KTT Kang White vs. HMX SU

Overview

When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing multiple options to match their typing preferences. The KTT Kang White and the HMX SU are both linear switches that cater to different aspects of the typing experience. The Kang White, known for its poppy linear feel and dazzling typing sound, excels in delivering an exceptionally smooth experience thanks to its self-lubricating material. With a low-pitched sound, it appeals to users who appreciate both performance and acoustics. On the other hand, the HMX SU features a robust PA12 housing and a T5 stem, which contribute to its subtle yet relatively deep sound profile. This switch might be a suitable choice for users seeking durability and a different auditory sensation compared to the Kang White. Both switches have their unique attributes, making them appealing for different types of users; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

KTT Kang White Linear

HMX SU Linear

$1.99 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Kang White and the HMX SU, a striking contrast emerges between the top housings of the two switches. The KTT Kang White features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its ability to create a sharper and crisper sound profile. This is largely due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, allowing for a more resonant sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate makes it an excellent choice for users looking to enhance their RGB lighting effects, as the light can pass through effectively, illuminating the switch beautifully. In contrast, the HMX SU opts for a nylon top housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to the softer nature of nylon. This material absorbs sound more efficiently, resulting in a rounder and less pronounced tonal quality compared to polycarbonate. This difference in sound characteristics is a fundamental aspect of their design, catering to different preferences in typing experience.

In terms of bottom housings, both switches utilize nylon materials, leading to a similarity in the sound quality attributed to this component. Both KTT Kang White and HMX SU switches benefit from nylon's capacity to soften sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. As the bottom housing plays a significant role in the feel and sound when a key is bottomed out, the shared nylon material ensures a consistent typing experience in this respect. Regardless of the differences in their top housings, both switches will provide a noticeable and satisfying feedback when pressed, driven by the inherent qualities of nylon. This establishes a foundation for a unified sound experience in typing that complements the more distinctive tonal differences introduced by their respective top housings.

Combining the characteristics of both top and bottom housings ultimately influences the overall acoustic and tactile experience. The KTT Kang White's polycarbonate top housing injects a brighter, more vibrant sound upon release, while its nylon bottom housing contributes a warm, rounded sound when the key is pressed. Conversely, the HMX SU benefits from a more muted sound signature throughout the keypress due to its fully nylon construction. When considering the use of RGB lighting, the Kang White provides additional visual appeal due to the translucent nature of its top housing, whereas the SU offers a more subdued aesthetic. Ultimately, while both switches leverage the well-known properties of nylon for their bottom housings, their differing top materials lead to unique sound profiles that can cater to a variety of user preferences.

Weight

The KTT Kang White linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch exhibit some similarities as well as differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, meaning users will experience similar resistance when initiating a keystroke. However, the bottom out force diverges, with the Kang White requiring a heavier 58 grams to bottom out compared to the lighter 50 grams of the HMX SU. This difference indicates that while both switches provide a consistent feel during actuation, the Kang White will feel more substantial and may be more suited for those who prefer a firmer typing experience. In contrast, the HMX SU, being lighter in terms of its bottom out force, may allow for longer typing sessions with less strain, making it an excellent choice for users who prioritize comfort and ease of use. Therefore, while both switches offer a similar actuation feel, the Kang White is the heavier option, which could detract from comfort over extended use, while the HMX SU is notably the lighter choice, appealing to those who favor a more effortless typing experience.

Travel distance

The KTT Kang White linear switch boasts a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX SU linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Kang White offers a more pronounced feel when pressing down, appealing to those who prefer a deeper, more substantial key press. On the other hand, the HMX SU, with its shorter 3.6 mm travel distance, caters to users who favor a snappier response, which is particularly advantageous for gamers seeking quicker actuation. Therefore, if you prioritize a softer landing and a more robust typing experience, the Kang White would be the preferable choice. Conversely, for those who enjoy faster response times and find shorter distances more comfortable, the HMX SU presents an attractive option. In summary, the Kang White's 4 mm travel distance makes it the longer option, while the HMX SU's 3.6 mm travel distance stands as the shorter choice.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The KTT Kang White linear switch delivers a captivating auditory experience characterized by its dazzling sound, which creates an enticing environment while typing. This sound profile is prominently low-pitched, generating a bass-heavy and mellow tone that many users find pleasing. The HMX SU linear switch, on the other hand, features a subtle and relatively deep sound profile thanks to its full PA12 housing and T5 stem. This combination may not offer the same level of vibrant sound as the Kang White but provides a more subdued auditory backdrop that some users might prefer for a quieter typing experience. Ultimately, both switches produce sounds that can be influenced by factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycap materials, leading to a degree of variability in the overall auditory experience.

When it comes to the feel of these switches, the KTT Kang White is known for an unparalleled smoothness attributed to its self-lubricating materials, making it a delight to type on. The HMX SU linear switch, while not explicitly described, suggests a different tactile sensation due to its unique construction. This difference in materials and design leads to the potential for distinct typing experiences where the Kang White’s smoothness may stand out against the unknown characteristics of the SU switch.

In conclusion, both the KTT Kang White and HMX SU linear switches offer unique qualities that appeal to different preferences. The Kang White shines with its low-pitched, vibrant sound and silky smooth feel, making it ideal for those seeking an expressive typing experience. The HMX SU, while offering a more subtle and deep sound profile, caters to users who may prefer a quieter environment. Depending on individual tastes, both switches can provide satisfying results, yet they embody different philosophies in sound and feel that can significantly impact your typing experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, when choosing between the KTT Kang White linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, consider your personal typing preferences and the overall experience you desire. If you appreciate a bit more resistance in your keystrokes and enjoy a smooth, low-pitched typing sound, the Kang White switch with its 58-gram bottom-out force may be the optimal choice for you. This switch excels in providing a poppy, engaging feel that enhances the tactile feedback during intense typing sessions or gaming. However, if you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of 50 grams, the HMX SU switch might be the better option for you, particularly if you like a subtler, deeper sound profile paired with an elegant design and smoothness thanks to its PA12 housing and T5 stem. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your needs for both comfort and auditory satisfaction while typing or gaming.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Kang White Linear

$1.99 per 10

Learn more

HMX SU Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more