I like my M&P9, just not a fan of the heavy and gritty trigger. Would like to improve the trigger, just that I'm on a budget right now.

Now would you folks recommend the Apex DCAEK Kit or just the Apex Sear?

Based on what I've seen, the sear seems to be a popular upgrade. Then again, I've shot a DCAEK and it was real nice. Tough decision.

I don't think the sear only is going to make you happy
If money is real tight, I'd get the competition spring kit for about $26

Apex Tactical M&P Competition Spring Kit (comp spring kit) | Two Brothers Tactical

That will get your trigger down to about 2 lb 4 oz but still a little gritty
If you can go about $84 then this kit has the sear and USB also...

M&P Competition Action Enhancement (CAEK) | Two Brothers Tactical

Then later you could add the Poly or aluminum trigger to complete the set up

I know, you're probably thinking about the heavier trigger pull with the duty kit...but;
I put the competition kit and poly trigger in my Pro 5 inch and was so thrilled I added the
competition spring kit (minus the striker spring) and the USB and sear to my Shield.

They are now two completely different and wonderful pistols
with extremely similar triggers

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M&P 9mm 5" Pro
M&P 9mm Shield

Thanks for the insight, much appreciated!

Right now the M&P is a range pistol. One day, I might want it in the rotation for a SD/HD gun so I don't want too light of a trigger.

The one thing that bothers me the most is the inconsistent trigger. Sometimes it feels fine (other than the grittiness). Other times, it feels real heavy (like needing extra strength to pull the trigger). Oh well, guess I'll just save up and get the DCAEK.

I installed the Apex FSS Trigger Kit in my M&P 45 World of a difference. Only took about 35 minutes and I'm no gun smith

The DCAEK will not shorten the pull and reset, only the FSS will do that. An APEX Glock style trigger is far superior to the stock trigger.