KTT Hyacinth vs. Keygeek Keygeek Raw
An in-depth look at the KTT Hyacinth and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Hyacinth and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw mechanical keyboard switches, it's evident that they both offer unique features and qualities that cater to different preferences. The Hyacinth stands out for its 3.5mm travel distance, aiming to provide a comfortable typing experience without the harsh bottoming-out sensation commonly associated with longer stem switches. In contrast, the Keygeek Raw distinguishes itself with a blend of materials that create a creamy and lightweight switch, perfect for those who prefer a slightly textured feel. While the Hyacinth focuses on tactile feedback and auditory experience with its single-stage elongated spring, the Keygeek Raw offers a starting point for enthusiasts looking to hand-lube their switches. These distinctions make choosing between the two switches a matter of personal preference, but beyond these generalities, diving deeper into their individual characteristics will help you make the best decision for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
56g
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon & UPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Hyacinth and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profile and feel. The Hyacinth's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for those looking for a more resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw's Nylon & UPE blend top housing offers a different sound profile exclusive to Keygeek Raw switches. While both materials are designed to enhance sound quality, they differ in terms of the specific tones they produce.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Hyacinth's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, perfect for those who prefer a rounder sound while typing. The Keygeek Raw's UMPE & Si blend bottom housing, unique to their switches, provides yet another option for enthusiasts seeking a different typing experience. While both materials absorb sound to varying degrees, they offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in typing sound and feel.
When using switches with different top and bottom housing materials, the typing experience is split between the two components. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. While the qualities of the housing materials may vary between the two switches, users can expect a unique and customizable typing experience based on their preference for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch, it is evident that there are some significant differences. The Hyacinth has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Keygeek Raw, which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Hyacinth requires 56 grams of force while the Keygeek Raw needs 57.5 grams, making the Keygeek Raw the heavier option in terms of bottom out force. Both switches provide a medium typing experience, but the slight difference in bottom out force may be noticeable for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, those looking for a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Hyacinth, while those who prefer a slightly heavier touch may prefer the Keygeek Raw.
Travel distance
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the 3.5 mm travel distance of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch. Both switches fall within the shorter end of the spectrum when it comes to travel distances, making them ideal for those seeking faster response times, such as gamers. However, the difference of 0.1 mm between the two switches may not be significant to most users, as both offer a relatively quick key press experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of tactile feedback and keypress depth.
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 Keygeek Keygeek Raw has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keygeek Raw for $3.51.
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, both the KTT Hyacinth and Keygeek Keygeek Raw switches are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they offer a moderate actuation force requirement and sound profile, making them suitable for a wide range of users and settings. Of course, the actual sound of the switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Hyacinth is characterized as providing a silky typing experience, offering exceptional smoothness and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw switch is described as having a textured feel, which means it may have noticeable friction when pressed. However, it also offers a subtle and mild typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone, suitable for most users.
Overall, both the Hyacinth and Keygeek Raw switches offer unique qualities that cater to different user preferences. The Hyacinth focuses on delivering a silky smooth typing experience with a neutral sound profile, while the Keygeek Raw switch combines a textured feel with a slightly lightweight and creamy touch. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between these switches for a tailored mechanical keyboard experience. And, considering their similar neutral sound profiles, users can expect comparable results in terms of sound despite the differences in feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch, you should consider your preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a smooth typing experience with a balance of tactile feedback and comfort, the KTT Hyacinth switch with a 3.5mm travel distance and single-stage elongated spring would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a creamy yet lightweight switch that can be easily hand-lubed, the Keygeek Raw switch with its unique material blend of Nylon, UMPE, and Silicon would be a good fit. Both switches have moderate actuation forces and sound profiles, making them suitable for various environments and user levels. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the specific characteristics you value in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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