HMX Hibiscus vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the HMX Hibiscus and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the HMX Hibiscus and the KTT Strawberry provides a fascinating exploration of tactile experiences. The HMX Hibiscus switches are renowned for their ultra-light actuation force, making them ideal for those who crave a smooth, feather-light typing feel. With a unique sound signature described as clacky and poppy, they offer an auditory delight that many users find satisfying. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switches shine with their sleek pink and clear housings, delivering a frictionless, buttery actuation that ensures comfortable typing and dependable performance. Both switches cater to different preferences: the Hibiscus appeals to those prioritizing a lively auditory experience and ultra-responsive keystrokes, while the Strawberry is perfect for users seeking a polished and silky typing sensation. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Hibiscus and the KTT Strawberry, we see a distinct contrast between the two. The Hibiscus employs nylon for both its top and bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for its softer plastic properties, which absorb sound more effectively than harder materials, resulting in a more muted auditory experience. In contrast, the KTT Strawberry utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, leading to a sharper and crisper sound profile. This stiffer plastic enhances resonance and clarity, making every keystroke feel more dynamic. Therefore, while both switches offer unique sound characteristics, one is optimized for a warmer tone while the other leans toward bright and clear audibility.
Despite the fundamental differences in material, both switches share the characteristic of providing distinct auditory feedback based on their housing compositions. The Hibiscus, with its nylon construction, produces a rounder sound that many users might find soothing and satisfying, particularly for longer typing sessions. In contrast, the KTT Strawberry's polycarbonate housing provides a more lively and pronounced sound, which could appeal to users who favor a more tactile and reactive experience when typing or gaming. Though the materials diverge significantly, the overall quality of the typing experience remains high in both cases, catering to different user preferences.
Additionally, the impact of material choice stretches beyond sound alone to affect the overall feel of the switch. While the Hibiscus uses its nylon housings to create a subdued and plush tactile experience when bottoming out, the KTT Strawberry’s polycarbonate housing allows for a more pronounced feedback upon key release, enhancing responsiveness. As such, users can select between these switches based on their personal preferences for sound and tactile feedback. Despite their differing materials leading to opposite sound profiles, both the Hibiscus and Strawberry can deliver satisfying performance, showcasing how the choice of housing material plays a crucial role in the ergonomic experience of using mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Hibiscus and KTT Strawberry linear switches, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Hibiscus features a light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a lighter feel, allowing for prolonged typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Strawberry switch has an actuation force of 43 grams, slightly heavier than the Hibiscus, and a much firmer bottom out force of 62 grams. This heavier bottom out may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience, providing tactile feedback that some find preferable. Therefore, while both switches are close in actuation force, the Hibiscus is the lighter option overall, especially when considering its significantly lower bottom out force compared to the Strawberry.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Hibiscus and KTT Strawberry linear switches, there is a notable difference that caters to varying preferences among users. The Hibiscus switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Strawberry switch has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Hibiscus is the shorter option, which may be appealing for gamers or those who prefer quicker response times, as shorter travel distances can enhance speed and efficiency. On the other hand, the Strawberry, with its greater travel distance, offers a more pronounced feel, which some users might find more satisfying and less abrupt. Ultimately, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Hibiscus would be the better choice; however, if you enjoy a more substantial keystroke depth, the Strawberry would likely suit your needs better.
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 Strawberry comes in at $4.91 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 Hibiscus switch stands out with a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. This vibrant auditory feedback contributes to an engaging typing experience that many find appealing. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch produces a low-pitched sound characterized by a mellow and bass-heavy tone, which may offer a more subdued auditory experience. While both switches provide distinct sound profiles, the Hibiscus leans towards a more lively and crisp sound, whereas the Strawberry’s low-pitched nature brings a gentler ambiance to the keyboard experience.
In terms of feel, the HMX Hibiscus is celebrated for its unparalleled smoothness, resulting in a pristine typing experience. While specifics on its tactile feedback are sparse, it's clear that the Hibiscus emphasizes a refined feel. The KTT Strawberry, however, boasts a variety of descriptors including frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished. This suggests that the Strawberry offers an exceptionally smooth, effortless actuation with virtually no resistance, creating a fluid and seamless typing sensation. Therefore, while both switches emphasize a smooth typing experience, the Strawberry goes further by minimizing friction to create what many users would describe as a luxurious typing feel.
In summary, the HMX Hibiscus and KTT Strawberry switches offer unique auditory and tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. The Hibiscus delivers a lively sound signature with an emphasis on smoothness, while the Strawberry combines a low-pitched sound with a multitude of descriptors that highlight its effortless and silky actuation. If smoothness and an engaging sonic profile are what you're after, both switches can provide satisfying results — the Hibiscus with its crisp sound and refined feel, and the Strawberry with its smooth, frictionless typing experience. Selecting between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference regarding the auditory and tactile experience you desire from your mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Hibiscus and KTT Strawberry linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you favor a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of just 48 grams—perfect for fast-paced typing or gaming where speed is crucial—the Hibiscus is an excellent choice. Its captivating clacky sound and unparalleled smoothness can enhance your overall typing experience, making it ideal for those who enjoy a lively auditory feedback alongside a swift keystroke. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial feel with a medium bottom-out force of 62 grams, the KTT Strawberry offers a more controlled typing experience that may be better suited for longer typing sessions or precise input tasks. The low-pitched, buttery sound profile contributes to a refined atmosphere while its frictionless and silky feel ensures a comfortable typing experience. In summary, choose the Hibiscus for a lightweight, vibrant touch, and opt for the Strawberry when you desire a robust, reliable performance with an elegant smoothness.
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