KTT Peach vs. HMX Sunset Gleam

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Peach and the HMX Sunset Gleam both offer compelling options for those who appreciate linear switches, yet each brings its own distinct characteristics to the table. The KTT Peach is celebrated for its syrupy smooth typing experience, delivering a deep, thocky sound profile that many users find satisfying. Characterized by a low-pitched, neutral, and mild response, it provides a balanced feel that is ideal for both typing and gaming. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam, also known as the Duck Duck switch, boasts a unique blend of materials that creates a subtle top-out sensation paired with a satisfying clack sound. With HMX's excellent factory lube, this switch promises a delightful experience that can enhance overall performance. While both switches cater to enthusiasts seeking smoothness and reliability, their sound profiles and tactile nuances differ, making them suited to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that meets your needs.

By the numbers

KTT Peach Linear

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$2.91 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The KTT Peach and the HMX Sunset Gleam switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which significantly influences their acoustic characteristics. As noted, the use of polycarbonate in this context results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relative stiffness. This rigid material enhances the clarity and resonance of each keystroke, making it particularly favorable for users who prioritize auditory feedback and sound quality in their typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects, which can illuminate the internal components of the switch and create an aesthetically pleasing visual display.

In contrast, the bottom housings of both the KTT Peach and HMX Sunset Gleam are constructed from nylon, a material recognized for its unique acoustic properties. Nylon’s softer composition allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a fuller and deeper sound profile when typing. This leads to a smoother and more rounded acoustics compared to the sharper notes produced by the polycarbonate top housings. Users will notice that the nylon bottom housing plays a significant role in shaping the overall sound experience, particularly in the bottom-out sound when a key is fully pressed down, complementing the crisper notes from the top housing.

When considering the overall performance of these switches, it becomes clear that the combination of polycarbonate tops and nylon bottoms creates a harmonious interaction that balances sharpness with fullness. While both switches utilize the same materials for their respective top and bottom housings, the differing characteristics of each material contribute distinctively to the overall sound profile. This synergy allows users to experience an engaging typing experience that leverages the clearness of polycarbonate and the warmth of nylon, ensuring that both the sound quality and aesthetic appeal are met, regardless of whether one chooses the KTT Peach or the HMX Sunset Gleam.

Weight

When comparing the KTT Peach linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom-out force. The KTT Peach features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom-out force of 53 grams, classifying it as medium-light. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam is lighter, with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom-out force of 48 grams, which is considered light. This makes the Sunset Gleam more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the Peach provides a slightly firmer feel that could appeal to those seeking a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the Peach is the heavier switch when it comes to both actuation and bottom-out forces, whereas the Sunset Gleam offers a lighter alternative.

Travel distance

The KTT Peach linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Peach the longer of the two switches, offering a more traditional depth that some users appreciate for its tactile engagement during typing. On the other hand, the Sunset Gleam’s 3.5 mm travel distance allows for quicker key presses, which may enhance responsiveness and is particularly favored by gamers seeking faster response times. While both switches are linear and thus provide a smooth keystroke without tactile feedback, the 0.5 mm difference in travel distance could influence a user's preference based on their typing style and sensitivity to key press depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The KTT Peach linear switch produces a deep, thocky sound profile that can be characterized as low-pitched, offering a bass-heavy and mellow tone, which many users find satisfying and pleasant. Its neutral sound characteristic allows it to perform effectively in various environments, making it a versatile choice for both home and office settings. While the sound profile of the HMX Sunset Gleam switch has not been detailed, it's noted to provide a subtle top-out combined with a satisfying clack, suggesting that it may lean towards a more pronounced auditory feedback compared to the Peach. However, it is important to note that sound experience will ultimately depend on factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps used.

When it comes to feel, the KTT Peach switch is described as mild, which contributes to a gentle typing experience. This makes it approachable for a wide range of users, ensuring that the tactile feedback is comfortable without being overly aggressive. The characteristics of the Peach switch strike a balance that caters to both beginner and more experienced typists. Unfortunately, the feel of the Sunset Gleam switch is not outlined, leaving a gap in direct comparison for users looking for specific tactile feedback characteristics.

In summary, the KTT Peach linear switch is well-regarded for its syrupy smooth feel and rich, throaty sound, making it a great option for users who appreciate a softer typing experience. The HMX Sunset Gleam, while lacking specific details regarding its feel and sound, appears to offer a contrasting experience with a more noticeable auditory feature. If you're looking for a linear switch, either of these options will provide a pleasant typing experience, but the KTT Peach is likely to be more universally appealing, especially for those new to mechanical keyboards.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the KTT Peach and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switches, consider your typing preferences and the environment in which you'll use your keyboard. If you prefer a medium-light switch with a deeper, thocky sound profile and a smooth typing experience, the KTT Peach is an excellent choice. Its heavier bottom-out force of 53 grams provides a satisfying resistance that many typists appreciate, especially if you enjoy a more pronounced feedback with a mildly mellow tone. On the other hand, if you're looking for a lighter switch that is exceptionally smooth and features a satisfying clack sound—thanks to its superior factory lube—the HMX Sunset Gleam might be better suited for you. With a lower bottom-out force of 48 grams, it offers a more delicate touch that can be ideal for fast-paced typing or gaming. Ultimately, your choice should hinge on whether you value a thocky sound with a bit more resistance or a louder, more responsive feel with a lighter touch.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Peach Linear

$2.91 per 10

Learn more

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more