KTT Laurel vs. HMX Sunset Gleam

Overview

When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, two notable options to consider are the KTT Laurel and the HMX Sunset Gleam, both linear switches renowned for their distinct characteristics. The KTT Laurel is celebrated for its medium-light feel, offering a responsive typing experience thanks to its short travel and long pole design, all housed in full POM material. This switch not only provides a comfortable typing experience but also produces a subtly low-pitched sound profile that is often described as snappy. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam, also affectionately known as the Duck Duck switch, features a carefully crafted blend of materials that deliver a satisfying clack at top-out while benefiting from HMX's renowned factory lubrication. Though both switches cater to those who prefer a smooth, linear tactile response, their auditory feedback and overall typing experience diverge significantly. Choosing between the KTT Laurel's snappy low pitch and the satisfying clack of the Sunset Gleam ultimately depends on personal preference. 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 Laurel Linear

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$4.42

$3.95 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The KTT Laurel and HMX Sunset Gleam switches stand apart in terms of their top housing materials, which significantly influences their acoustic properties. The Laurel features a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing, revered for its ability to produce a unique sound profile that leans towards muted, deep tones. This listening experience creates a warm feel when typing, appealing to users who prefer a less aggressive auditory feedback. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam opts for a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its ability to deliver sharper and crisper sound profiles. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate results in a more resonant experience, making it an excellent choice for those who favor a brighter, more pronounced sound, especially when RGB lighting is showcased.

Examining the bottom housing reveals that while both switches aim for quality outputs, they achieve their sound characteristics through different materials. The KTT Laurel utilizes a POM bottom housing, which complements its top housing by enhancing the deeper, more muted sound profile. This creates a cohesive auditory experience that leans towards warmth. The HMX Sunset Gleam, however, introduces a nylon bottom housing, a material historically recognized for its ability to absorb sound. This results in a rounded, fuller sound profile. Consequently, while both switches evoke pleasant auditory sensations, their approaches offer distinctive tactile and sounding experiences based on the interplay between the bottom housing's properties and the typing environment.

Overall, while the KTT Laurel and HMX Sunset Gleam utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings, the fundamental acoustic principles guiding their designs lead to unique yet complementary outcomes. Users who prioritize a deeper, more muted sound will favor the Laurel, while those who enjoy a sharper auditory experience will be drawn to the Sunset Gleam. However, both designs showcase how carefully selected materials can create an optimal auditory experience, despite differing approaches. Ultimately, the combination of top and bottom housing materials can work in harmony to produce a well-rounded typing experience, whether each component leans towards warmth or brightness.

Weight

When comparing the KTT Laurel linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, both options offer lightweight specifications that cater to users who prefer a softer typing experience. The Laurel has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Sunset Gleam features a slightly lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This makes the Sunset Gleam the lighter option overall, providing a smoother keystroke action than the Laurel. Despite their slight differences in force, both switches are designed to deliver a comfortable typing experience suited for extended use, whether for work or gaming. While the differences in actuation and bottom out force are minimal, users can expect a similarly responsive performance from both switches, though those who favor a slightly more substantial feel may gravitate towards the KTT Laurel.

Travel distance

Both the KTT Laurel and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switches feature an identical travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel from the top to the bottom, resulting in a consistent tactile experience. Since both switches share this travel distance, users can expect similarly responsive action, making them interchangeable in applications where travel distance is a crucial factor.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound characteristics of the KTT Laurel and the HMX Sunset Gleam switches, the Laurel is noted for its subtly low-pitched sound profile, delivering a bass-heavy and mellow tone that can create a more laid-back typing experience. In contrast, the sound profile of the Sunset Gleam is not explicitly detailed, but it is noted to provide a subtle top-out and a satisfying clack. This suggests that while the Laurel provides a more subdued auditory experience, the Sunset Gleam may introduce a bit more liveliness and a distinct auditory feedback during keypresses, potentially offering a contrast that suits different preferences even if its precise tonal quality remains unspecified.

Evaluating the feel of these switches reveals that the KTT Laurel is characterized by its snappy responsiveness, attributed to its medium-light actuation force and longer design features that enhance the typing experience. This gives the Laurel a lively and engaging feel when typing. While the HMX Sunset Gleam's tactile feedback isn't expressly described, the inclusion of factory lube indicates a smooth actuation process that may complement the overall typing experience. Without further specifics on the Sunset Gleam's tactile response, it remains unclear how it matches up against the Laurel in terms of tactile feedback and overall typing engagement.

In summary, the KTT Laurel linear switch excels with its low-pitched sound and snappy feel, providing an enjoyable typing experience that emphasizes comfort and responsiveness. The HMX Sunset Gleam, on the other hand, may offer a contrasting auditory experience with its subtle clack and smooth operation attributed to its factory lube, but specific details on its feel are not available. While the sound and feel of these switches cater to slightly different preferences, both can deliver satisfying typing experiences with their respective qualities.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the KTT Laurel and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switches, your choice ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and intended usage. If you value a snappy, responsive feel in your typing experience along with a low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Laurel is an excellent option, especially for general use or gaming, where quick reactions are beneficial. Its slightly higher bottom-out force of 50 grams provides a tactile feedback that many users appreciate, making it a versatile choice for both typing and gaming. On the other hand, if you're looking for a switch that combines responsiveness with a more satisfying acoustic experience, the HMX Sunset Gleam could be the way to go. This switch's design promotes a subtle top-out sound and factory lubrication contributes to a smooth key press that can enhance your overall typing experience, particularly for long typing sessions or creative work. Both switches have their merits, so consider what qualities are most important to you for your specific needs.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Laurel Linear

$4.42

$3.95 per 10

Learn more

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more