KTT Hyacinth vs. Durock Ice King Linear
An in-depth look at the KTT Hyacinth and the Durock Ice King Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Hyacinth linear switch to the Durock Ice King Linear switch, it's clear that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Hyacinth stands out for its 3.5mm travel distance, aiming to provide a balanced tactile feedback and user comfort without the common hard bottoming-out experience. Additionally, the Hyacinth utilizes a single-stage elongated spring for a more consistent force curve. On the other hand, the Ice King Linear boasts a silky smooth typing experience with its full nylon construction and generous factory lube. While the Hyacinth is described as 'Neutral', 'Silky', and 'Subtle', the Ice King Linear is categorized as 'Silky', 'Frictionless', 'Subdued', 'Creamy', and 'Polished'. Each switch offers its own advantages, but diving deeper into their specific features and characteristics will help you make the best decision for your keyboard preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
52g
Bottom-out force
56g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Hyacinth and the Durock Ice King Linear, one key difference is in the top housing material. The Hyacinth features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. On the other hand, the Ice King Linear comes with a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. While both materials have their advantages, the choice between them ultimately depends on the desired sound profile.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Hyacinth and the Ice King Linear use nylon for this component. This means that both switches elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound than harder plastics. Despite the similarity in material, the specific design and construction of the bottom housing can still impact the overall sound and feel of the switch. However, in terms of housing material, users can expect a similar sound experience from both switches due to their shared use of nylon for the bottom housing.
In summary, the housing materials of the KTT Hyacinth and the Durock Ice King Linear play a significant role in determining the sound profile of these switches. While the Hyacinth's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound compared to the Ice King Linear's nylon top housing, both switches feature a nylon bottom housing that results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in sound characteristics, as the housing materials contribute uniquely to the overall typing experience.
Weight
The KTT Hyacinth linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Durock Ice King Linear switch with a slightly heavier actuation force of 52 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Hyacinth requires 56 grams to fully press down, while the Ice King Linear needs 62 grams. This makes the Hyacinth a lighter option overall, suitable for those who prefer a gentler typing experience. On the other hand, the Ice King Linear provides a slightly more substantial typing feel, making it a better choice for users who prefer a bit more resistance. Both switches fall into the medium category, but the Hyacinth leans towards the lighter side, while the Ice King Linear is slightly heavier. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, users will experience the same distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. As a result, the typing experience and feel of the switches will be similar and consistent. Therefore, whether using the Hyacinth or the Ice King Linear switch, users can expect to get comparable results in terms of travel distance and key press feel.
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 Durock Ice King Linear has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice King Linear for $4.20.
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 Hyacinth linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for most users and environments. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Linear switch offers a more subdued sound, providing a quieter typing experience compared to most switches. It's important to note that individual sound experiences can also be influenced by factors such as keyboard construction and keycap material.
When it comes to feel, both the Hyacinth and Ice King Linear switches are known for providing a silky smooth typing experience. The Hyacinth switch is also noted for its subtle tactile feedback, offering a gentle resistance without being overly pronounced. On the other hand, the Ice King Linear switch boasts a frictionless feel, with a creamy and polished finish that enhances the overall typing experience. Users can expect minimal resistance and effortless key presses with both switches.
Overall, both the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch offer exceptional qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Hyacinth provides a neutral sound and subtle tactile feedback, the Ice King Linear offers a more subdued sound profile and a frictionless typing experience. Depending on personal preferences, users can choose between these switches to achieve a smooth and enjoyable typing experience. With their emphasis on smoothness and comfort, users can expect similar results in terms of typing satisfaction with either switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch, consider the following guidelines. Choose the Hyacinth if you prefer a switch with a medium-light bottom out force, a 3.5mm travel distance to avoid hard bottoming-out, and a more consistent force curve with a neutral sound profile and silky typing feel. On the other hand, opt for the Ice King Linear if you prefer a switch with a slightly higher bottom out force, a full nylon construction with generous factory lube for a subdued sound profile, and a silky smooth typing experience with a frictionless, creamy, or polished feel. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preferences for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel.
Mentioned in this article
