KTT Hyacinth vs. PH Studio Jacaranda
An in-depth look at the KTT Hyacinth and the PH Studio Jacaranda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Hyacinth and the PH Studio Jacaranda mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches, we can see some distinct differences in their design and performance. The Hyacinth, with its 3.5mm travel distance and single-stage elongated spring, aims to provide a balance between tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort. On the other hand, the Jacaranda boasts a gentle bottom-out of 43.5g and an extended 22mm spring, offering a bouncy sensation and a clacky sound signature that enhances the typing experience. While the Hyacinth is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Silky', and 'Subtle', the Jacaranda is categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Silky', and 'Resonant'. If you prefer a smoother typing experience with a focus on user comfort, the Hyacinth may be the choice for you. However, if you enjoy a more tactile and auditory typing experience with a bouncy sensation, the Jacaranda might be the better option. Regardless, 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
45g
Actuation force
39g
Bottom-out force
56g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
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 spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Hyacinth and the PH Studio Jacaranda differ in their top housing material. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for being relatively stiffer, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. In terms of sound profile, both switches will likely produce similar results due to the shared use of polycarbonate in their top housing.
However, where the two switches diverge is in their bottom housing material. The Hyacinth utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, the Jacaranda also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile.
Overall, the use of different housing materials in the top and bottom of the switches allows for a unique typing experience with each keypress. The qualities of the bottom housing material have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in housing materials between the KTT Hyacinth and the PH Studio Jacaranda, both switches offer a distinctive typing experience that is influenced by the characteristics of their respective housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Hyacinth linear switch to the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, it is evident that the Jacaranda is the lighter option with an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Hyacinth is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 45 grams and bottom out force of 56 grams. The Jacaranda offers a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a more effortless keystroke, perfect for long typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Hyacinth provides a slightly more substantial typing experience due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches offer a smooth linear feel, but the Hyacinth requires a bit more force for activation and bottoming out compared to the Jacaranda. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, it is evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, users will experience a consistent distance traveled from top to bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both the Hyacinth and Jacaranda linear switches offer similar results and performance. It is worth noting that having a consistent travel distance can lead to a more uniform typing experience, regardless of which switch is being used. Overall, both switches provide a standard travel distance for users looking for a linear switch option.
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 PH Studio Jacaranda has an MSRP of $3.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jacaranda for $3.30.
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 noted for its neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is described as clacky, high-pitched, and resonant, providing a sharp, crisp, and immersive auditory experience with each keystroke. Depending on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard, users may gravitate towards the neutral sound of the Hyacinth or the more vibrant sound of the Jacaranda.
When it comes to feel, both the Hyacinth and Jacaranda linear switches are described as offering a silky typing experience. This indicates that both switches provide an exceptionally smooth feel when typing, minimizing resistance and enhancing overall typing comfort. While the Hyacinth is also noted for its subtle resistance and lack of a resonant sound signature, the Jacaranda's extended 22mm spring adds a bouncy sensation to each keystroke, setting it apart from the smoother yet equally satisfying feel of the Hyacinth.
In conclusion, the KTT Hyacinth and PH Studio Jacaranda linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Hyacinth provides a neutral sound profile and a silky smooth typing experience with subtle resistance, while the Jacaranda delivers a clacky, high-pitched, and resonant sound signature along with a uniquely bouncy typing sensation. Choosing between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience, with both switches offering top-tier quality and performance in their own right.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT Hyacinth linear switch or the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, it really comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-light bottom-out force and a design focused on tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort, then the Hyacinth switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom-out force, a clacky sound profile, and a uniquely bouncy typing experience thanks to the extended spring, then the Jacaranda switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, both switches offer smooth typing experiences but with different characteristics in terms of force, sound, and feel. Consider your preferences and typing habits to determine which switch aligns best with your needs and preferences.
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