HMX Gravel vs. KTT Sea Salt Lemon
An in-depth look at the HMX Gravel and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between the HMX Gravel and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon, both of which are linear switches but offer distinctly different experiences. The HMX Gravel is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness and refined feel, designed for those who prefer a medium-light actuation force that provides a responsive and effortless typing experience without compromising on comfort. In contrast, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon stands out for its progressive spring mechanics and KTT's innovative dry-lube design, delivering a buttery smooth typing sensation that appeals to users looking for a low-pitched and neutral feedback. While the Gravel is perfect for users seeking a light, agile touch with refined smoothness, the Sea Salt Lemon is tailored for those who desire a gentle yet consistent keystroke with mild acoustics. 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
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 Sea Salt Lemon switches share a notable similarity in their top housing materials, as both utilize polycarbonate. This commonality contributes to producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile that many users find appealing. Polycarbonate's inherent stiffness aids in creating a clearer and more resonant auditory experience, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate precise sound quality in their switches. Additionally, both switches benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate, which enhances their compatibility with RGB lighting, allowing for vibrant illumination that can elevate the aesthetic of any keyboard setup.
In contrast, the bottom housing of both switches is constructed from nylon, which brings a different sonic characteristic to the overall typing experience. Nylon’s softer plastic structure results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, effectively absorbing sound waves and creating a duller yet rounder auditory quality. This aspect of nylon is particularly beneficial for users who desire a more muted typing sound, as it provides a more cushioned feel upon bottoming out. Consequently, while the top housings of both switches align in materials and sound output, the bottom housings introduce a contrasting auditory depth that diversifies the overall sound profile experienced during typing.
When these two housing types are combined, the resulting sound profile into a cohesive auditory experience allows for a unique interplay. The clarity and brightness from the polycarbonate top housing complement the warmth and depth of the nylon bottom housing, creating a distinct synergy in sound. As a result, irrespective of the switch selection, users can expect a well-rounded auditory feedback thanks to the specific properties of their respective materials. The combination of a crisp release sound from the polycarbonate and the fuller bottom-out sound from the nylon offers a richly layered typing experience that satisfies diverse user preferences.
Weight
The HMX Gravel linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, meaning users will experience similar resistance when initiating a keystroke. This aspect makes them both suitable for long typing sessions, appealing to those who prefer lighter switches. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Gravel has a force of 50 grams, while the Sea Salt Lemon is slightly heavier at 53 grams. This difference in bottom out force indicates that the Sea Salt Lemon offers a more substantial feel when fully pressed down, which could be preferable for users seeking a more pronounced tactile experience. Ultimately, while both switches share the same actuation force, the HMX Gravel is lighter overall, making it ideal for extended use, whereas the KTT Sea Salt Lemon caters to those who appreciate a heftier push feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Gravel linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The HMX Gravel features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the KTT Sea Salt Lemon has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Sea Salt Lemon offers a deeper keystroke, which can provide a more tactile response for users who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. On the other hand, the Gravel's shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm makes it a suitable option for those seeking quicker responsiveness, which is often favored by gamers. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences; if you favor speed and a less abrupt action, the Gravel would be the ideal pick, whereas if you appreciate a more pronounced depth in your keystrokes, the Sea Salt Lemon would be the better option.
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 Sea Salt Lemon comes in at $2.80 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 linear switch has not been specifically characterized, which leaves some unknowns in that area. In contrast, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch is noted for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile. The low-pitched quality provides a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, making it suitable for a peaceful typing environment, whereas the neutral aspect grants a balanced auditory experience that is approachable for both beginners and experienced users. This means that while the Gravel's sound may vary depending on external factors like keycaps and the keyboard frame, the Sea Salt Lemon offers a consistent auditory experience.
Regarding the tactile feel, the HMX Gravel switch is highly praised for its exceptional smoothness and refined typing experience. It features a medium-light actuation force that allows for a responsive and effortless typing experience while maintaining a notably smooth feel. The KTT Sea Salt Lemon, although less specifically detailed, is characterized by a mild feel, making it a gentle and approachable typing switch. This means while it may not have the same level of smoothness attributed to the Gravel, it still provides a comfortable experience that remains accessible for a wide range of users.
In conclusion, both the HMX Gravel and KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switches offer unique yet appealing qualities. The Gravel excels in terms of its smoothness and lighter actuation force, leading to an effortless typing experience. Meanwhile, the Sea Salt Lemon emphasizes a gentle feel combined with a pleasant and mellow sound profile. If you prioritize a smooth typing experience, the Gravel is likely to be a standout option, while the Sea Salt Lemon is a reliable choice for those who appreciate a balanced auditory experience and moderate feel. Ultimately, whichever switch you choose, you can expect a satisfactory typing experience suited to your preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, selecting between the HMX Gravel linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and the typing experience you seek. If you favor a lighter bottom-out force for an effortless and smooth typing experience, the Gravel switch is an excellent choice. Its refined feel can be particularly appealing for extended typing sessions or gaming, allowing for quick keystrokes without straining your fingers. On the other hand, if you appreciate a slightly firmer bottom-out force and a buttery smoothness, the Sea Salt Lemon may suit you better. Its progressive spring design and neutral sound profile make it versatile for various environments, whether at home or in a professional setting. Overall, if you lean towards a lighter actuation with standout smoothness, gravitate towards the Gravel, whereas if you prefer a balanced feel with a mild performance, go for the Sea Salt Lemon. Both switches offer distinct advantages, so it ultimately comes down to what aligns best with your typing style and environment.
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