This means that the Gravel offers a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers and users who prefer faster response times due to the lesser distance required to actuate the switch. In contrast, the longer 4 mm travel distance of the Rose provides a more pronounced tactile experience that some users might find more satisfying, especially those who appreciate a deeper key press. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences regarding responsiveness versus a more hearty key feel.
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 Rose comes in at $3.01 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 remains relatively undefined, requiring further specific details to draw any conclusions. In contrast, the KTT Rose switch provides a rich auditory experience characterized by a low-pitched, bassy sound akin to raindrops. This bass-heavy tone not only contributes to a pleasant typing experience but also creates a neutral sound profile that is versatile enough for various settings, whether at home or in an office. The sound produced by mechanical switches is often influenced by factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps, but the Rose's inherent sound characteristics provide a great starting point for those seeking a more mellow and soothing typing atmosphere.
Regarding the feel, the HMX Gravel switch is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness and refined typing experience, marked by a medium-light actuation force that leans towards the lighter end. This combination offers a highly responsive and effortless typing sensation. The KTT Rose switch, on the other hand, is known for its mild and polished qualities. The mild nature of the Rose switch ensures that the typing experience remains gentle and approachable, thus suitable for a broad range of users. The polished finish of the switch enhances its smoothness, resulting in reduced friction during key travel, making both switches notably smooth but with different emphases on responsiveness and resistance.
In summary, both the HMX Gravel and the KTT Rose linear switches offer distinct yet appealing experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Gravel excels in providing a smooth, responsive experience ideal for those who enjoy a lighter touch, while the Rose combines a more substantial feel with a soothing sound profile, perfect for users who prefer a mellow typing atmosphere. Ultimately, each switch has its unique characteristics, but users can expect an enjoyable typing experience whether they lean towards the smooth responsiveness of the Gravel or the mild elegance of the Rose.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the HMX Gravel linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, consider your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and the force required to actuate the keys. If you favor a lighter touch with an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience, the Gravel switch is an excellent choice, especially for extended typing sessions or gaming where rapid key presses are essential. Its 50-gram bottom-out force makes it less taxing on your fingers, allowing for faster actuation without the effort. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial response with a unique auditory experience, the KTT Rose switch could be your go-to option. With a firm 63.5 grams of actuation force and a low-pitched sound profile reminiscent of gentle raindrops, it offers a balanced feel that's perfect for those who enjoy a little feedback and resistance while typing. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you prioritize a light, smooth typing experience or a more grounded and engaging touch, so weigh these factors thoughtfully to find the switch that suits you best.
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