Huano Grape Orange vs. KTT Hyacinth
An in-depth look at the Huano Grape Orange and the KTT Hyacinth switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Grape Orange and KTT Hyacinth present two compelling options for users seeking a linear typing experience, but each offers a unique approach to comfort and performance. The Grape Orange, with its ultra-low 40g actuation force, is celebrated for delivering an exceptionally light and effortless typing feel that makes it particularly appealing for prolonged typing sessions. In contrast, the KTT Hyacinth distinguishes itself with a 3.5mm travel distance designed to mitigate the harsh bottoming-out sensation oftentimes found in longer-stem switches, while also utilizing a single-stage elongated spring to ensure a stable and consistent force curve. While the Grape Orange might be ideal for those prioritizing ease of use during lengthy tasks, the Hyacinth caters to users looking for a harmonious blend of tactile feedback and auditory satisfaction. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
56g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
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
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Huano Grape Orange and the KTT Hyacinth switches exhibit significant similarities that give them comparable sound profiles and aesthetic qualities. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, allowing for a resonant sound that is appealing, particularly for those who enjoy the acoustics of mechanical switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially advantageous for setups that incorporate RGB lighting, enhancing the overall visual experience by allowing light to pass through the housing. As a result, users of both the Grape Orange and Hyacinth will benefit from a clear sound profile when typing or gaming, regardless of their choice of switch.
In contrast, the bottom housing of the switches distinguishes their sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Grape Orange and the KTT Hyacinth both utilize nylon as their bottom housing material. Nylon’s relatively softer composition results in a deeper and fuller sound compared to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. This inherent quality of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, leading to a rounder and more muted sound profile that contrasts with the sharper tones produced by their polycarbonate tops. While both switches benefit from the characteristics of their nylon bottoms, the sound produced during bottoming out is notably different from the sound experienced during release, thanks to the divergent properties of the materials used.
Ultimately, the combination of the same polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in both the Huano Grape Orange and the KTT Hyacinth establishes a cohesive performance in terms of sound and feel. The high-pitched clarity from the polycarbonate will shine through during key releases, while the softer nylon will create a more comforting bottom-out experience. This blend of materials results in switches that appeal to users seeking both aesthetic beauty through RGB compatibility and auditory satisfaction through rich, layered sound profiles. As such, whether one chooses the Grape Orange or the Hyacinth, they can expect similar outcomes in terms of sound and experience due to the shared housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Grape Orange has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a lightweight feel for prolonged typing sessions. In contrast, the Hyacinth features a medium-light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 56 grams, providing somewhat more resistance that may appeal to users seeking a more substantial typing experience. Therefore, while both switches are relatively light, the Grape Orange is the lighter option overall. In summary, if you prioritize ease of typing for extended periods, the Grape Orange may be the better fit, whereas the Hyacinth could be preferable for those who enjoy a slightly heftier tactile response.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch, we find that the Grape Orange has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Hyacinth is slightly shorter at 3.5 mm. This makes the Grape Orange the better option for those who prefer a deeper, more tactile feel, as it provides a greater travel distance that could enhance the typing experience for users who favor a more pronounced key press. Conversely, the Hyacinth, with its shorter 3.5 mm travel distance, may be more appealing to gamers or users seeking rapid response times, as it allows for quicker actuation. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference regarding key feel and desired responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Grape Orange has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Grape Orange for $2.79.
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 Grape Orange switch is relatively unknown in terms of its specific sonic characteristics, leaving a gap in understanding how it compares to other linear switches. On the other hand, the KTT Hyacinth is recognized for its neutral sound profile, striking a balance between quiet operation and audible feedback. Its moderate sound level makes it versatile enough for various settings, whether it be at home or in an office environment. Therefore, if noise levels are a concern, KTT Hyacinth would be the safer choice, while the Grape Orange’s sound profile remains an unknown factor, potentially leaving users to experiment or discover through personal experience.
In terms of feel, the Grape Orange offers an exceptionally light and effortless typing experience with its ultra-low 40g actuation force, making it particularly appealing for long typing sessions where comfort and ease of typing are paramount. In contrast, the Hyacinth switch features a silky smooth feel, coupled with subtle resistance, which combines lightness with a refined tactile experience. Its unique single-stage elongated spring design further contributes to a consistent force curve, minimizing resistance during key presses and releases while preventing the hard bottoming-out sensation common in other switches. For typists who prioritize smoothness without overly pronounced feedback, the Hyacinth may be particularly enticing.
In summary, while the Huano Grape Orange linear switch shines with its lightweight actuation ideal for prolonged use, the KTT Hyacinth offers a smoother typing experience and a neutral sound profile that caters to shared environments. For those looking for a lighter switch experience that might translate into less fatigue while typing, the Grape Orange is a strong contender. However, for users desiring a silkier feel and the versatility of sound, the KTT Hyacinth stands out with its carefully engineered design. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal typing preferences and environments, and both are likely to deliver enjoyable typing experiences tailored to individual needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, the choice between the Huano Grape Orange and KTT Hyacinth linear switches ultimately comes down to your preferences for typing feel, sound, and the intended use environment. If you are someone who values a light and effortless typing experience, the Grape Orange switch, with its low 40g actuation force and 50g bottom-out force, can provide you with an easy and fluid typing experience that is particularly suitable for long writing sessions or gaming marathons. Additionally, if you prefer a switch that minimizes auditory distractions, the Grape Orange's sound profile may also be more aligned with your needs. On the other hand, if you seek a smoother and more consistent typing experience, the KTT Hyacinth switch, with its medium-light 56g bottom-out force and a unique design that includes a 3.5mm travel distance, offers a silky sensation while typing. This switch is ideal for users who appreciate subtle feedback and a balanced auditory experience, making it quite versatile for both professional and casual environments. In essence, choose the Grape Orange for lightness and less sound, while opting for the Hyacinth if you value smoothness and a consistent force curve along with a comfortable feel.
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