Kailh Box Navy vs. KTT Hyacinth
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the KTT Hyacinth switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that will provide a heavy typing experience and a satisfying clicky sound, the Kailh Box Navy switches are an excellent choice. These switches are reminiscent of the vintage buckling keyboards of the 80s, offering a sharp and resonant feel with invigorating tactility. On the other hand, if you prefer a more balanced approach to your typing experience, the KTT Hyacinth switches may be the better option. These linear switches stand out for their design choice of a 3.5mm travel distance, which aims to prevent the common issue of hard bottoming-out. The Hyacinth switches also differentiate themselves by using a single-stage elongated spring, resulting in a more consistent force curve. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
90g
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 Navy and KTT Hyacinth switches both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, polycarbonate's stiffness contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. Therefore, in terms of sound and visual effects, both the Box Navy and Hyacinth switches offer similar results.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the Box Navy and Hyacinth switches differ in material, with the former using nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Hyacinth also features a nylon bottom housing, indicating that it also elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the characteristics of this material.
When it comes to the overall experience of typing on these switches, it is important to note that the qualities of the top and bottom housings are split between the two. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Therefore, while the housing materials may differ between the Box Navy and Hyacinth switches, the overall typing experience will have similarities due to the shared characteristics of polycarbonate in the top housing and nylon in the bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch, there are notable differences in weight. The Box Navy switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and an even heavier bottom out force of 90 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Hyacinth switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a comparatively lighter bottom out force of 56 grams, offering a medium-light touch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Hyacinth switch would be a suitable choice as it allows for comfortable typing over extended periods. However, for individuals seeking a more forceful and satisfying keystroke, the Box Navy switch would be a better option. Albeit not explicitly mentioned, it is safe to assume that both switches have distinct actuation and bottom out forces, resulting in different tactile experiences.
Travel distance
Both the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch have travel distances that fall within the range of what is considered standard. The Box Navy has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, slightly longer than the 3.5 mm travel distance of the Hyacinth. While the difference may seem negligible, it can have an impact on the overall typing experience. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Hyacinth as it allows for faster response times. On the other hand, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance too abrupt and prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the Box Navy for a more satisfying keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference and the specific requirements of your typing or gaming needs.
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 Navy 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
When it comes to sound, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch offers a resonant and crunchy experience. Typing on these switches produces a higher-pitched sound profile, creating an immersive auditory experience. The sound is clean and sharp, reminiscent of the satisfying sound of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch provides a neutral sound profile. It offers a moderate sound profile that is suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or work. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch provides a sharp, invigorating, and stiff typing experience. These tactile switches have a strong and crisp tactile bump that is felt distinctly with each keypress. The feedback intensity is high, offering a snappy and reactive feel that creates an immersive typing sensation. They also require a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out compared to other switches. On the other hand, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch offers a silky and subtle typing experience. These switches are exceptionally smooth, enhancing the overall smoothness and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. They provide gentle resistance, maintaining a light typing feel. Additionally, the sound signature is not resonant, making them suitable for shared spaces.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch is best suited for those who seek a heavy typing experience and enjoy the vintage aesthetic of clicky switches. They offer a resonant and crunchy sound profile, sharp tactile feedback, and require a higher amount of force to actuate. On the other hand, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch offers a more balanced approach. It is designed to provide an optimal balance between tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort. The Hyacinth offers a neutral sound profile, a silky and smooth typing feel, and a subtle resistance. Both switches offer unique qualities, allowing users to choose based on their preferences. If a user enjoys the feel of the Box Navy but prefers a more neutral sound profile, they can expect similar results from the Hyacinth in terms of feel.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are seeking a heavy typing experience and love the sound signature and tactility of a clicky switch, then the Kailh Box Navy switches are a perfect fit for you. Their heftiness and sound signature hark back to the vintage buckling keyboards of the 80s. On the other hand, if you prefer a more moderate actuation force requirement and a neutral sound profile, the KTT Hyacinth linear switches are the better choice. The Hyacinth switches stand out for their design choice of a 3.5mm travel distance, which creates an ideal balance between tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort. Additionally, the Hyacinth deviates from the mainstream trend of using dual-stage elongated springs, instead opting for a single-stage elongated spring to provide a more consistent force curve.
When it comes to sound, the Box Navy offers a resonant and crunchy sound profile, perfect for those who enjoy a higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Hyacinth provides a neutral sound profile, suitable for various purposes and environments.
In terms of feel, the Box Navy delivers a sharp, invigorating, and stiff typing experience with its strong and crisp tactile bump. However, the Hyacinth offers a silky and subtle typing feel, enhancing smoothness and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The Hyacinth's subtle resistance also ensures it is suitable for shared spaces where a resonant sound profile would be unwelcome.
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch depends on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. Consider the level of actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel that align with your needs and preferences. Whether you crave the heavy and nostalgic typing experience of the Box Navy or the balanced and smooth feel of the Hyacinth, both switches offer distinct advantages and can greatly enhance your mechanical keyboard typing experience.
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