KTT Hyacinth vs. Neo Lavender HE
An in-depth look at the KTT Hyacinth and the Neo Lavender HE switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves contemplating the choice between the KTT Hyacinth, a linear switch, and the Neo Lavender HE, a hall effect switch. The KTT Hyacinth is renowned for its 3.5mm travel distance, designed to enhance user comfort by minimizing the jarring sensation of bottoming out that can accompany longer-stemmed switches. With its single-stage elongated spring, the Hyacinth ensures a smooth and consistent force curve, fostering a tactile experience that feels both subtle and silky. In contrast, the Neo Lavender HE offers a unique appeal with its clean, low sound and compatibility with Wooting keyboards, highlighting its innovative magnetic actuation technology. While the Hyacinth presents a perfect blend of tactile feedback and auditory experience, the Lavender HE caters to those looking for smooth keystrokes coupled with a distinct auditory signature. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
56g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
16mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the KTT Hyacinth and the Neo Lavender HE, two distinct approaches to housing materials can be observed, especially in their top housings. The KTT Hyacinth utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. In contrast, the Neo Lavender HE opts for a nylon top housing, which is a softer plastic that tends to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. This significant difference in material composition results in distinct auditory experiences; while the Hyacinth's sound may come across as bright and resonant, the Lavender HE delivers a more rounded tone, showcasing the contrasting acoustic characteristics enabled by their respective housing materials.
The bottom housings of both switches, however, reveal a commonality that influences their sound profiles in a similar manner. Both the KTT Hyacinth and Neo Lavender HE employ nylon for their bottom housings. This decision impacts the experience significantly, as nylon is known for absorbing sound and contributing to a deeper, fuller auditory output. Therefore, both switches share a similar acoustic foundation at the bottom end, which may lead to comparable results when pressing down on the keys. The nylon bottom housing helps to ensure that despite their differing top materials, users can expect a consistent depth in sound that enhances the overall typing experience.
Ultimately, when synthesizing the effects of each component, the KTT Hyacinth and Neo Lavender HE both promise unique experiences influenced by the combination of their housing materials. While the key sound profiles differ at the top due to the contrasting properties of polycarbonate and nylon, the similar nylon composition of the bottom housings ensures a fuller sound foundation in both switches. This interplay between the top and bottom housing materials means that players can expect a diversified auditory experience with the transition between key presses, bringing together the clarity of the Hyacinth and the warmth of the Lavender HE in a harmonious blend of sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Hyacinth features a medium-light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 56 grams, making it suitable for users who appreciate a balanced typing experience without overly heavy keypresses. In contrast, the Lavender HE boasts a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, appealing to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. As a result, the Hyacinth is the heavier option, while the Lavender HE is ideal for users seeking a softer keystroke feel. While both switches facilitate responsive typing experiences, the differences in their forces cater to distinct preferences, allowing users to choose based on whether they desire a more substantial tactile feedback or a lighter, breezier keypress.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch, the differences are quite clear. The Hyacinth has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Lavender HE measures at 3.8 mm. This makes the Hyacinth the shorter switch, which may appeal to users seeking faster response times, particularly in gaming scenarios where quick action is crucial. On the other hand, the Lavender HE, with its longer travel distance, offers a deeper feel that some users might prefer for a more tactile experience. This distinction provides an interesting choice: if you prioritize responsiveness, the Hyacinth may be the better option, whereas if you appreciate a more traditional keypress depth, the Lavender HE could be the ideal fit.
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 Neo Lavender HE comes in at $4.50 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 features a neutral sound profile, making it versatile for various environments whether you're working or gaming. This balanced auditory experience ensures that it won't be intrusive, appealing to both beginners and advanced users alike. On the other hand, the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch is characterized by a clean, low sound, which minimizes distractions in shared spaces. Both switches could provide a pleasant auditory experience, but while the Hyacinth leans towards a moderate sound profile, the Lavender HE is distinctly quieter, favoring a more subtle presence.
In terms of feel, the KTT Hyacinth shines with a silky smoothness and a subtle resistance. This allows for a fluid typing experience that reduces any hindrances while pressing or releasing keys, making it enjoyable for long typing sessions. The gentle resistance creates a sense of ease, enhancing comfort even within prolonged use. The tactile feedback is likely effective while not being overly loud, blending well into various settings. Unfortunately, the feel characteristics of the Lavender HE are not provided, leaving a gap in the ability to compare its tactile experience directly with the Hyacinth. However, it can be assumed that the clean auditory experience of the Lavender HE complements a well-designed typing feel.
In conclusion, both the KTT Hyacinth and Neo Lavender HE switches provide distinct advantages depending on your preferences. The Hyacinth is notable for its neutral sound profile and exceptionally smooth feel, making it an excellent choice for users who value comfort and versatility. Conversely, the Lavender HE excels with its low auditory presence, making it ideal for quiet environments. Without specific data on the tactile feedback of the Lavender HE, it's challenging to make a complete comparison; however, users can expect that each switch offers an enjoyable typing experience tailored to their unique needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing environment. If you prefer a switch that offers a slightly heavier bottom-out force and a smooth, silky typing experience with subtle resistance, the KTT Hyacinth is an excellent choice. Its design minimizes the harshness of bottoming out, making it comfortable for prolonged typing sessions, whether at work or home. On the other hand, if you value a very light actuation force combined with a clean, low sound profile—ideal for quiet environments—the Neo Lavender HE is the better option. This switch works seamlessly with Wooting keyboards and provides a unique tactile experience that diverges from traditional magnetic switches, making it suitable for gamers and those who appreciate cutting-edge technology. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your typing style, preferred sound, and the environments in which you’ll be using your mechanical keyboard.
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