Kailh Box Royal vs. KTT Hyacinth
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Royal and the KTT Hyacinth switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two notable options are the Kailh Box Royal and the KTT Hyacinth. The Box Royal is praised for its intense tactility, offering a sharp and binary feedback that is perfect for those seeking an aggressive typing experience. Additionally, it produces a relatively higher-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Hyacinth stands out for its unique design choice of a 3.5mm travel distance. It aims to provide a balanced tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort by avoiding the hard bottoming-out commonly experienced with longer-stem switches. The Hyacinth also deviates from the trend of using dual-stage elongated springs and instead opts for a single-stage elongated spring to provide a more consistent force curve. Categorized as neutral, silky, and subtle, the Hyacinth offers a different typing sensation compared to the pronounced tactility of the Box Royal. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities in order for you to make an informed decision on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Nylon
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
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Royal and the KTT Hyacinth switches differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Box Royal features a nylon top housing, which offers a softer and more absorbent quality to the switch. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. In contrast, the Hyacinth utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is a relatively stiffer plastic. This stiffness contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The polycarbonate material enhances the clarity and resonance of the switch's sound, particularly beneficial when using RGB lighting.
Similarly, the bottom housings of the Box Royal and the Hyacinth are both made of nylon. This common material brings similar qualities to the switches, eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nylon plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This consistency in material ensures that the bottom-out sound and feel of both switches will share these characteristics.
When using switches with different top and bottom housings, the qualities imparted by each housing material are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down. Conversely, the top housing plays a larger role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, the choice of housing material for each component can significantly affect the overall sound profile and tactile experience of the switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch, we can see some similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, both switches have a force of 45 grams, meaning that the initial push required to trigger a keystroke is the same for both switches. This ensures a consistent and responsive typing experience for users of either switch.
However, when it comes to bottom out force, there is a notable contrast between the two switches. The Kailh Box Royal has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. This means that users will feel a substantial resistance when fully depressing the keys, providing a satisfying and tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Hyacinth has a bottom out force of 56 grams, which is categorized as medium-light. This indicates that users may experience a lighter and smoother keystroke when fully pressing down the keys.
Considering the weight aspect, those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods may find the KTT Hyacinth more suitable. This switch can be beneficial for individuals who use their keyboards extensively during work or long gaming sessions. On the contrary, individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel and desire a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Kailh Box Royal with its heavier forces.
In conclusion, while both switches share the same actuation force, they differ in their bottom out force. The Kailh Box Royal offers a heavier and more tactile typing experience with a bottom out force of 70 grams, while the KTT Hyacinth provides a lighter and smoother typing experience with a bottom out force of 56 grams. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch is 3.6 mm, while the KTT Hyacinth linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches have a travel distance that falls within the range of what is considered standard for most keyboards. However, the slight difference in travel distance may be noticeable to some users.
For those who prioritize faster response times, the shorter travel distance of the Hyacinth switch may be more appealing. Gamers, in particular, often prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for quicker key presses and potentially faster reaction times during gameplay. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial feeling when typing or gaming may find the 3.6 mm travel distance of the Box Royal switch to be more satisfying.
Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference. If a shorter travel distance and faster response time is desired, the Hyacinth switch would be the better option. However, if a slightly deeper and more deliberate keypress is preferred, the Box Royal switch with its longer travel distance would be the more suitable choice.
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 Royal comes in at $6.25 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 Royal switch is known for its relatively higher pitched profile. These switches produce a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, making them a good choice for those who prefer a more vibrant and high-pitched sound. On the other hand, the KTT Hyacinth switch offers a neutral sound profile. This means that it produces a moderate sound that is suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user and whether you are using them at home or work. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Royal switch provides a sharp tactile experience. These switches have a strong and crisp tactile bump that is prominent and can be felt distinctly with each keypress. This intense feedback intensity is appealing to those who prefer a highly tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Hyacinth switch offers a silky feel. Silky switches are known for offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience, reducing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Additionally, the Hyacinth switch also has a subtle feel, meaning it has a gentle resistance that is not too heavy while still maintaining a light typing feel. This makes it suitable for shared spaces where a quieter typing experience is desired.
Based on the available information, the Kailh Box Royal switch provides an aggressive and sharp tactile experience with a higher pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the KTT Hyacinth switch offers a smoother and subtler tactile experience with a neutral sound profile. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a more aggressive tactile feedback and higher pitched sound, the Box Royal is a great option. If you prefer a smoother typing experience with a more neutral sound, then the Hyacinth switch would be a better fit. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you're someone who craves an intense tactile experience and prefers a higher-pitched sound profile, the Kailh Box Royal switches would be the perfect choice for you. These switches offer a sharp and binary tactility that is unmatched, making each keypress feel distinct and satisfying. However, if you prefer a smoother typing experience with a more subtle tactile feedback and a neutral sound profile, the KTT Hyacinth switches would be more suited to your preferences. With its silky smoothness and gentle resistance, the Hyacinth switches provide a comfortable typing feel while minimizing resistance and creating a sound signature that is suitable for shared spaces. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your personal preferences for tactile intensity, sound profile, and typing experience.
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