Comparison Hator Gravity X TKL vs Hator Skyfall 2 TKL PRO

The model of switches (switches) used in the keyboard - switching mechanisms installed under each individual key. These details are given if the design uses advanced mechanics, positioned as a better option than traditional switches. Mostly gaming keyboards are equipped with such mechanics.

The most popular switch brands in our time are Cherry MX, considered the "classic of the genre" for high-quality mechanics; Gateron, practically not inferior to him; not so advanced, but also cheaper Kailh and Keychron, as well as ultra-budget Outemu. For all these brands, different types of switches have a different stem color, which can be used to determine the features of the keyboard. It is also worth saying that modern mechanical switches are divided into three main varieties: linear, tactile and clicky.

- Linear. Such solutions are closest to conventional membrane keyboards: the key travel is uniform along the entire length, with minimal resistance and the absence of a clear actuation point. There is an opinion that the linear "mechanics" is best suited for games where you have to deal with fast and frequent clicks; however, in practice, this moment largely depends on the personal tastes of th...e user, nothing prevents the use of such keyboards for working with texts.

- Tactile. Switches with a clearly defined actuation point - a kind of barrier to the path of the key. Such a "barrier" allows you to clearly determine by touch whether the key has worked or not. Tactile keyboards are valued primarily by tech who have to type large volumes of texts.

- Tactile-auditory (Clicky). In such switches, the actuation point is felt not only by touch, but also by ear: the actuation of the key is accompanied by a clearly audible click, which is often compared to the sound of the keys of a typewriter. Due to this, this option is also very popular among users dealing with texts. Some people consider switches of this type not very suitable for games, since they are supposedly not very convenient for frequent, fast pressing; however, a quality Clicky switch is as good as a linear switch in this regard, and the choice depends solely on personal preference. But the unequivocal disadvantages of such keyboards include a rather loud click sound, which in some situations may be superfluous.

As for specific colors, here are their features:

- Red (red). Linear type switches with minimum resistance. They are popular, in particular, among professional gamers who deal with dynamic games and try by all means to speed up their reaction to gaming events. On the other hand, a low force increases the likelihood of accidentally pressing an unnecessary button.

— Black. Another type of linear switches. They have a tighter move compared to Red, which, on the one hand, requires a little more effort, on the other hand, minimizes the chance of accidentally pressing the wrong key.

Blue. Switches in clicky format, with tactile feedback and a click.

— Brown. Switches with tactile feedback, but no "click". The Brown action is great for when you want a keyboard with tactile feedback and at the same time you want to avoid unnecessary noise (although the sound is still louder than on a membrane keyboard). In addition, it is considered a good option for tech who are just starting to get acquainted with mechanical keyboards.

— Silver. Linear switches designed for maximum operating speed. They have a very low stroke - about 1 - 1.2 mm - as well as a very small pressing force, which contributes to high speed. At the same time, the use of such a keyboard requires a certain skill, since even a small effort from an accidental touch usually leads to the operation of a key.

The force required for the complete actuation of the switch under the key. This parameter is measured in grams and directly affects the feel of typing or gaming. Light switches with a force of about 35 – 45 grams require minimal pressure and are suitable for fast typing, while heavier ones — 55 – 80 grams — provide a precise response and prevent accidental presses. Actuation force is considered one of the key characteristics of mechanical keyboards, as it determines user comfort and individual preferences.

The distance a key travels from its original position to the point where a keystroke is registered, usually measured in millimeters. The smaller the value, the sooner the command is executed, which is particularly useful in fast-paced games; however, a setting that is too sensitive may increase the number of accidental presses. Mechanical and optical keyboards often have a fixed actuation point, while magnetic switches frequently allow for adjustment within a specified range.

This parameter should not be confused with the total key travel, which includes further movement to the bottom.

The total distance that a key travels from its top position to the switch base. Usually, the total travel ranges from 3.5 to 4 mm for classic mechanical keys and can be less in low-profile models. This factor affects the depth of the press and overall feel of operation: a short travel allows for quicker responses and reduces fatigue, while a longer travel provides a distinct tactile feedback and the sensation of a "full" click. The choice of optimal total travel depends on the typing style and preferences of the user.

The frequency with which the computer polls the keyboard to determine which keys are currently being pressed. The parameter is measured in Hertz (Hz) - they show how many requests are executed per second. Higher Hertz means keystrokes are detected and registered faster. This can provide an advantage in games and tasks that require the highest possible input speed.

As for specific values, for most ordinary users the standard polling rate of 125 Hz will be quite sufficient. Gaming keyboards can have a frequency from 1000 Hz (keystrokes in this version are recorded every 1 ms), and advanced models for true e-sportsmen - up to 8000 Hz (the reaction time is 0.125 ms).

Keycaps made from polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), one of the toughest and most durable plastics for keyboards. Unlike ABS keycaps, they are more wear-resistant, do not become glossy over time, and are resistant to mechanical abrasion. This durability is also aided by high-quality symbol application methods, such as double-shot molding or laser engraving. PBT keycaps have a textured surface that feels pleasant to touch and provide a clearer and more tactile feedback when typing.

Legend application indicates how the Latin characters on the keys are made and how well they will survive years of heavy typing.

— Double-shot. The keycap is molded from two different plastics: the main “body” and a separate legend insert are formed together in a single mold, so the letters don’t wear off or fade at all. This method is ideal for RGB backlighting: if the legend layer is semi-transparent, light passes through the symbols without halos. ABS double-shot is more common (bright glow, pleasantly smooth feel), while the pricier PBT double-shot is rarer and offers higher surface wear resistance. Compared to laser engraving, the lifespan is an order of magnitude higher, and it beats the dye-sub method for backlighting (dye-sub doesn’t shine through). Downsides include cost and sometimes visible seams/thick walls that can affect the click’s sound profile. In practice, these keycaps are in demand for mechanical gaming keyboards, esports arenas, developers, and frequent hotkey typing—where double-shot keeps legends readable for years.

— Sublimation. A method of applying Latin symbols to keycaps where, under heat and pressure, the dye penetrates the top layer of plastic, creating a durable, “absorbed” legend. The print won’t rub off from fingers, resists household cleaners and UV light, preserves a matte texture, and maintains high contrast on light backgrounds, but it doesn’t let RGB shine through the symbols and is limited in palette. Compared to laser...engraving, it offers higher lifespan and readability, and versus double-shot it only loses in shine-through effects. Typical use cases include mechanical keyboards for typing, developers, and office work, where durability, the tactile matte PBT feel, and stable readability over years matter.

— Laser engraving. Burning/removing the top coating layer with a beam to form highly precise symbols. Legends last for years, but over time the fill paint can wear and contrast can drop in high-contact areas. Advantages include thin typefaces, clean contours, RGB compatibility, and low cost. Compared to double-shot, engraving is cheaper and more flexible in design, but not “forever”; versus dye-sub it wins on backlighting, but loses in tactile uniformity and longevity. Typical applications are mass-market office and gaming models with backlighting.

Legend application indicates how the Latin letters are made on the keys and how well they will survive years of heavy typing.

— Double-shot. The keycap is molded from two different plastics: the main “body” and a separate insert with the legend are formed in the mold as a single piece, so the letters don’t wear off or fade at all. This method is ideal for RGB backlighting: if the legend layer is semi‑transparent, light passes through the symbols without halos. ABS double-shot is more common (bright glow, pleasantly smooth feel), while the more expensive PBT double-shot is rarer and offers higher surface durability. Compared to laser engraving, the lifespan is an order of magnitude higher, and it beats the sublimation method in backlighting (dye-sub doesn’t shine through). Downsides include the price and sometimes visible seams/thick walls that can affect key sound. In practice, these keycaps are in demand for mechanical gaming keyboards, esports arenas, developers, and frequent hotkey typing—situations where double-shot preserves legibility for years.

— Dye-sublimation. A method of applying Latin symbols to keycaps where dye penetrates the top layer of plastic under heat and pressure, creating a durable “soaked-in” legend. The print doesn’t rub off from fingers, isn’t afraid of household chemicals or UV light, keeps a matte texture, and offers high contrast on light backgrounds, but it doesn’t let RGB backlighting shine through the symbols and has palette li...mitations. Compared to laser engraving, durability and legibility are higher, and versus double-shot it only loses in shine-through effects. Typical use cases include mechanical keyboards for typing, developers, and office work, where long life, tactile matte PBT, and stable legibility over years are important.

— Laser engraving. Burning/removing the top coating layer with a beam to form a highly precise symbol. The symbols last for years, but over time the paint fill can wear off and contrast can drop in high-contact areas. Advantages include thin fonts, clean contours, RGB compatibility, and affordable cost. Compared to double-shot, engraving is cheaper and more flexible in design, but not “forever”; against dye-sub it wins with backlighting, but loses in tactile uniformity and longevity. Typical applications include mass-market office and gaming models with backlighting, as well as bilingual layouts where the Latin legends are made with a more durable technology and Cyrillic is added by laser.

A connector in the keyboard case for attaching a removable cable, found in both wired models and wireless ones with a battery, where through this port the keyboard is charged and, if necessary, operates "wired" without delay.

— microUSB. One of the miniature versions of the USB connector, still popular in gadgets despite the emergence of the more advanced USB-C. It has comparatively modest capabilities (in particular, it is inferior to USB-C in terms of maximum possible charging power), but this rarely proves critical. Meanwhile, there is an abundance of microUSB cables and chargers.

— USB-C. The latest (as of the end of 2025) type of USB connector. It is symmetrical, allowing the cable to be inserted either way, eliminating the possibility of incorrect connection. USB-C is more reliable, has an extended lifespan, and supports higher data transfer and charging speeds. Additionally, it is compatible with modern devices and is gradually becoming a universal standard, making keyboards with this connector more convenient and relevant for users.