TTC Flaming Purple vs. KTT Hyacinth
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Purple and the KTT Hyacinth switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Flaming Purple and the KTT Hyacinth mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Flaming Purple is known for its resonant character, with a slightly bassier sound signature that adds a poppy undertone to keystrokes. It also boasts a feathery nature with a low bottom-out force of just 47g, making it effortless to type on. On the other hand, the Hyacinth stands out for its 3.5mm travel distance, aiming to provide a balance between tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort. It deviates from the norm by using a single-stage elongated spring for a more consistent force curve. Each switch has its own qualities that may appeal to different users based on their preferences and typing style; 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
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
47g
Bottom-out force
56g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
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
23mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
The TTC Flaming Purple and KTT Hyacinth both use polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. In terms of sound quality, the stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile, making it an ideal material for the top housing of a switch.
On the other hand, the Flaming Purple and Hyacinth differ in their choice of bottom housing material. The Flaming Purple utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Hyacinth also uses nylon for its bottom housing, so the typing experience will be similar in terms of sound and feel between the two switches.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the Flaming Purple and Hyacinth switches offers a balanced sound profile. The split between the qualities of the bottom and top housing materials allows for a unique typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. Whether you choose the Flaming Purple or the Hyacinth, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with a blend of sharpness, depth, and clarity in the sound profile.
Weight
The TTC Flaming Purple linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 47 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a medium-light bottom out force of 56 grams, providing a more substantial feel for those who prefer a bit more resistance while typing. For those looking for a similar typing experience in terms of force required, both switches offer a relatively light actuation force, but the Flaming Purple would be the lighter option overall. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for typing feel and force required for a satisfying typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Flaming Purple linear switch with a travel distance of 3.6mm and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch with a travel distance of 3.5mm both fall into the category of shorter travel distances. Both switches offer a quick and responsive typing experience, making them ideal for gamers or those looking for speed. The slight difference of 0.1mm between the two may not be noticeable to most users, so in terms of travel distance, they would provide similar results. However, for those who are more sensitive to minor variations in travel distance, the Flaming Purple would be the shorter option, while the Hyacinth would be the longer. Ultimately, the choice between the two would come down to personal preference for the feel of the switch when typing.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flaming Purple has an MSRP of $8.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Purple for $4.30.
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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch is known for its bassy and resonant characteristics, offering a deeper and richer sound profile with a touch of a poppy undertone. On the other hand, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users and environments. The difference in sound between these two switches lies in the Flaming Purple's emphasis on bassier tones compared to the more neutral tone of the Hyacinth.
In terms of feel, the TTC Flaming Purple switch is praised for its feathery and easy-to-press nature, providing a light typing experience that reduces finger fatigue and enhances comfort during extended typing sessions. In contrast, the KTT Hyacinth switch is described as silky and subtle, offering a smooth typing experience with gentle resistance, ideal for users seeking a light but not feather-light typing feel. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing experience, but the Flaming Purple leans towards a lighter actuation force, while the Hyacinth focuses on smoothness and subtlety.
Overall, the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch stands out for its resonant sound profile and feathery feel, making it an enticing choice for users looking for a keyboard switch with engaging auditory flair and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch prioritizes a balanced tactile feedback and user comfort with its design choice of a shorter travel distance and single-stage elongated spring. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, users can choose between the bassy and feathery qualities of the Flaming Purple or the neutral and silky attributes of the Hyacinth. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Flaming Purple and KTT Hyacinth linear switches, consider the characteristics that best suit your preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a lighter bottom-out force and enjoy a slightly bassier and resonant sound profile, the Flaming Purple may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly higher bottom-out force and value a smooth and subtle typing experience with a gentle resistance, the Hyacinth could be the perfect fit for your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences, so choose based on what resonates with you the most.