Kailh Box Jade vs. KTT Hyacinth
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the KTT Hyacinth switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular choices are the Kailh Box Jade and the KTT Hyacinth. The Box Jade is perfect for those who prefer a medium-heavy typing experience, accompanied by a satisfying clicky sound profile and pronounced tactility. The crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps make typing on these switches an enjoyable experience. On the other hand, the Hyacinth stands out for its unique design choice of a 3.5mm travel distance, aiming to provide a more comfortable typing experience by avoiding a hard bottoming-out sensation. Its commitment to an ideal balance between tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort sets it apart. Additionally, the Hyacinth deviates from the mainstream trend of using dual-stage elongated springs, opting for a single-stage elongated spring to provide a more consistent force curve. While these general pointers give you an idea of what each switch offers, 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
56g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
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
Kailh Box spring
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Jade and the KTT Hyacinth have similar housing materials, both featuring a polycarbonate top housing. This material choice provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, their translucency makes them particularly suitable for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when comparing these switches' top housings.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Box Jade and the Hyacinth differ in their choice of material. The Box Jade utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Hyacinth also features a nylon bottom housing. This material selection has its own impact on the overall sound profile of the switches. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when compared to switches with a polycarbonate bottom housing.
It's important to note that the qualities of each housing material will affect different aspects of the switch's sound and feel. The bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down, while the top housing plays a larger role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, users can expect differences in the overall typing experience between the Kailh Box Jade and the KTT Hyacinth due to their contrasting choice of bottom housing material, but can anticipate similar sound and appearance due to their shared polycarbonate top housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch, it is evident that there are some similarities and differences between the two. In terms of weight, the Box Jade is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which falls under the medium range. On the other hand, the Hyacinth is lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 56 grams, making it medium-light.
Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, but the slight variation in force can cater to different preferences. For those who prefer a lighter switch, the Hyacinth would be an ideal choice as its lower actuation and bottom out forces offer a smoother and more effortless keystroke. This can be especially beneficial for extended typing sessions or intense gaming sessions, as it reduces the strain on the fingers.
On the contrary, individuals who prefer a more substantial and tactile typing experience might find the Box Jade more suitable. Its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces provide a satisfying level of resistance, giving users a noticeable push when typing. This can enhance the overall typing feedback and make each keystroke feel more deliberate and pronounced.
Ultimately, the choice between the Box Jade and the Hyacinth depends on personal preference and typing style. While both switches offer a medium-weight feel, the Box Jade leans towards a heavier experience, whereas the Hyacinth provides a lighter touch. By considering one's desired typing experience and the intended usage of the keyboard, users can make an informed decision on which switch would best suit their needs.
Travel distance
The travel distances of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch are quite similar, with the Box Jade having a travel distance of 3.6 mm and the Hyacinth having 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 who prioritize faster response times. Choosing the shorter option, in this case the Hyacinth, may provide a more responsive typing experience. However, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel abrupt. If you prefer a deeper key press, the Box Jade with its slightly longer travel distance would be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference for either a shorter and more responsive feel or a longer and more substantial typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Kailh Box Jade comes in at $5.50 per 10 switches.
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 Kailh Box Jade clicky switch is known for its high-pitched and crunchy sound. These switches produce a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, perfect for those who prefer a more high-pitched sound profile. The Hyacinth linear switch, on the other hand, is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate sound profile that is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you are planning to use it at home or work. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch offers an accented and invigorating typing experience. Accented switches provide a medium amount of tactility, not overwhelming, yet also not subtle. They offer a satisfying amount of tactile feedback without being too scratchy. Additionally, these switches have a moderate to firm actuation force, resulting in a snappy and reactive feel that creates an immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch is described as having a silky feel. These switches offer an exceptionally smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. They provide a gentle and subtle resistance, maintaining a light typing feel. Furthermore, the Hyacinth switch's sound signature is not resonant, making it suitable for use in shared spaces.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch offer different experiences in terms of sound and feel. The Box Jade provides a high-pitched sound profile with crispy clicks and crunchy tactile bumps, offering a medium-heavy typing experience. The Hyacinth, on the other hand, has a neutral sound profile with a design choice of a 3.5mm travel distance. This switch aims to provide an ideal balance between tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort, utilizing a single-stage elongated spring for more consistent force curve. The Box Jade offers an invigorating and accented feel with pronounced feedback, while the Hyacinth offers a silky and subtle feel with a smooth typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, you can choose the switch that suits your needs. However, it's important to consider other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, as they can also impact the overall sound and feel of the switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and tactility, then the Kailh Box Jade switches are perfect for you. You will love the crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps when typing on them. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a design that focuses on a balanced tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort, then the KTT Hyacinth linear switches are a great choice. The Hyacinth switches have a slightly lighter bottom out force and feature a 3.5mm travel distance to avoid a hard bottoming-out experience. Additionally, the Hyacinth switches use a single-stage elongated spring for a more consistent force curve. In terms of sound, the Box Jade switches have a high-pitched and crunchy sound, while the Hyacinth switches have a neutral sound profile. When it comes to feel, the Box Jade switches offer an accented and invigorating typing sensation, while the Hyacinth switches provide a silky and subtle typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on your personal preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and overall feel.
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