KTT Lightning vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the KTT Lightning and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When searching for the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Lightning and the HMX SU serve as compelling options, each catering to different preferences and play styles. The KTT Lightning is celebrated for its speed, making it a top choice for gamers where every millisecond counts; its slick type feel and clacky sound profile can add an engaging auditory element to every keystroke. On the other hand, the HMX SU appeals to users seeking a more understated experience, characterized by its deep and subtle sound profile. With a full PA12 housing and T5 stem, this switch offers a more refined typing feel that may resonate better with those who prioritize a quiet workspace. Both switches have merits that make them desirable, depending on your needs—whether it's the exhilarating feedback of the Lightning or the smooth, subdued experience of the SU. 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T5
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Lightning and the HMX SU switches, a significant difference is noted in the composition of their top housings. The KTT Lightning features a polycarbonate top housing known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is largely attributed to polycarbonate's stiffer structure, which allows for a more resonant sound. In contrast, the HMX SU utilizes a nylon top housing, a classic choice that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is inherently a softer plastic, effectively absorbing sound and resulting in a duller, rounder audio quality. The divergence in materials suggests that while both switches will create different auditory experiences, their respective designs reflect distinct philosophies in switch sound tuning.
However, both the KTT Lightning and HMX SU share nylon as the material for their bottom housings. This commonality ensures that the typing experience retains a level of consistency in sound quality, as both switches will exhibit a deeper and fuller sound profile when the switch bottoms out. The nylon bottom effectively absorbs sound, leading to a similar acoustic signature despite the contrasting top materials. This shared element means that while the tactile and auditory feedback varies during key release, the impact at the moment of bottoming out remains comparable between the two switches.
Ultimately, the interplay between the housing materials significantly shapes the overall typing experience of each switch. The KTT Lightning's polycarbonate top contributes to a bright release sound, while the HMX SU’s nylon top emphasizes a warmer exit tone. However, with both switches employing nylon for their bottom housings, there is a noticeable continuity in how they respond under pressure. This means users can expect to experience the cushioned sound signature when bottoming out similar to both switches, while the differences in the top housing materials lend each switch a unique character, catering to distinct preferences in sound profile and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Lightning linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, both show light specifications in terms of force. The KTT Lightning switch has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the HMX SU switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams, although it shares the same bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the KTT Lightning is the lighter option, making it potentially more suitable for those who prefer longer typing sessions or extended gaming due to less fatigue from pressing down on the keys. In contrast, the HMX SU's slightly heavier actuation force may appeal to users who favor a more substantial keystroke feel. While both switches have the same bottom out force, the difference in actuation force means users will experience a slightly different tactile feedback, allowing for a nuanced choice based on personal preference.
Travel distance
The KTT Lightning linear switch features a travel distance of 3 mm, while the HMX SU linear switch has a longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This positions the Lightning as the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers or users seeking rapid response times due to its more abrupt keypress. In contrast, the HMX SU, with its greater travel distance, offers a more pronounced feel that some users may prefer for a deeper typing experience. The difference in travel distance suggests that those who prioritize responsiveness should lean towards the KTT Lightning, whereas those who appreciate a heftier keystroke may find the HMX SU more satisfying.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU for $3.29.
The KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41 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
The KTT Lightning linear switch produces a distinctively clacky sound profile, characterized by a sharp, snappy tone that is both crisp and bright. This high-pitched sound can be particularly engaging for those who appreciate an auditory feedback with each keystroke, making it enjoyable not only for typing but also for gaming scenarios where every millisecond counts. The chirpy quality adds a unique acoustic characteristic, making the typing experience feel lively and dynamic. In contrast, the HMX SU linear switch features a relatively deep sound profile due to its full PA12 housing, though specifics about its acoustic qualities remain unspecified. Thus, while the Lightning appeals to users looking for a more high-pitched auditory experience, the SU may cater to those who prefer a deeper tonal quality, although further details on the SU's sound characteristics are not provided.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Lightning switches offer a smooth and polished typing experience, which users find to be lightly resistant without being too feathery. This blend of subtlety and polish allows for a comfortable typing experience with minimal friction, making it suitable for long typing sessions or competitive gaming. The refined finish and gentle resistance enhance usability while keeping the sound signature relatively non-resonant, advantageous for shared spaces. On the other hand, information on the tactile feel of the HMX SU linear switch remains lacking, preventing a direct comparison. Consequently, while the Lightning offers a clear sense of nuanced resistance and smooth travel, the lack of data for the SU means we cannot evaluate its feel attributes at this time.
In summary, the KTT Lightning linear switch stands out with its bright, clacky sound and refined typing feel, making it an excellent choice for gamers and typists seeking an engaging auditory and tactile experience. Meanwhile, the HMX SU linear switch presents an appealing deeper sound profile, though the specifics of its feel are yet to be explored. Ultimately, while the Lightning provides a more defined performance profile, the SU’s attributes remain a mystery, suggesting that users may have to try both to find their personal preference.
Conclusion
To conclude, selecting between the KTT Lightning linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch ultimately hinges on your specific needs and preferences as a user. If you are a gamer or someone who values speed and responsiveness, the KTT Lightning is an excellent choice due to its quick actuation and “clacky” sound profile. The slick typing feel combined with a lighter bottom out force allows for fast-paced gaming where milliseconds matter. Additionally, if you enjoy a lively acoustic signature that can add character to your typing experience, the Lightning's chirpy and high-pitched sound might be more appealing. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch that offers a deeper, more subtle sound profile with a polished feel, the HMX SU would be ideal. Its robust PA12 housing ensures durability while delivering a more refined typing experience suitable for quieter work environments. In summary, your choice should reflect not just the sound and feel you prefer, but also the context in which you’ll be using your keyboard—whether that’s competitive gaming or focused typing in a shared space.
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