KTT Hyacinth vs. Gateron Ink Box Black
An in-depth look at the KTT Hyacinth and the Gateron Ink Box Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Hyacinth and Gateron Ink Box Black are both linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features and characteristics for users to consider. The Hyacinth stands out for its design choice of a 3.5mm travel distance, which aims to provide a comfortable typing experience by avoiding the hard bottoming-out sensation commonly found in switches with longer stems. Additionally, the Hyacinth utilizes a single-stage elongated spring, resulting in a more consistent force curve. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black switches are praised for their incredibly smooth and creamy feel, reminiscent of shaking a spray paint can. They offer a clacky and high-pitched sound signature that some users may find desirable. These switches provide a polished typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
56g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Hyacinth and the Gateron Ink Box Black switches have distinct differences. The Hyacinth utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper and crisper sound profile. The relatively stiffer polycarbonate creates a clear and resonant sound. This material is also beneficial for those looking to use RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the Ink Box Black employs Gateron's proprietary INK blend top housing, giving it a pointed and high-pitched sound profile. This unique blend delivers a satisfying clacky sound without being overly sharp.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the Hyacinth uses nylon, offering a classic switch housing material. Typing on switches with nylon housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black features Gateron's INK blend bottom housing, delivering a pointed and high-pitched sound similar to its top housing. The thin and higher-pitched sound adds to the overall clacky experience of using these switches.
It's important to note that the impact of the housing materials differs depending on whether it's the top or bottom housing. The bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Hyacinth and Ink Box Black may have contrasting housing materials, their overall sound profiles may end up being similar due to the split qualities between the top and bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, the main difference lies in the actuation force and bottom out force. The Hyacinth has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Ink Box Black's 60 grams. This means that the Hyacinth requires a slightly lighter touch to register a keystroke. Similarly, when it comes to bottom out force, the Hyacinth is also lighter with a force of 56 grams, while the Ink Box Black requires a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Hyacinth would be the ideal choice as its actuation and bottom out forces are both on the medium-light side. This makes it suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions where comfort and extended use are important factors.
On the other hand, the Ink Box Black is more suited for individuals who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience. With its medium-heavy actuation and bottom out forces, it offers a satisfying tactile feedback for those who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke.
In conclusion, the KTT Hyacinth offers a lighter touch with medium-light actuation and bottom out forces, while the Gateron Ink Box Black provides a heavier, more substantial feel with medium-heavy forces. Depending on individual preference and desired typing experience, one can choose between the two based on their preference for lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, it is clear that they have very similar distances. The Hyacinth has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Ink Box Black has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Although the difference of 0.1 mm may seem negligible, it can make a difference depending on personal preference. For gamers who prioritize fast response times, the Hyacinth with its shorter travel distance may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key may opt for the Ink Box Black with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer comparable travel distances, providing users with similar results in terms of the distance they need to travel when pressing a key.
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 Gateron Ink Box Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Box Black for $7.65.
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 is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it produces a moderate and balanced sound when pressed, making it suitable for a wide range of uses, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, or whether you plan to use it at home or work. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black is described as clacky and high-pitched. When pressed, it produces a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. If you prefer a switch with a more rich and bassy sound profile, the higher-pitched Ink Box Black may be a good choice. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the KTT Hyacinth and Gateron Ink Box Black switches offer a silky typing experience. This means that they provide an exceptionally smooth feel when typing, enhancing overall smoothness and reducing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Additionally, the Hyacinth is described as having a subtle resistance and a non-resonant sound signature, making it suitable for shared spaces. The Ink Box Black, on the other hand, is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. This can be attributed to either the materials used or factory lubrication, which reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the KTT Hyacinth and Gateron Ink Box Black switches have different subjective qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The Hyacinth offers a neutral sound profile and a subtle resistance with a non-resonant sound signature, while the Ink Box Black produces a clacky, high-pitched sound. However, both switches provide a silky typing experience, offering exceptionally smooth key travel and minimizing resistance. If you are looking for a switch with a balanced sound and a gentle resistance, the Hyacinth may be a suitable choice. If you prefer a switch with a more crisp and percussive sound, the Ink Box Black could be a good option. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preferences and the specific use case.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and priorities. If you prioritize a lighter bottom out force and a design that aims for balance between tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort, the Hyacinth is a great choice. It offers a moderate sound profile and a silky typing feel, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users in various environments.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, the Ink Box Black might be the switch for you. It also provides a silky typing feel and a polished finish for a smooth and refined typing experience.
Overall, both switches have their unique qualities and offer smooth typing experiences, so you can't go wrong with either choice. Consider your preferences for force, sound, and feel to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Mentioned in this article
