An in-depth look at the KTT MoonRosa and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, personal preference plays a significant role in achieving the ideal typing experience. The KTT MoonRosa, renowned for its all-POM construction, offers users a buttery smooth feel and a neutral sound profile that many typists find appealing. Its characterization as mild, low-pitched, and easy-to-press makes it a popular choice for those who prioritize a quiet and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX SU switch, with its full PA12 housing and T5 stem, delivers a relatively deep sound profile that can provide tactile satisfaction to users who appreciate auditory feedback while typing. Both switches are acclaimed for their linear characteristics, which means they deliver smooth keystrokes without the tactile bump found in other switch types. However, choosing between the MoonRosa's silky performance and the SU's deeper acoustic signature largely depends on individual preferences. As such, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
37g
45g
45g
50g
1.80 mm
1.80 mm
3.50 mm
3.60 mm
Yes
Yes
Partial box
Standard
POM
T5
POM
Nylon
POM
Nylon
PCB (5-pin)
PCB (5-pin)
22mm spring
22mm single-stage spring
The KTT MoonRosa and the HMX SU utilize different materials for their switch housings, which impacts the sound and feel of each key press. The MoonRosa features POM (polyoxymethylene) for both its top and bottom housings, resulting in a unique and relatively muted sound profile that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum. Its construction is known for creating a pleasing auditory experience, largely because POM is a denser plastic that minimizes vibrational feedback and enhances the weight of the sound produced when typing. This makes the MoonRosa switches particularly suited to users who appreciate a sound that is both rich and not overly bright.
In contrast, the HMX SU utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housings, a material known for its classic application in switch design. Nylon's softer plastic composition contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it absorbs sound more than harder materials. This quality allows the key presses to emanate a rounder and more pleasant tone, which can be more forgiving on the ears during extended typing sessions. The comparison between nylon and POM reveals that while both materials create rich sound profiles, they produce distinct auditory experiences due to their differing densities and acoustic properties.
When comparing the two, while the MoonRosa employs POM throughout, and the HMX SU uses nylon, both switches succeed in achieving a deeper sound. The interplay between the top and bottom housing materials in each switch dictates the overall acoustic character; for example, the MoonRosa’s use of POM influences both the bottom-out feel and the release sound, while the HMX SU’s nylon achieves a similar effect through its inherently soft properties. Thus, despite the material differences, users can expect satisfying and deep auditory feedback from both types of switches, albeit with unique nuances reflecting their respective material compositions.
When comparing the KTT MoonRosa linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, notable differences emerge in both their actuation and bottom out forces. The MoonRosa features a lower actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option that promotes extended typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the SU switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, offering a more substantial typing experience for those who appreciate a stronger push feel. While both switches are classified as light, the KTT MoonRosa is the lighter of the two, making it more suitable for users seeking comfort during prolonged use. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight.
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT MoonRosa linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, the MoonRosa offers a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the SU has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that between the two, the MoonRosa provides a slightly shorter travel distance, which could appeal more to gamers seeking quick response times. On the other hand, the HMX SU, with its longer travel distance, may be more suitable for users who prefer a more pronounced key press, offering a deeper feel and potentially a more reassuring typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches hinges on personal preference: if you prioritize responsiveness, the MoonRosa may be the better option, while the SU caters to those who enjoy a heartier key press.
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 MoonRosa comes in at $4.88 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.
When it comes to sound characteristics, the KTT MoonRosa switch is known for its low-pitched tone, which contributes to a bass-heavy and mellow auditory experience. This makes it well-suited for users who prefer a subtler sound when typing, as it creates an environment that is less distracting. In contrast, the HMX SU switch lacks a detailed description regarding its sound profile, but it is noted to have a subtle and relatively deep sound. This suggests that while the MoonRosa may provide a more uniformly low-pitched experience, the SU could still deliver a pleasant acoustic environment, albeit with fewer specifics available for comparison.
Regarding feel, the MoonRosa stands out with its mild characteristics, which allow for a gentle typing experience that balances comfortably for most users. The ease of pressing these switches further enhances their appeal, requiring minimal force to actuate and thereby reducing finger fatigue during longer typing sessions. Unfortunately, the HMX SU switch does not have any feel descriptor available, leaving a gap in understanding how it might compare in this aspect. The lack of information means that potential users of the SU might need to rely on individual testing to assess its tactile feedback and actuation force.
In summary, the KTT MoonRosa linear switch offers a well-rounded typing experience with its low-pitched sound and gentle feel, making it a versatile choice for a variety of users. The HMX SU, while it features a subtle and deep sound profile, remains somewhat of an enigma concerning its tactile experience, which requires further exploration. Those who are familiar with the qualities of the MoonRosa may benefit from its smoother action and approachable sound, while users interested in the SU will need to focus on hands-on exploration to determine how closely it aligns with their desired typing experience.
To conclude, the choice between the KTT MoonRosa and the HMX SU linear switches really depends on your personal preferences and intended usage. If you prioritize a lighter actuation force and a smooth, gentle typing experience, then the MoonRosa is likely the better option for you. Its all-POM construction and mellow sound profile make it ideal for extended typing sessions, minimizing finger fatigue while still providing a satisfying feel and sound. This switch is particularly well-suited for those who type frequently or are looking for a comfortable and accessible option. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly higher bottom-out force and are looking for a more robust and deeper sound profile, the HMX SU may be your best choice. The PA12 housing combined with the T5 stem offers a solid typing experience that can cater to users who enjoy a bit more feedback while typing. Ultimately, assess what aspects—whether sound, feel, or force—you value most in your keyboard experience, and choose the switch that aligns with your needs.