HMX Hibiscus vs. KTT Orange
An in-depth look at the HMX Hibiscus and the KTT Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Hibiscus and KTT Orange stand out as two compelling linear options, each offering unique attributes for different typing preferences. The HMX Hibiscus is celebrated for its ultra-light actuation force and a typing experience characterized by a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, making it an excellent choice for those who crave tactile feedback and a lively auditory experience. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switches are designed to provide a bouncy feel thanks to their 22mm long spring, complemented by a frictionless key travel and a low-pitched sound profile. This makes them ideal for users seeking a smooth and refined typing sensation without unnecessary noise. While both switches promise enjoyable experiences, one leans towards a more vibrant feedback, while the other emphasizes smoothness and subtlety. 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
42g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T3
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Hibiscus and the KTT Orange switches highlight a notable contrast in sound profiles and tactile experiences, primarily due to the choice of plastics used in their construction. The Hibiscus features a nylon top housing, which instills a deeper and fuller sound when typing. This is attributable to nylon's softer and more absorbent properties, allowing it to dampen sound and create a rounded sound profile. In contrast, the KTT Orange utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that generates a sharper and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate's stiffer nature allows for clearer resonance, leading to a more pronounced acoustic response when keys are released. Therefore, while the Hibiscus provides a warmer typing experience, the KTT Orange delivers a bright and defined auditory feedback.
Examining the bottom housing of these two switches presents a similar divergence in sound qualities. The Hibiscus again employs nylon, which enhances the deeper tones of the switch, ensuring that the bottom-out experience feels full-bodied and rich. Conversely, the KTT Orange's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains its crisp sound, contributing to a brighter auditory experience during bottoming out. This distinction means that the Hibiscus will offer a subdued yet satisfying tactile response, while the Orange provides a punchier, more immediate feedback. Aesthetically, the clear nature of the polycarbonate in the Orange offers an additional advantage for users seeking RGB lighting effects, whereas the nylon housing of the Hibiscus provides a more muted visual that pairs harmoniously with colorless lighting.
Ultimately, even though the HMX Hibiscus and KTT Orange utilize different materials for their housings, one can achieve a balance in sound characteristics and aesthetics through thoughtful matching of top and bottom housings. When pressing either switch, the sound and tactile feedback will be affected by the predominant material in use. Therefore, if a user prefers the distinctive sound qualities of nylon but appreciates the enhanced transparency of polycarbonate for RGB effects, they could consider mixing housings, ensuring that the overall typing experience takes advantage of both materials' unique properties. This approach would allow individuals to fine-tune their keyboard experience precisely to their preferences, regardless of the specific switch used.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, significant differences in their actuation and bottom-out forces emerge, affecting the typing experience. The Hibiscus features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it well-suited for extended typing sessions due to its ease of pressing. In contrast, the KTT Orange has a slightly heavier actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, offering a more substantial feel with each keystroke. This indicates that while the Hibiscus is optimal for those who prefer a lighter touch, the Orange switch caters to users who enjoy a firmer, more resistant feel. Ultimately, users looking for a lighter and more agile typing experience might choose the Hibiscus, while those who appreciate a firmer push should opt for the KTT Orange.
Travel distance
The HMX Hibiscus and KTT Orange linear switches both feature an identical travel distance of 3.5 mm, meaning that users will experience the same distance when pressing these keys down. This similarity in travel distance ensures that both switches provide a comparable tactile experience, making them equally suitable for users who prefer consistent keypress feedback. As both switches share this measurement, users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and actuation, enhancing their typing or gaming experience regardless of the specific choice between the Hibiscus and the Orange switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Hibiscus has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hibiscus for $2.99.
The KTT Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $4.15.
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 Hibiscus switches produce a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy tonality, which can create an engaging auditory experience that many typists and gamers appreciate. In contrast, the KTT Orange switches have a low-pitched sound profile, characterized by a more mellow and bass-heavy tone. While the Hibiscus boasts an engaging and lively sound, the Orange provides a quieter and more subdued auditory experience. Ultimately, the auditory character of each switch will also be influenced by the keyboard's design, type of keycaps, and the acoustic environment in which they are used.
Regarding the feel of these switches, the HMX Hibiscus is regarded for its unparalleled smoothness, offering a pristine typing experience, although specifics about the exact tactile sensation are less detailed. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switches are known for their bouncy feel, which provides a delightful spring-like response upon actuation. Additionally, these switches are designed to minimize friction, offering a slick and fluid key travel that enhances the overall typing experience. For those who prioritize a lively and responsive touch, the KTT Orange’s bouncy and frictionless qualities stand out, though those seeking smoothness may find satisfaction in both options.
In summary, both the HMX Hibiscus and KTT Orange linear switches offer unique attributes catering to different typing preferences. The Hibiscus is celebrated for its lively and clacky sound along with its smoothness, while the KTT Orange excels in providing a low-pitched sound and a bouncy, frictionless feel. If you appreciate a lively typing experience with crisp auditory feedback, the Hibiscus might be your choice. However, if you prefer a smoother, quieter typing experience with a spring-like feel, the KTT Orange could be more suitable. Regardless of your choice, both switches promise a satisfying mechanical feel, just with distinct sonic and tactile characteristics.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, consider your typing preferences and the overall experience you desire. If you lean towards a lightweight switch that excels in smoothness combined with a satisfying, clacky sound, the Hibiscus is an ideal choice. Its low actuation force makes it particularly well-suited for rapid typing and those who enjoy a more responsive key feel, perfect for both gaming and regular typing. Conversely, if you prefer a bouncy feedback with a more solid feel beneath your fingers, the KTT Orange's medium-light bottom-out force may cater better to your needs. Its long spring design not only enhances the typing experience with a lively rebound but also guarantees a frictionless journey on keypresses, making it excellent for extended typing sessions where comfort and reduced fatigue are essential. Ultimately, your selection should be based on whether you prioritize an ultra-light and smooth actuation like the Hibiscus or a more bouncy and resilient feedback like the Orange.
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