KTT Darling vs. KTT Hyacinth
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the KTT Hyacinth switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Darling and the KTT Hyacinth both offer unique features to consider. The KTT Darling, a linear switch, boasts a typing sensation that is chewy and substantial, with a pronounced bounciness that adds a springy responsiveness to each keystroke. It delivers a resonant, high-pitched sound upon bottoming out, providing a blend of tactile and auditory feedback. On the other hand, the KTT Hyacinth stands out for its design choice of a 3.5mm travel distance, aiming to create an ideal balance between tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort. While the Darling is categorized as bouncy, clacky, high-pitched, and resonant, the Hyacinth is characterized as neutral, silky, and subtle. Both switches have their own strengths and considerations for those in search of the perfect typing experience; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
56g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Darling and the KTT Hyacinth, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, in terms of sound quality and aesthetics, both the Darling and the Hyacinth share similar benefits when it comes to their top housing material.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Darling and the Hyacinth differ slightly. The Darling utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Hyacinth also uses nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile. Both switches offer a more subdued sound when compared to switches with harder bottom housing materials, providing a quieter typing experience overall.
Overall, the differences between the Darling and the Hyacinth lie primarily in their top housing materials. While both switches offer similar benefits in terms of sound profile and aesthetics with their polycarbonate top housing, the Darling's nylon bottom housing may provide a slightly deeper sound compared to the Hyacinth. However, since both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, the typing experience in terms of sound profile is ultimately quite similar between the two. Whether choosing the Darling or the Hyacinth, users can expect a unique typing experience with a focus on clarity and resonance in sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Darling switch has a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Hyacinth switch has a bottom out force of 56 grams. This makes the Darling switch slightly lighter than the Hyacinth switch when it comes to bottoming out. The Darling switch would be better suited for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, the Hyacinth switch would be preferred by those who enjoy a slightly heavier feel for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer a medium-light actuation force, providing a balance between responsiveness and comfort during typing or gaming sessions.
Travel distance
The KTT Darling linear switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.5mm. This means that both switches provide a consistent typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Whether you choose the Darling or the Hyacinth, you can expect similar results in terms of the keypress feel and feedback. The travel distance of 3.5mm on both switches ensures that the typing experience is smooth and responsive, making them both excellent choices for keyboard enthusiasts looking for a linear switch option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Darling has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Darling for $3.90.
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 KTT Darling linear switch is best known for its clacky, high-pitched, and resonant characteristics, creating a sharp and percussive sound that can be immersive and engaging. On the other hand, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch presents a more neutral sound profile, suitable for various purposes due to its moderate actuation force requirement. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, with the Darling leaning towards a more vibrant and lively sound, while the Hyacinth aims for a balanced and versatile sound output suitable for different environments.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Darling linear switch is characterized by its bouncy feedback, providing a spring-like sensation that enhances the typing experience with a lively feel and rebound effect. In contrast, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch offers a silky smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys, and providing a subtle and gentle typing feel with a sound signature that is more muted and suitable for shared spaces. While the Darling focuses on delivering a more energetic and tactile typing experience, the Hyacinth prioritizes smoothness and comfort for extended use.
Overall, the KTT Darling linear switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch each bring unique qualities to the table, catering to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a more lively and resonant typing experience with pronounced bounciness, the Darling switch may be the ideal choice for you. Conversely, if you lean towards a smoother and subtler typing feel with a more neutral sound profile, the Hyacinth switch would be a suitable option. Both switches excel in providing a satisfying typing sensation, offering a blend of tactile and auditory feedback that enhances the overall typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences and the specific environment in which you plan to use them.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the KTT Darling linear switch or the KTT Hyacinth linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you value a chewy and substantial typing sensation with pronounced bounciness and high-pitched sound feedback, the KTT Darling may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a 3.5mm travel distance to avoid hard bottoming-out, along with a more consistent force curve and a neutral sound profile, then the KTT Hyacinth could be the better option. Whether you prioritize a bouncy and clacky typing experience or a silky and subtle feel, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the KTT Darling and the KTT Hyacinth will depend on what attributes you value most in your mechanical keyboard switches. Choose wisely based on what best suits your typing needs and preferences.
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