HMX Sunset Gleam vs. KTT Wine Red

Overview

When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Sunset Gleam and KTT Wine Red present intriguing options for enthusiasts seeking a linear typing experience. The HMX Sunset Gleam, often referred to as the Duck Duck switch, is celebrated for its careful selection of materials that produce a subtle top-out and a satisfying clack, complemented by HMX's renowned factory lubricants, ensuring a smooth operation. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red switches entice with their pillowy feel and rich, low-pitched sound profile, making them an appealing choice for those who prefer a softer touch coupled with a deep auditory feedback. Both switches offer unique attributes, catering to different preferences in terms of tactile experience and acoustic enjoyment. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

KTT Wine Red Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$2.71 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

Both the HMX Sunset Gleam and the KTT Wine Red utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in highly similar sound profiles characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper acoustics. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, ensuring that both models deliver a satisfying auditory experience during typing. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate top housing enhances the aesthetic appeal of the switches, especially for users who wish to incorporate RGB lighting. Because both switches share this material for the top housing, users can expect comparable results not only in sound quality but also in visual effect when illuminated.

In contrast, the bottom housing of the two switches differs significantly, with the Sunset Gleam employing nylon while the Wine Red utilizes polycarbonate. Nylon is known for its softer properties, which help absorb sound and create a deeper, fuller acoustic profile that contrasts with the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate. The impact of this difference becomes evident when a key is bottomed out; the Sunset Gleam's nylon bottom housing will produce a more muted and rounded sound, while the Wine Red's polycarbonate bottom housing will continue the trend of clarity and brightness set by its top housing. Thus, the tonal quality experienced when pressing down on these switches will significantly differ due to the materials used in their bottom housings.

Ultimately, these differences in materials lead to distinct sound characteristics for each switch, despite their similarities in the top housing. The Sunset Gleam’s nylon bottom induces a softer sound profile, enhancing comfort during long typing sessions, while the Wine Red's polycarbonate bottom retains the crispness of its top housing, resulting in a high-energy typing experience. This differentiation means that users will feel the nuanced effects of both switches based on their respective material compositions, leading to a varied auditory experience that reflects the intended aesthetics and performance features of both the HMX Sunset Gleam and the KTT Wine Red.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Sunset Gleam features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, compared to the Wine Red's 44 grams, making it more suited for prolonged typing sessions or gaming due to its easier actuation. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Sunset Gleam is 48 grams, also lighter than the Wine Red's 55 grams. This means that while both switches offer a relatively light typing experience, the Sunset Gleam is the lighter option overall. Users who prefer a lighter switch for comfort during extended use would likely gravitate towards the Sunset Gleam, whereas those who favor a firmer feel may find the slightly heavier forces of the Wine Red more appealing.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, there is a noticeable difference between the two. The Sunset Gleam features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Wine Red has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that users who choose the Sunset Gleam may experience a quicker response time, which is often favored by gamers seeking efficiency. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red's greater travel distance may provide a more substantial typing feel, appealing to those who appreciate a deeper key press. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your preference for either responsiveness or key depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Sunset Gleam switch presents a more subtle top-out accompanied by a satisfying clack, indicative of a well-balanced acoustic profile. This makes it suitable for users seeking a sound that is neither too harsh nor too muted, effortlessly fitting into diverse environments without being disruptive. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red switch features a deep and rich sound, characterized by its bassy and low-pitched qualities. This switch offers a deeper frequency range, delivering a more dramatic auditory experience, akin to the resonant tones commonly associated with bass sounds. Both switches offer distinct auditory characteristics that cater to different preferences, allowing for a choice between subtlety and richness.

When it comes to feel, the HMX Sunset Gleam provides an overall smooth experience, featuring excellent factory lubrication that minimizes friction and enhances the typing experience. The focus here is on providing a seamless keypress without any noticeable resistance, perfect for those who favor a fluid typing motion. In contrast, the KTT Wine Red switch is celebrated for its pillowy light touch, offering a soft resistance that can make each keystroke feel gentle and cushioned. This results in a unique tactile sensation, providing comfort during extended typing sessions. While the two switches may cater to different tactile preferences, both prioritize a smooth experience, ensuring users can find satisfaction in their selection.

In conclusion, both the HMX Sunset Gleam and KTT Wine Red linear switches cater to different sound and feel preferences in the realm of mechanical keyboards. The Sunset Gleam leans towards a balanced and subtle auditory experience with a smooth feel, while the Wine Red offers a rich, bassy sound paired with a lightweight and pillowy touch. Each switch has its unique charm, ensuring that users can find a switch that aligns perfectly with their typing needs and personal style. As both sound and feel are subjective and influenced by various factors, experimenting with different setups will ultimately lead to a more personalized mechanical keyboard experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, the choice between the HMX Sunset Gleam and the KTT Wine Red switches ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and desired experience. If you favor a lighter key press with a smoother action that enables rapid typing, the Sunset Gleam, with its 48-gram bottom-out force, is likely the better option for you. Its factory lube and thoughtful materials contribute to a delightful tactile experience, along with a satisfying clack that can enhance your overall enjoyment while typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier key feel, along with a deeper, more resonant sound profile, you might gravitate toward the KTT Wine Red switches, which have a medium-light 55-gram actuation. The bassy and low-pitched sound characteristics provide a rich auditory feedback that can be particularly gratifying. In conclusion, your choice should reflect whether you prioritize a lighter, more agile typing experience with the Sunrise Gleam, or a deeper, more substantial feel and sound with the Wine Red switches.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

KTT Wine Red Linear

$2.71 per 10

Learn more