KTT Hyacinth vs. Gateron Jupiter Brown
An in-depth look at the KTT Hyacinth and the Gateron Jupiter Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch are two popular options worth comparing. The Hyacinth stands out for its 3.5mm travel distance, aiming to provide a balanced tactile feedback and user comfort by avoiding a hard bottoming-out experience. In contrast, the Jupiter Brown offers a more traditional tactile feel with a medium-heavy weight, along with high-precision molds and enhanced backlight effects for aesthetic appeal. While the Hyacinth is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Silky', 'Subtle', the Jupiter Brown is labeled as 'Mild', 'Polished', 'Stepped'. Both switches have unique features that make them desirable choices for different preferences; however, 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
55g
Bottom-out force
56g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Spring steel
Housing materials
Both the KTT Hyacinth and the Gateron Jupiter Brown use polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's relatively stiff nature, which enhances resonance and clarity in the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting, as it allows for better light dispersion. With both switches using the same material for their top housing, users can expect similar sound characteristics and aesthetic benefits when typing on either the Hyacinth or the Jupiter Brown.
In terms of their bottom housing material, the Hyacinth features a nylon bottom housing while the Jupiter Brown also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a rounder and duller sound that adds depth to the overall typing experience. With both switches using nylon for their bottom housing, users can expect a similar typing sound and feel that emphasizes a more resonant and impactful bottom-out sound compared to switches with harder bottom housings.
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Hyacinth and the Gateron Jupiter Brown, it is evident that the differences lie primarily in the bottom housing material. While both switches feature polycarbonate for their top housing, providing a sharper and crisper sound profile, the use of nylon for the bottom housing of both switches results in a deeper and fuller sound when typing. Ultimately, the split between the qualities of the top and bottom housings impacts the sound and feel of each switch, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has more of an impact on the sound when releasing a key.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, it is clear that the Hyacinth is the lighter option overall. The Hyacinth has an actuation force of 45 grams, which is lighter than the Jupiter Brown's 55 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Hyacinth requires 56 grams compared to the Jupiter Brown's 70 grams, indicating a lighter typing experience overall with the Hyacinth switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Hyacinth more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who prefer a more substantial push feel may lean towards the Jupiter Brown for a heavier typing experience. Both switches provide different levels of force, catering to different preferences for typing or gaming needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, it is evident that the Hyacinth has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Jupiter Brown's 4 mm. The difference may seem small, but it can have a noticeable impact on typing or gaming experience. The Hyacinth's shorter travel distance is likely to appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times, while the Jupiter Brown's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for those who prefer a deeper key press. Ultimately, both switches offer unique benefits based on personal preference, ensuring that users can choose the option that best suits their typing style and needs.
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 Jupiter Brown comes in at $2.80 per 10 switches.
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 KTT Hyacinth linear switch is known for its neutral profile, offering a moderate actuation force and sound that is suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch's sound characteristics are not explicitly described, but it can be assumed to be in the middle ground of sound profiles due to its medium-heavy weight and tactile nature. Both switches can deliver similar results in sound depending on the other factors influencing the typing experience, such as the keyboard layout and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch is renowned for its silky typing experience, providing smooth key presses with minimal resistance. Additionally, it offers a subtle tactile feedback without being too pronounced or loud, making it suitable for shared spaces. In contrast, the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch is described as mild, polished, and stepped, offering a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and a refined finish. While the feel between the two switches may vary slightly due to their different tactile profiles and weightings, both switches aim to provide a comfortable and pleasant typing experience to users.
Considering all the available information, it is evident that both the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch have their unique qualities that cater to different user preferences. The Hyacinth focuses on a balanced tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort with its 3.5mm travel distance and single-stage elongated spring. On the other hand, the Jupiter Brown offers a classic keystroke feel with a medium-heavy weight and high-precision molds. Depending on whether the user prioritizes a smooth typing experience with minimal resistance or a gentle tactile feel with a refined finish, they can choose between the Hyacinth or Jupiter Brown switches to suit their typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT Hyacinth linear switch or the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, here are some guidelines for you to consider. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a smooth typing experience with a 3.5mm travel distance, the Hyacinth switch would be a good choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a more classic keystroke feel with a single-stage spring, the Jupiter Brown switch might be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for bottom out force, typing experience, and overall design of the switch. Both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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