KTT Hyacinth vs. TTC Ice
An in-depth look at the KTT Hyacinth and the TTC Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Hyacinth and the TTC Ice present two intriguing options for users seeking a linear experience. The Hyacinth distinguishes itself with its 3.5mm travel distance, specifically engineered to reduce the jarring sensation of bottoming out, which often comes with longer stem switches. This results in a smooth, neutral feel that emphasizes comfort without sacrificing tactile feedback or auditory pleasure. On the other hand, the TTC Ice leverages its striking crystal-clear design to not only catch the eye but also deliver a highly responsive typing experience, enhanced by a satisfying sound at bottom-out, making it a versatile choice for both gaming and everyday tasks. While the Hyacinth leans into user comfort and a consistent force curve through its single-stage elongated spring, the Ice prioritizes a premium aesthetic combined with a smooth tactile sensation. 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
56g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
24mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Hyacinth and the TTC Ice housing materials have some notable similarities, particularly in their top housing, both crafted from polycarbonate. This choice of material ensures both switches feature a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile, resulting from polycarbonate’s inherent stiffness. The translucency of this plastic is also beneficial for aesthetics, especially for those looking to integrate RGB lighting into their setups. Thus, when it comes to the auditory experience, both switches will provide a comparably clear and resonant sound, making them suitable for users who prioritize sound clarity and visual appeal.
However, the differences emerge in the bottom housing of the switches, with the Hyacinth employing nylon while the Ice opts for polycarbonate. Nylon, described as a classic switch housing material, creates a deeper and rounder sound profile due to its softer composition, which absorbs sound rather than amplifying it. Therefore, when typing on the KTT Hyacinth, users might enjoy a more subdued and fuller tone, which contrasts with the TTC Ice's sharper auditory feedback resulting from its polycarbonate bottom. This distinction highlights how different housing materials impact the overall sound experience in unique ways, leading to varying auditory responses based on bottom housing choices.
Understanding how these materials influence performance can help users make informed decisions based on their preferences. In switches like the Hyacinth, the nylon bottom housing contributes significantly to the bottom-out sound and feel, providing a unique tactile experience. Conversely, the TTC Ice relies entirely on polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, ensuring that the sonic characteristics are crisply coherent throughout. This differentiation means that while both switches feature a similar clarity in upper sound produced by their polycarbonate top housing, the overall auditory experience will be distinctly different, offering users the choice between a fuller, deeper sound or a sharp, resonant one based on their needs.
Weight
The KTT Hyacinth and TTC Ice linear switches exhibit similarities in their actuation forces, both requiring 45 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. This equivalence means that users will experience a similar level of responsiveness when activating either switch, making them suitable for extended typing sessions without substantial fatigue. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Hyacinth has a slightly lower measurement of 56 grams compared to the Ice's 60 grams. This indicates that while both switches provide a medium-light actuation, the TTC Ice switch offers a firmer bottom out experience, which some users may prefer for a more pronounced tactile feedback. In summary, the KTT Hyacinth is the lighter option with its lower bottom out force, while the TTC Ice, being slightly heavier, may appeal to those seeking a more robust feel in their typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the TTC Ice linear switch, the Hyacinth measures 3.5 mm, while the Ice has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the KTT Hyacinth the shorter option, catering to those who enjoy a more responsive typing experience often preferred by gamers. On the other hand, the TTC Ice, with its longer 3.6 mm travel distance, may appeal to users who appreciate a more substantial keystroke and feel a sense of depth when typing. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your preference for quick responsiveness or a more tactile experience.
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 TTC Ice has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice for $5.99.
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 looking at the sound profile of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch, it is noted for its neutral characteristics. This means it produces a moderate sound level during key presses, making it versatile for a variety of situations whether in a quiet home office or a bustling workspace. The Hyacinth switch strikes a balance that caters to both beginners and seasoned typists alike. On the other hand, there is no specific sound profile for the TTC Ice linear switch available in the current context. However, generally speaking, transparent switches like the Ice often provide a more pronounced sound, especially at the bottom-out point due to their construction, which can enhance acoustic feedback when typing. Ultimately, both can cater to quiet environments, but the Hyacinth will particularly excel with its more controlled and neutral sound.
Regarding tactile feel, the KTT Hyacinth switch is praised for its silky smoothness and subtle resistance. The silky action provides an exceptionally pleasant typing experience with reduced friction, allowing for ease of key presses. The subtle resistance ensures that the switches stay light and manageable without feeling too flimsy, making it suitable for long typing sessions in shared spaces where a non-resonant sound signature is appreciated. The feel of the TTC Ice switch isn't detailed here, leaving a gap in comparison. However, given its reputation for a smooth and responsive feel, one could reasonably expect both switches to provide a satisfying experience in terms of feel, offering at least a semblance of similarity in smoothness while potentially differing in tactile feedback.
In summary, both the KTT Hyacinth and TTC Ice linear switches offer unique features that appeal to different user preferences. The Hyacinth is well-regarded for its neutral sound profile and smooth, silky feel combined with subtle resistance, making it an agreeable choice for a variety of situations. While the Ice switch also promises a premium typing experience, particularly with a smoother actuation, the lack of detailed information prevents a fully informed comparison. Given the available knowledge, it's clear that while both switches target similar markets, the Hyacinth may ultimately earn favor for those needing a more controlled auditory experience along with an enjoyable feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the KTT Hyacinth and the TTC Ice linear switches, consider your specific preferences for typing feel, sound, and overall user comfort. If you lean towards a medium-light switch that prioritizes a smooth and silky typing experience with a subtle resistance, the KTT Hyacinth is your best choice. Its unique design with a 3.5mm travel distance helps reduce the hard bottoming-out sensation, making it an excellent option for extended typing sessions without fatigue. Additionally, with a neutral sound profile, it suits various environments, whether you're working from home or in a shared office space. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly firmer bottom-out force for a more pronounced tactile experience and value a visually striking design, the TTC Ice might be appealing. The Ice is engineered to deliver a smooth, responsive feel and a satisfying sound that enhances both gaming and general typing experiences. Ultimately, let your typing style and usage scenarios guide your decision; whether you prioritize comfort and subtle feedback or a more pronounced response, both switches offer quality experiences tailored to different needs.
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