KTT Hyacinth vs. KTT Kang White
An in-depth look at the KTT Hyacinth and the KTT Kang White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Hyacinth and KTT Kang White both offer unique features that make them desirable options. The Hyacinth stands out with its design choice of a 3.5mm travel distance, aiming to provide a balanced tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort by avoiding the common hard bottoming-out experience. It also deviates from the mainstream trend by using a single-stage elongated spring for a more consistent force curve. On the other hand, the Kang White is known for its exquisite representation of a poppy linear switch with a dazzling typing sound. Its self-lubricating material provides an unparalleled smoothness while typing. Both switches have their own distinct qualities that could cater to different preferences. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision based on your personal needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
56g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the KTT Hyacinth and the KTT Kang White, both switches utilize polycarbonate as their top housing material. Polycarbonate is known to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. It offers a more clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, adding to its aesthetic appeal. Thus, both switches will provide similar results in terms of sound and visual customization.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Hyacinth and the Kang White employ nylon as their material of choice. Nylon is well-regarded as a classic switch housing material that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is attributed to nylon's softness, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. The result is a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Therefore, regardless of the switch model, users can expect a similar sound experience, characterized by a satisfying depth and resonance.
When considering the differences between the top and bottom housing materials, it becomes evident that the bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing the key. This distinction means that the qualities attributed to each housing material are divided between the top and the bottom of the switch, creating a unique combination of sound profiles. Users can expect a delightful feedback sensation when pressing down on the switch, with the bottom housing material determining the overall impact, and a distinct sound when releasing the key, influenced by the top housing material.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch, there are notable similarities and differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. Both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, meaning they require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. This ensures a consistent typing experience for users who prefer a lighter touch.
However, when it comes to bottom out force, there is a slight variation between the two switches. The Hyacinth has a bottom out force of 56 grams, which is considered medium-light, providing a comfortable typing experience without excessive force required to press the keys all the way down. On the other hand, the Kang White has a slightly higher bottom out force of 58 grams, still within the medium range. This means that the Kang White switch may provide a slightly more substantial push feel for those who prefer a bit more resistance when typing.
Weight plays a crucial role in selecting a switch, as it can greatly impact typing endurance and overall typing experience. Some users may appreciate the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Hyacinth, as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, especially during extended work or gaming sessions. The Kang White, with its slightly heavier bottom out force, may appeal to individuals who desire a more pronounced keystroke and a sense of solidity while typing.
In conclusion, while the actuation force remains the same for both switches, the Hyacinth offers a lighter bottom out force, while the Kang White provides a slightly heavier bottom out force. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the medium-light touch of the Hyacinth for extended typing sessions or the medium touch of the Kang White for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch have different travel distances. The Hyacinth has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Kang White has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Kang White has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Hyacinth.
A travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered the most traditional, while a distance of 3.0 mm is the most shallow. However, shorter travel distances have become popular in recent years, particularly among gamers who prioritize faster response times. Therefore, if you prefer a more responsive typing experience, the shorter travel distance of the Hyacinth may be a better option for you.
On the other hand, some individuals find short travel distances to be too abrupt and prefer switches with a deeper key press. In this case, the longer travel distance provided by the Kang White may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the typing experience you desire.
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 KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99 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 switch is known for its neutral profile. This means that it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and settings, whether you're a beginner or advanced, and whether you plan to use the switch at home or work. On the other hand, the KTT Kang White switch is described as having a low-pitched sound. This means that it produces a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. However, it is also described as having a neutral profile, making it versatile for different uses. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Hyacinth switch is known for its silky typing experience. A silky switch offers an exceptionally smooth typing feel, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. This enhances the overall typing experience and provides a high level of smoothness. It is also described as having a subtle resistance, which means it has a gentle resistance that is not too light but still maintains a light typing feel. Additionally, the sound signature of the Hyacinth switch is not resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces. Unfortunately, there is no available information provided regarding the feel of the KTT Kang White switch.
In conclusion, the KTT Hyacinth and KTT Kang White switches have different qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Hyacinth switch offers a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, while the Kang White switch has a low-pitched sound with a similar actuation force requirement. In terms of feel, the Hyacinth switch provides a silky and smooth typing experience with a subtle resistance, while no information is available regarding the feel of the Kang White switch. If you are looking for a switch with a neutral sound and a smooth typing experience, the Hyacinth switch would be a suitable option for you. However, if you prefer a low-pitched sound, the Kang White switch might be worth considering, although the specific feel of this switch is unknown.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a design that prioritizes tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. With its 3.5mm travel distance and single-stage elongated spring, it offers a consistent force curve and avoids the common issue of hard bottoming-out. On the other hand, if you desire a switch with an unparalleled smoothness when typing and a dazzling typing sound, the KTT Kang White linear switch is the way to go. Its self-lubricating material ensures a smooth typing experience. Additionally, the Kang White switch has a low-pitched sound profile, making it more bass-heavy and mellow compared to higher-pitched switches. Ultimately, both switches have a medium actuation force requirement, making them suitable for most intents and purposes. Overall, it depends on your specific preferences and typing needs when choosing between the KTT Hyacinth and KTT Kang White switches.
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