HMX Lucky vs. KTT Orange
An in-depth look at the HMX Lucky and the KTT Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Lucky and KTT Orange offer distinct yet appealing characteristics for different typing preferences. The HMX Lucky, with its softer and glittery nylon housings, provides a lightweight typing experience that is both neutral and deeply satisfying, making it an excellent choice for those seeking comfort with a subtle aesthetic. On the other hand, the KTT Orange is designed with a bouncy feel, thanks to its 22mm long spring, and features a polycarbonate milky top housing paired with a vivid orange nylon bottom. This switch promises a smooth and frictionless typing experience, accompanied by a low-pitched sound profile, making it suitable for users who prefer an energetic keystroke with minimal resistance. Both switches cater to different typing styles, and the choice between them ultimately hinges on personal preference. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
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
22mm double-staged spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Lucky and the KTT Orange, a distinct difference emerges between the two switches. The HMX Lucky utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings. This choice is significant as nylon is renowned for its ability to dampen sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience. The soft nature of nylon allows it to absorb vibrations, leading to a more muted and rounded sound profile, which is ideal for those who prefer a quieter keystroke. In contrast, the KTT Orange features polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, which starkly contrasts with the properties of nylon. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, produces a sharper and crisper sound. This material's rigidity contributes to a more pronounced resonance, making it favorable for users who enjoy a pronounced auditory feedback with each keystroke.
The differences in materials not only affect sound but also the overall aesthetic qualities of the switches. The polycarbonate housing of the KTT Orange is characterized by its translucence, which enhances its visual appeal, especially when RGB lighting is utilized. This feature attracts users seeking a dynamic visual experience alongside their typing. On the other hand, the HMX Lucky’s nylon housing, while functional and effective in sound absorption, lacks the same level of visual flair as polycarbonate. In this regard, users concerned with aesthetics and illumination effects may lean toward the KTT Orange due to its clear housing that showcases RGB lighting effectively.
Though the HMX Lucky and KTT Orange feature different housing materials, they can still be appreciated for their unique sound profiles. Those who prefer a deeper sound may find the Lucky's nylon construction more to their liking, while users who favor a brighter, more resonant sound will likely prefer the KTT Orange's polycarbonate. However, it is essential to recognize that both switches will deliver distinct typing experiences based on their material compositions, leading to varied impressions as one engages with the keys. Users will find that the bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing’s characteristics come into play when releasing the key, ensuring that each switch provides a unique tactile and auditory experience despite their differences.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Lucky linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The HMX Lucky switch features a light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming, as it requires less effort to press down. In contrast, the KTT Orange switch has a heavier actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, which provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Therefore, the Lucky switch is lighter overall, while the Orange switch is heavier, catering to different user preferences. While the exact feel might differ due to these force variations, users opting for the HMX Lucky switch can expect a more effortless typing experience, while the KTT Orange switch will appeal to those wishing for a firmer key press.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lucky linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, we find that the Lucky features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Orange has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Lucky switch offers a deeper engagement when pressed, likely appealing to users who prefer a more substantial feel while typing or gaming. In contrast, the KTT Orange, with its shorter travel distance, caters more to gamers seeking faster response times and who may favor a snappier keystroke. Therefore, if responsiveness is a priority, the KTT Orange would be the better choice, while the HMX Lucky may be preferable for those who value a more pronounced tactile experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Lucky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lucky for $2.99.
The KTT Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange 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
The sound profile of the HMX Lucky linear switch remains unspecified, making it difficult to draw direct comparisons with the KTT Orange switch, which is characterized by its low-pitched sound. The low-pitched nature of the KTT Orange switches provides a bass-heavy and mellow tone during key presses, which can contribute to a pleasant auditory experience, particularly in a quiet typing environment. This sound quality may appeal to those who prefer a subtler feedback that avoids the high-pitched clack often associated with other switch types.
In terms of feel, the KTT Orange switch stands out with its bouncy and frictionless characteristics. The bouncy feel adds a spring-like sensation upon pressing, giving the user a lively rebounding response, while the frictionless design ensures that the key travel is smooth and effortless. In comparison, the feel of the HMX Lucky linear switch is not explicitly described, leaving a gap in understanding how it may compare to the bounciness and smooth nature of the KTT Orange. If the Lucky switches share a similarly satisfying or fluid typing experience, users might find a balance in tactile pleasure.
In conclusion, while the KTT Orange offers a well-defined low-pitched sound and a delightful, bouncy feel, the subjective qualities of the HMX Lucky linear switch are less defined. If you're seeking a linear switch experience, both options may provide similar results if the Lucky aligns with the neutral satisfaction attributed to linear switches, although the specifics on its sound and feel would need further exploration. Ultimately, personal preference will drive the decision, so considering the available characteristics of each switch is key to finding the right typing experience for you.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Lucky linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you prefer a light typing experience with a softer touch, the Lucky switch is an excellent option, particularly if you value a neutral feel that provides a satisfying yet effortless keystroke. Its glittery nylon housing adds a unique aesthetic, making for an enjoyable typing experience, especially if you’re someone who types extensively or enjoys rapid key presses. On the other hand, if you lean towards a more dynamic typing experience, the KTT Orange switch might be more appealing with its medium-light actuation force and bouncy feel. The added length of the spring contributes to a lively, spring-like sensation while typing, and its frictionless travel minimizes any resistance, making it ideal for gaming or fast-paced typing scenarios. The low-pitched sound profile of the Orange also turns out to be a key factor for users who prefer a mellower auditory feedback. Ultimately, choose the Lucky for a smoother, softer experience, and opt for the Orange if you want that bounciness combined with robust performance.
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