KTT Pine vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the KTT Pine and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Pine and HMX SU stand out as appealing linear options that cater to different preferences and typing experiences. The KTT Pine switches are celebrated for their translucent, forest green aesthetic and a medium-heavy feel, providing a buttery smooth and effortless typing experience. Featuring a polished factory-lubed finish, they excel in minimizing friction, which contributes to their bassy and creamy sound profile. On the other hand, the HMX SU switches, constructed from durable PA12 housing, maintain a subtle, relatively deep sound thanks to their T5 stem. While they lack the specific sound categorizations of the Pine, their design promotes a solid and satisfying keystroke. Both switches have unique qualities that may entice different users; the KTT Pine appeals to those seeking an ultra-smooth typing experience, while the HMX SU might attract those who appreciate a subtle depth in sound. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T5
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Pine and HMX SU switches exhibit notable differences in their top and bottom housing materials, each contributing unique characteristics to the overall sound profile and aesthetics of the switches. The KTT Pine utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, which is known for creating a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This stiffer material enhances the clarity and resonance of the switch, making it particularly effective for users who desire a vivid auditory feedback when typing. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for RGB lighting, as it allows light to pass through more effectively, creating vibrant lighting effects that many users appreciate in their keyboard setups.
In contrast, the HMX SU employs nylon for both its top and bottom housings, a material that is traditionally recognized for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb sound more effectively, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. Typing on switches with nylon housings provides a significantly different tactile feedback, as the softness dampens the impact sounds associated with key presses. This leads to a more muted typing experience, which could be preferable for individuals seeking a quieter keyboard or a more subdued aesthetic, differing from the sharper soundscape provided by the KTT Pine.
Despite their differing materials, both the KTT Pine and HMX SU switches will yield distinct yet complementary auditory experiences based on their construction. The KTT Pine’s polycarbonate creates an aggressive, resonant sound distinguished by clarity, while the HMX SU’s nylon fosters a more plush and muted sound quality. When these switches are utilized, the individual characteristics of each housing material will contribute to the perception of the sounds produced: the KTT Pine will offer a brighter sound during key release, enhanced by the rigidity of polycarbonate, while the HMX SU will provide a softer, rounded end tone thanks to the absorbing qualities of nylon. Users can choose between these switches depending on whether they prefer a crisper or fuller auditory profile, and their decision may ultimately hinge on personal preference for tactile feedback and sound quality.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Pine linear switch to the HMX SU linear switch, both exhibit an actuation force of 45 grams, indicating that they have the same required force to trigger a keystroke. This similarity in actuation force means that users will experience a consistent feel when pressing a key, contributing to comparable typing experiences. However, the bottom out force diverges significantly: the KTT Pine has a bottom out force of 58 grams, which is heavier, whereas the HMX SU features a bottom out force of only 50 grams, making it the lighter option overall. This difference suggests that while both switches require the same amount of force to actuate, the Pine switch may provide a more substantial typing experience during prolonged use, potentially favoring those who prefer a heavier feedback. Conversely, the lighter bottom out force of the SU switch may benefit users seeking comfort during extended typing or gaming sessions.
Travel distance
The KTT Pine linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option compared to the HMX SU linear switch, which has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference in travel distance can significantly affect the typing experience; the Pine switch offers a deeper feel that some users may prefer for a more tactile and substantial response, while the shorter 3.6 mm travel of the SU switch is ideal for those who favor quicker actuation times, often sought after by gamers for enhanced responsiveness. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on personal preference, with the KTT Pine providing a more traditional depth and the HMX SU catering to those who benefit from a snappier keypress.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $4.15.
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.
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 Pine linear switch produces a notably bassy and low-pitched auditory profile. This deeper sound resonates with a richness that can enhance the overall typing experience, contributing to a more satisfying feedback with each press. The bassy quality can make the act of typing feel immersive and substantial, as if the keyboard is providing an auditory embrace during use. In comparison, the subjective sound characteristics of the HMX SU linear switch are currently unknown. It’s essential to remember that individual experiences may vary depending on external factors such as the keyboard case and keycap materials used.
In terms of feel, the KTT Pine linear switch shines with its buttery and creamy typing sensation. These descriptors indicate a smooth, fluid keystroke experience, where the minimal friction allows for a seamless transition between keys. The factory-lubed finish ensures that users enjoy a silky touch that enhances typing efficiency and comfort, making long typing sessions less fatiguing. On the other hand, there are no details available regarding the feel of the HMX SU linear switch, leaving an unknown gap in this comparison for those curious about its tactile experience.
In conclusion, the KTT Pine linear switch stands out with its bassy sound profile and exceptionally smooth feel, making it an attractive option for those seeking a rich auditory and tactile experience. The HMX SU linear switch, while lacking specific details in both sound and feel, may still offer a viable alternative for users seeking a linear switch. Ultimately, if you're gravitating toward a typing experience that prioritizes smoothness and depth, the Pine switch may satisfy your needs, while further insights into the SU could be uncovered through direct testing or user reviews. Each switch has its unique charm, and an individual's preference will ultimately guide their choice.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the KTT Pine linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch ultimately depends on your individual typing preferences and what you value in a switch. If you enjoy a medium-heavy feel with a deeper, bassy sound profile, the KTT Pine would be a fantastic choice. Its polished, factory-lubed finish ensures a smooth and buttery typing experience, making it ideal for both casual typing and extensive gaming sessions. The Pine’s 58 grams bottom-out force offers a nice balance between feedback and effortlessness, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial tactile feel without being overwhelming. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch that requires less force to actuate, the HMX SU with its 50 grams bottom-out force might be more suited to you. This switch is designed for those who favor a subtle and deeper sound profile, combined with a smooth typing experience, making it excellent for swift key presses and prolonged typing without fatigue. Ultimately, your decision should align with your personal comfort and the specific attributes you value—whether it’s the warmth of the Pine’s sound and weightiness or the lightweight nature of the SU.
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