Bsun Avocado vs. KTT Hyacinth
An in-depth look at the Bsun Avocado and the KTT Hyacinth switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the BSUN Avocado and KTT Hyacinth stand out as compelling options. The Avocado is a tactile switch renowned for its snappy, responsive bump and buttery downstroke, offering a satisfying tactile feedback without being overwhelming. On the other hand, the Hyacinth is a linear switch that sets itself apart with a unique 3.5mm travel distance, aiming to strike a balance between tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort. While the Avocado is described as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy', the Hyacinth is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Silky', and 'Subtle'. Each switch has its own strengths and characteristics that cater to different preferences. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
56g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Bsun Avocado and the KTT Hyacinth utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal choice for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. While both switches share this top housing material, they may still offer slight variations in sound based on other factors such as spring weight and stem design.
In terms of their bottom housings, both the Avocado and the Hyacinth feature nylon as their material of choice. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that utilize nylon bottom housings. Despite this similarity in material, the feel and sound of bottoming out on each switch may vary slightly depending on other factors like switch design and keycap material.
Overall, the housing materials of the Bsun Avocado and the KTT Hyacinth play a significant role in the sound and feel of the switches. While they both share polycarbonate top housings which contribute to a sharp and crisp sound profile, their nylon bottom housings offer a deeper and fuller sound experience. Understanding the impact of each housing material on the overall typing experience can help keyboard enthusiasts make informed decisions when choosing between these two switches. Regardless of the differences in sound and feel brought about by the housing materials, users can expect a high-quality typing experience from both the Avocado and the Hyacinth.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Avocado tactile switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch, it is evident that both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Avocado has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Hyacinth has a lighter bottom out force of 56 grams. This means that the Avocado switch provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier press feel, while the Hyacinth switch offers a lighter typing experience with a softer touch. Some users may prefer the Avocado for its heavier bottom out force, which can provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Hyacinth may be preferred by those who like a lighter switch for longer typing periods or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Bsun Avocado tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the KTT Hyacinth linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular especially among gamers seeking faster response times. The difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, with the Hyacinth being slightly longer. Those who prefer a more responsive feel may lean towards the Avocado, while those who enjoy a slightly deeper press may prefer the Hyacinth. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance that will provide a similar typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Avocado has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Avocado for $4.00.
The KTT Hyacinth has an MSRP of $4.03 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hyacinth for $3.75.
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
In terms of sound, the Bsun Avocado tactile switch offers a mild and neutral sound profile, providing a quiet backdrop to the typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch is also known for its neutral sound signature, making it suitable for various environments and preferences. Both switches offer a moderate sound profile, ensuring a pleasant auditory experience for users.
Moving on to feel, the Bsun Avocado switch is acclaimed for its invigorating and sharp tactile feedback, offering a snappy and responsive typing sensation without being overwhelming. On the other hand, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch is described as silky and subtle, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with a gentle resistance. While the Avocado switch focuses on pronounced tactility, the Hyacinth switch prioritizes smoothness and minimal resistance in each key press.
In conclusion, the Bsun Avocado tactile switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Avocado excels in providing pronounced tactile feedback with a mild sound profile, while the Hyacinth stands out for its smooth typing experience and subtle sound signature. Depending on personal preferences for tactility and auditory experience, users can choose between the snappy and invigorating Avocado or the silky and subtle Hyacinth switch for their mechanical keyboard needs. Ultimately, both switches cater to different typing preferences, ensuring a tailored experience for newcomers in the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the BSUN Avocado tactile switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch, it ultimately boils down to your preference for typing experience. If you crave a tactile switch with a satisfying feedback and pronounced tactility, the Avocado would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and consistent linear switch with a gentle resistance and a neutral sound profile, the Hyacinth may better suit your typing style. Consider how you like your switches to feel and sound, as well as your preferred bottom out force, to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.