HMX Hibiscus vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the HMX Hibiscus and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Hibiscus and KTT Phalaenopsis offer two distinctly satisfying experiences that cater to different typing preferences. The HMX Hibiscus, a linear switch, is celebrated for its unmatched smoothness and an exceptionally light actuation force that makes every keystroke feel nearly effortless. Its clacky and crispy sound signature adds an auditory enjoyment that many typists and gamers crave. In contrast, the KTT Phalaenopsis, a tactile switch, provides a tactile bump at a moderate 50g actuation force, which gives users a clear indication of key actuation while minimizing finger fatigue, making it perfect for long typing sessions. Its translucent aesthetic enhances the visual appeal of any keyboard setup, while its bassy, stepped sound profile creates a more grounded acoustic experience. Both switches have their own unique strengths—whether you prioritize the seamlessness of linear switches or the tactile feedback of tactile switches. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The HMX Hibiscus and KTT Phalaenopsis feature distinctly different materials in their top housings, which plays a significant role in shaping their sound profiles. The Hibiscus utilizes a nylon top housing, known for its softer composition that absorbs sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller acoustic experience. This contrasts sharply with the Phalaenopsis, which employs a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound. The translucency of polycarbonate also enhances the aesthetic appeal, particularly when used with RGB lighting, giving the Phalaenopsis an edge in visual customization while fostering a more resonant and clear sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, both switches exhibit a parallelism in their material choices, as the Hibiscus features a nylon bottom housing, matching its top. This consistency allows for a cohesive sound profile, reinforcing its deeper tones. Conversely, the Phalaenopsis incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing, which aligns with its top material to amplify its crisp sound characteristics. The differing bottom housings mean that the Hibiscus will deliver a fuller sound at the bottom-out, while the Phalaenopsis's crispness will be pronounced in the same context. The impact of press and release mechanics variedly reflects each switch's tonal qualities, with nylon providing warmth and polycarbonate enhancing presence.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the HMX Hibiscus and KTT Phalaenopsis create distinct auditory experiences reflective of their design choices. While the Hibiscus maintains a deep and rounded sound profile due to its consistent use of nylon, the Phalaenopsis capitalizes on clarity and brightness through its dual polycarbonate construction. If both switches were to incorporate similar designs using either material throughout, the sound profiles would likely converge, yielding comparable acoustic results. Regardless, the unique interplay of materials adds richness to each switch's character, making them appealing to different user preferences.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Hibiscus linear switch to the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, there are some interesting distinctions in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Hibiscus has a slightly higher actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Phalaenopsis, which has an actuation force of 37 grams. This means that the Hibiscus will require a bit more pressure to trigger a keystroke, offering a marginally more substantial feel for those who prefer a firmer response. However, both switches exhibit light overall forces, which can be advantageous for extended typing sessions or gaming. In terms of bottom out forces, the Hibiscus has a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Phalaenopsis has a slightly higher bottom out force of 50 grams. Therefore, while the Hibiscus is the heavier option regarding actuation, the Phalaenopsis presents itself as the heavier switch for bottoming out. Both switches are designed to deliver a comfortable typing experience, but the choice ultimately depends on whether a user prefers a lighter actuation with a more substantial bottom feel or a balanced approach to both metrics.
Travel distance
The HMX Hibiscus linear switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Hibiscus the shorter option, providing a more responsive feel that gamers might prefer for quicker keystrokes. In contrast, the Phalaenopsis offers a longer travel distance, which can provide a more pronounced tactile feedback and a sense of depth that some users enjoy. Although 4 mm is considered a traditional travel distance, the Hibiscus's shorter design caters well to those seeking speed and efficiency. Thus, choosing between these two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference for either responsiveness or comfortable depth.
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 Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis 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 linear switches deliver a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy auditory experience. This sound signature tends to capture the attention of users who appreciate a more vibrant and lively sound when typing. In contrast, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switches provide a deeper auditory experience with their bassy and thocky characteristics. The thocky sound is notably rich, resembling the comforting thud of a well-made switch, which contrasts against the Hibiscus’ crispness. It's important to note that the overall sound quality of these switches can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard build and the type of keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the HMX Hibiscus switches excel in providing an ultra-smooth typing experience, which can be particularly satisfying for users who prioritize fluid motion in their keystrokes. This smoothness also contributes to a seamless experience while typing or gaming. The KTT Phalaenopsis, on the other hand, features a stepped tactile profile that offers a discernible bump for each keystroke. This tactile feedback is designed to be mild compared to more hypertactile options, making it ideal for those who enjoy feeling a clear distinction between presses without being overwhelmed by too much resistance.
In conclusion, while the HMX Hibiscus and KTT Phalaenopsis switches each have their unique sound and feel profiles, they cater to different preferences. The Hibiscus offers a lively and smooth typing experience with a crispy sound, while the Phalaenopsis provides a satisfying tactile bump characterized by a rich, thocky sound. Users looking for an engaging typing experience should consider their personal preferences for sound and feel, as both switches provide pleasurable yet distinct experiences.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and style. If you seek an ultra-smooth, seamless experience with a light actuation force for rapid typing and a satisfying clacky sound profile, the HMX Hibiscus is your ideal match. It's fantastic for those who primarily engage in gaming or fast-paced typing tasks, where fluidity and speed are paramount. On the other hand, if you prefer tactile feedback that offers a discernible bump with each keystroke, making your typing experience delightful and engaging, then the KTT Phalaenopsis is the way to go. It excels in comfort, reducing finger fatigue with its remarkably light actuation while providing a deeper, richer sound profile that is both bassy and thocky. Additionally, if you enjoy a more pronounced two-stage feel with consistent feedback to guide your typing, the gently stepped tactile nature of the Phalaenopsis switches will cater to your preferences beautifully. In summary, both switches have distinct characteristics that appeal to different aspects of typing; it’s all about what brings you the most satisfaction and productivity at your keyboard.
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