HMX Gravel vs. TTC Yunhai
An in-depth look at the HMX Gravel and the TTC Yunhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing their options between popular choices like the HMX Gravel and the TTC Yunhai, both of which are linear switches designed to provide a smooth typing experience. The HMX Gravel is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness and refined feel, featuring a medium-light actuation force that offers a responsive typing experience, ideal for those who enjoy a balance of comfort and efficiency. On the other hand, the TTC Yunhai distinguishes itself with a unique, deep sound profile and an incredibly light actuation force, making it a sublime choice for typists who prefer a gentle touch while typing. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Gravel appealing to those seeking a buttery smooth stroke and the Yunhai attracting users who value auditory feedback along with a feather-light feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Gravel and the TTC Yunhai switches utilize distinct materials for their top housings, leading to contrasting sound profiles during use. The Gravel features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its rigidity and translucence, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This property is advantageous for users who appreciate clarity in their typing experience, especially when utilizing RGB lighting, as the polycarbonate allows light to shine through effectively. In contrast, the Yunhai opts for nylon as its top housing material. This choice brings forth a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. Consequently, while both switches may function effectively, the Gravel is better suited for those who prefer bright, resinous sounds, whereas the Yunhai offers a warmer, more subdued feedback.
When examining the bottom housing, both the Gravel and Yunhai utilize nylon, a material celebrated for its sound-absorbing qualities. This aspect creates a cohesive audio experience, as the deeper, fuller sound profile associated with nylon contributes significantly to the overall feel and sound when the switches reach the bottom. In both cases, users will notice a similar tactile experience, characterized by a softened bottom-out sound. As the bottom housing for both switches is identical in material, it ensures that the overall auditory experience remains consistent, despite the differences in the top housing. For aficionados seeking a balanced sound profile, this shared nylon bottom housing creates alignment in performance, ensuring satisfying feedback during usage.
By considering how the differing top housing materials affect the overall typist experience, one can appreciate the nuanced interactions within each switch. The Gravel's higher-pitched sound from the polycarbonate top may appeal to gamers or typists looking for precision and clarity. Meanwhile, users of the Yunhai may find solace in the warmer tones that result from its nylon top and bottom combination. Ultimately, for those who value sound profile aesthetics, understanding the impact of each housing material enables informed decisions, ensuring a personalized typing experience regardless of the specific switch chosen. Whether one leans towards the Gravel's bright resonance or the Yunhai's warm depth, both designs successfully cater to different auditory preferences.
Weight
The HMX Gravel linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch both feature relatively light characteristics, making them suitable choices for long typing sessions and gaming. The Gravel has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Yunhai boasts an even lighter actuation force of 42 grams, with the same bottom out force of 50 grams. This slight difference in actuation force suggests that users who prefer a lighter touch may find the Yunhai a more comfortable option. Both switches bottom out at the same 50 grams, indicating that the experience of bottoming out will feel consistent between the two, despite the Gravel's heavier actuation force. Ultimately, for users who value a light typing experience, the Yunhai would be the better choice due to its lower actuation force, while the Gravel offers a slightly stronger push feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Gravel linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, it’s clear that there is a slight difference between the two. The Gravel has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Yunhai measures at 3.6 mm. This makes the Gravel the shorter option, providing a faster response time that might appeal to gamers seeking quicker actuation. Conversely, the Yunhai, with its longer travel distance, may be preferred by those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience and feel a greater depth when pressing the keys. Although the travel distances are close, choosing the Gravel can lead to a more responsive feel, while the Yunhai might offer a more satisfactory depth for users who prefer that sensation.
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 TTC Yunhai has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yunhai for $5.99.
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
In terms of sound, the HMX Gravel switch produces a sound profile that is notably smooth and subdued, enhancing its appeal for those who favor a quieter typing experience. Its refined acoustics create a pleasant ambiance that doesn’t overly intrude during use. Conversely, the TTC Yunhai switch is characterized by a deep, rounded sound that offers a more resonant acoustic feedback. This distinctive sound profile can be particularly satisfying for typists who appreciate a more pronounced auditory experience while typing. Overall, while the Gravel prioritizes a quieter operation, the Yunhai caters to those who enjoy a more impactful sound with each keystroke.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Gravel switch stands out for its exceptional smoothness and a medium-light actuation force that leans slightly towards the lighter side. This combination allows for a responsive and effortless typing experience, providing a pleasing tactile sensation with each keypress. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai switch is designed with an incredibly light actuation force, which contributes to a gentle and effortless feel while typing. This makes it suitable for users who may prefer a switch that requires less effort to press down, enhancing comfort during prolonged typing sessions. Both switches offer a smooth experience but cater to different preferences in terms of actuation weight.
In conclusion, both the HMX Gravel and TTC Yunhai linear switches offer a delightful typing experience, though they cater to slightly different auditory and tactile preferences. The Gravel leans towards a quieter and smoother operation, while the Yunhai provides a deeper sound coupled with an incredibly light touch. Ultimately, either choice can lead to a satisfying typing experience, allowing users to select based on whether they prioritize sound or a specific actuation force. Regardless of the choice made, both switches present excellent options for those entering the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Gravel linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience with a medium-light actuation force, the Gravel is your ideal option. Its lighter feel allows for quick and effortless keystrokes, making it a great choice if you spend extended hours typing or gaming and desire a more responsive touch. Conversely, if you are drawn to a unique auditory experience, the Yunhai offers a deep, rounded sound profile that enhances an otherwise gentle typing experience. Its incredibly light actuation force coupled with a satisfying auditory feedback makes the Yunhai a great choice for those who appreciate a softer, more subtle feel. In essence, if smoothness and responsiveness is what you seek, go for the Gravel; but if a lovely sound and a lightweight touch appeals to you more, the Yunhai is your pick.
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