KTT Hyacinth vs. Kailh BCP
An in-depth look at the KTT Hyacinth and the Kailh BCP switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Hyacinth and the Kailh Black Cherry Pie (BCP) emerge as two intriguing linear options, each bringing unique qualities to the table. The KTT Hyacinth is celebrated for its thoughtfully crafted design, featuring a 3.5mm travel distance aimed at providing a more comfortable typing experience. By utilizing a single-stage elongated spring, it ensures a consistent force curve that balances tactile feedback with user comfort, creating a smoother transition without the harsh bottoming-out sensation. In contrast, the Kailh BCP redefines the classic Black Cherry Pie switch with its custom-molded construction, which simplifies maintenance and enhances the typing experience with its creamy, bouncy feel and signature poppy sound profile. While the Hyacinth focuses on subtlety and consistency, the BCP leans into a more pronounced auditory experience. Both switches cater to specific preferences—whether you're seeking a silky touch or a more playful audible response. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your typing style and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
52g
Bottom-out force
56g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
20mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The KTT Hyacinth and the Kailh BCP provide distinct auditory experiences due to their differing top housing materials. The Hyacinth employs a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This is especially beneficial for those who enjoy the clarity often associated with high-frequency sounds, particularly when utilizing RGB lighting, as the translucent quality of polycarbonate enhances visual effects. In contrast, the Kailh BCP features a nylon top housing, recognized as a more classic switch housing material. The nylon's soft nature results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, which absorbs sound more effectively, creating a duller and rounder auditory experience. Thus, while both switches have their unique sound characteristics tied to their top housing materials, the Hyacinth emphasizes brightness and sharpness, while the BCP leans towards warmth and fullness.
When it comes to the bottom housings, both the KTT Hyacinth and Kailh BCP utilize nylon, which helps unify their auditory outputs despite the disparity in their top housing materials. Since the bottom housing significantly influences the overall feel and sound during actuation and key release, the presence of nylon in both switches creates a consistent texture and depth of sound across both models. The nylon used in the Hyacinth’s bottom housing contributes to a deeper sound profile, similar to that of the BCP, reinforcing the roundness and overall fullness of the sound produced when bottoming out. This shared bottom housing material effectively bridges the differences in top housing impacts, allowing the users to experience a smoother transition in sound characteristics when pressing down on either switch.
Ultimately, the contrasting top housing materials—polycarbonate for the Hyacinth and nylon for the BCP—highlight their individual strengths in sound profiles. However, the shared nylon bottom housing serves as a common ground, ensuring that both switches maintain a high-quality feel and resonance during operation. If a user seeks a brighter sound, they may prefer the Hyacinth, but if a warmer and fuller auditory experience is desired, the Kailh BCP may be the more suitable choice. In either case, considerable overlap in the sound produced is likely, thanks to the complementary characteristics each material brings to the switches.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces that cater to diverse user preferences. The Hyacinth features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 56 grams, classifying it as medium-light; this makes it a more suitable option for users who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing sessions or long gaming marathons. In contrast, the Kailh BCP switch has a heavier actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy range. This increased resistance can provide a more substantial typing experience for those who favor a stronger push. Ultimately, the KTT Hyacinth is the lighter option, while the Kailh BCP is the heavier one, making the choice between them largely dependent on individual typing comfort and style preferences.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch have identical travel distances of 3.5 mm, which means they provide a similar tactile experience when pressed down. Since both switches offer the same travel distance, users can expect comparable results in terms of key feel and responsiveness, making either option suitable for those seeking consistent linear switch performance. With this match in travel distance, the preference may ultimately come down to other factors such as switch feel, sound, or durability rather than travel distance alone.
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 Kailh BCP has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the BCP for $4.75.
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 provides a neutral auditory profile that works well in various environments, making it suitable whether for beginners or advanced users at home or in a professional setting. Its balanced sound profile does not dominate the acoustic space, enabling a focused typing experience without unnecessary distractions. The Kailh BCP linear switch, while not explicitly detailed in its sound characteristics, is known for a more engaging and lively auditory experience, described as having a poppy and clacky sound profile. This contrast suggests that those who prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback may gravitate towards the BCP, while those looking for a quieter and more subdued typing experience would benefit from the neutrality of the Hyacinth.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Hyacinth stands out with a silky smoothness that enhances the overall typing experience. This smoothness minimizes any resistance felt during key presses, creating a seamless flow when typing. Additionally, its subtle resistance allows for a light typing feel, making it a great choice for shared workspaces where noise and feedback can be a concern. On the other hand, the Kailh BCP linear switch is characterized by a creamy, viscous, and elastic feel, described as bouncy, which likely contributes to a lively and engaging typing experience. The contrast here suggests that if you prefer a serene and gentle feedback from your switches, the Hyacinth would be ideal, whereas the BCP would cater more toward those who enjoy an energetic and dynamic feel under their fingers.
In conclusion, while both the KTT Hyacinth and Kailh BCP linear switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel, they offer distinct experiences that accommodate various typing styles. The Hyacinth provides a neutral sound and a silky, subtle typing experience that promotes comfort and low noise, making it suitable for diverse environments. Conversely, the BCP offers a more pronounced sound profile and a fun, bouncy feel that might appeal to those who appreciate a more tactile engagement with their keyboard. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize a quiet, smooth experience or a lively and expressive typing sensation.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch will ultimately depend on your personal preferences regarding typing feel and sound profile, as well as the intended usage of your mechanical keyboard. If you prioritize a smooth, silky typing experience and a neutral sound profile that is suitable for both work and play—especially in shared environments—the KTT Hyacinth is an excellent choice. Its medium-light actuation force of 56 grams and unique design of a 3.5mm travel distance enhance comfort, making it reliable for extended typing sessions without the harsh bottoming-out sensation. On the other hand, if you desire a more tactile and engaging experience with a bouncier feel and a signature poppy sound, the Kailh BCP linear switch may be for you. With a heavier bottom-out force of 63.5 grams, the BCP is designed for users who enjoy a more pronounced feedback while typing. Therefore, consider your typing style; if you're a gentle typist who appreciates a smooth, quieter switch, lean towards the Hyacinth. Conversely, if you thrive on an energetic typing experience and don’t mind a bit of extra sound, the BCP will likely satisfy your needs.
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