KTT Matcha vs. HMX Twilight
An in-depth look at the KTT Matcha and the HMX Twilight switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the differences between the KTT Matcha and the HMX Twilight can significantly influence your typing experience. The KTT Matcha is celebrated for its tactile feedback, providing a comfortable and snappy response that enhances typing accuracy and helps users feel each keypress with confidence. Its long pole stem contributes to a notably clean bottom-out sound, making each keystroke satisfying to hear. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight, being a linear switch, offers a smoother typing experience with an extended travel distance of 3.85mm. This feature results in a slightly quieter operation while still delivering the trademark clacky sound associated with HMX switches, appealing to those who prefer minimal resistance without the tactile bump. Depending on your typing style and preferences—whether you gravitate toward the tactile satisfaction of the Matcha or the fluidity of the Twilight—each switch has its unique charm. 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
40g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.85 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the KTT Matcha switches and the HMX Twilight switches, a notable distinction lies in their housing materials. The Matcha features polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, which is known for its rigidity and clarity. This makes the Matcha switches produce a sharper, higher-pitched sound, enhancing their resonance and overall crispness, especially useful when utilizing RGB lighting due to the translucency of the material. In contrast, the HMX Twilight employs nylon for its top and bottom housings, a classic material characterized by its softness and ability to absorb sound. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, which contributes to a more muted auditory experience as compared to the Matcha.
Looking more closely at the effects of these different materials, we find that the top and bottom housings play distinct roles in shaping the auditory and tactile feedback of each switch. In the case of the Matcha, both housings enhance clarity, ensuring that the sound produced at both the bottom-out and release stages of pressing the key remains sharp and resonant. Conversely, the Twilight's nylon construction results in a sound profile that is more subdued, with the bottom housing significantly impacting the bottom-out noise and tactile feel, while the softness of the nylon can create a more cushioned experience during key releases.
Ultimately, both switches provide unique auditory experiences based on their housing materials. If users are in pursuit of a sharper sound profile with the Matcha or a fuller, muted experience with the Twilight, the separate attributes of polycarbonate and nylon will guide their choice. However, should one choose identical housing materials for both types, achieving similar results in sound quality becomes feasible. For instance, using polycarbonate in both top and bottom housings would yield a consistently crisp sound, while pairing nylon materials would provide a uniformly deeper auditory experience.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, both switches exhibit relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, though there are notable differences. The Matcha switch has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it the lighter option of the two. In contrast, the Twilight switch has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, classifying it as slightly heavier. The lighter actuation force of the Matcha may appeal to those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions, as it allows for less fatigue. Conversely, the slightly stronger push of the Twilight may provide a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer that tactile feedback. Overall, while both switches fall into the light category, the Matcha is the lighter choice, appealing to a different typing style compared to the somewhat heavier Twilight switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, it is evident that the Matcha offers a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Twilight comes in at 3.85 mm. This means that the Matcha switch provides a more substantial depth feeling with each keypress, which might appeal to users who prefer a more pronounced actuation and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Twilight may offer quicker response times, making it an attractive option for gamers who value speed and rapid actuation in their switches. Overall, if you're looking for a switch that provides a deeper, more satisfying keystroke, the Matcha is the preferable choice, while the Twilight caters to those who prioritize efficiency and speed with its slightly reduced travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
The HMX Twilight has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Twilight for $3.29.
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 KTT Matcha tactile switch produces a distinctly clean bottom-out noise paired with a clacky character. This combination results in a sharp, snappy sound that is crisp and bright, delivering an engaging auditory experience while typing. The sound signature makes it enjoyable for users who appreciate a pronounced acoustic feedback during their keystrokes. In contrast, the HMX Twilight linear switch is designed to be slightly quieter, thanks to its extended travel distance. While the auditory qualities of the Twilight aren’t explicitly described, its nature as a linear switch generally lends itself to a smoother and less pronounced sound compared to tactile switches like the Matcha.
Regarding feel, the KTT Matcha switch offers a rich tactile experience characterized by its snappy and accentuated feedback. With a stepped tacticity, users can perceive clear stages during the keystroke, enhancing engagement and responsiveness. This switch is particularly well-suited for those who appreciate a medium tactile sensation, making it versatile enough for both typing and gaming. Additionally, it features a feathery quality that minimizes finger fatigue, which is ideal for prolonged usage. On the other hand, details about the feel of the HMX Twilight linear switch remain unspecified, but linear switches typically provide a smoother typing experience devoid of tactile bumps, allowing for uninterrupted keystrokes that many users enjoy for fast-paced activities.
In conclusion, the KTT Matcha tactile switch stands out with its engaging sound and dynamic tactile feel, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a lively typing experience with notable acoustic feedback. The HMX Twilight linear switch, although quieter and less specified in its tactile attributes, caters to users seeking a smooth and consistent keystroke. Ultimately, selecting between these switches will depend on your preference for sound and feedback; if you appreciate a richer auditory stimulation and tactile response, the Matcha is your go-to, whereas the Twilight provides a more quiet and linear typing environment.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and intended use. If you favor a tactile feedback experience that enhances your typing with a pronounced "snappy" feel, the Matcha is the way to go. Its light actuation force of 45 grams makes it comfortable for prolonged use, and the distinct bottom-out sound adds a lively element to your keystrokes. This switch is particularly suited for those who enjoy typing or gaming in a setting where auditory feedback can be appreciated, while still being mindful of any shared environments due to its relatively crisp sound profile. On the other hand, if you're looking for a smoother, quieter typing experience that still offers satisfying key travel without the pronounced bump of a tactile switch, you would benefit from the Twilight. With a slightly higher bottom-out force of 50 grams and an extended travel distance, this linear switch provides a cushioned touch that excels in fast-paced scenarios where rapid key presses are advantageous, all while maintaining a muted sound profile. Therefore, consider your typing style, environment, and personal preference when making your choice between these two excellent switches.
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