KTT Hyacinth vs. KTT Lightning
An in-depth look at the KTT Hyacinth and the KTT Lightning switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Hyacinth and the KTT Lightning offer unique experiences that cater to different preferences. The Hyacinth stands out with its design choice of a 3.5mm travel distance, specifically aimed at avoiding the common hard bottoming-out experience. This commitment to user comfort and balance between tactile feedback and auditory experience sets it apart. In contrast, the Lightning switches are known for their speed, making them perfect for situations where milliseconds can determine victory or defeat. With a slick type feel and clacky sound profile, they offer a polished and high-pitched experience. Both switches have their strengths, but let's delve deeper into their characteristics to help you determine the best fit for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
56g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
The housing materials of the KTT Hyacinth and the KTT Lightning are both made of polycarbonate for the top housing. This material provides similar benefits to both switches, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The relatively stiffer plastic of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, polycarbonate is translucent, making it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound profile and aesthetic appeal when comparing the polycarbonate top housings of both switches.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Hyacinth and the Lightning utilize nylon material. Nylon is a classic switch housing material and offers its own set of advantages. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon, being a relatively softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, the sound produced is duller and rounder. Therefore, users can expect a similar typing experience with both the Hyacinth and the Lightning due to the nylon bottom housing.
Taking into consideration the difference in housing materials between the top and bottom of the switch, it is important to note that the qualities each material brings will be distributed accordingly. When pressing down on either the Hyacinth or the Lightning, the bottom housing will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and the feel of the keystroke. This is because the bottom housing, being made of nylon, absorbs more sound and provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the top housing, made of polycarbonate, will have a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Users can therefore expect slight variations in sound depending on the specific housing material used, but overall, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Hyacinth and the Lightning will provide a balanced and satisfying typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Hyacinth has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams, compared to the Lightning's 43 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Hyacinth is also heavier with 56 grams, while the Lightning requires 50 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Lightning switch is the better choice as both its actuation and bottom out forces are lower. This allows for a smoother and more effortless keystroke, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or intense gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Hyacinth switch offers a slightly heavier feel, providing a more substantial typing experience. This can be preferred by individuals who enjoy a stronger push for greater tactile feedback.
Considering weight is essential when selecting a switch, as it directly influences the typing feel and comfort. Opting for a lighter switch like the Lightning can help reduce fatigue during prolonged use, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. Meanwhile, individuals who desire a more pronounced typing experience may find the slightly heavier Hyacinth switch more satisfying. Overall, the choice between the two switches boils down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
In terms of travel distance, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch offer contrasting options. The Hyacinth has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Lightning has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which have gained popularity in recent times. Gamers, in particular, prefer shorter travel distances as they provide faster response times. Therefore, if you prioritize quick and responsive keystrokes, the Lightning switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt and prefer a more substantial depth in their typing experience. If you are one of those people, the Hyacinth switch with its longer travel distance would be better suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness or depth one seeks in their typing experience.
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 Lightning comes in at $3.41 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 offers a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate sound level that is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning has a clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. It also has a high-pitched sound, which can be described as crisp and bright. Additionally, the Lightning switch has a chirpy characteristic, adding a unique acoustic signature to its sound. However, keep in mind that the sound of the switches can also be affected by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
When it comes to feel, both switches share the descriptor of being subtle. This means that they provide a gentle resistance when pressed, giving a light typing feel without being overly feather-light. Furthermore, the feel of both switches is suitable for shared spaces as they do not produce a resonant sound. In addition to this shared attribute, the KTT Hyacinth is also described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience. This switch enhances the overall smoothness of the typing feel and minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning is described as polished, indicating that it has a sleek and refined finish resulting in a smooth typing experience. This can be attributed to the materials used or factory lubing, which reduces friction and provides smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the KTT Hyacinth and KTT Lightning switches have distinct qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The Hyacinth offers a neutral sound profile and a silky, smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Lightning provides a clacky sound profile with a high-pitched and chirpy characteristic, while also offering a polished, refined feel. Both switches share the descriptor of being subtle, providing a gentle resistance and a light typing feel suitable for shared spaces. When considering these switches, it is important to also consider the other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen, as they can influence the overall sound and feel experience.
Conclusion
In closing, to summarize, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch would be a great choice for you if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and are looking for a switch that offers a neutral sound profile. With its 3.5mm travel distance, the Hyacinth aims to provide an ideal balance between tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort. Additionally, its single-stage elongated spring offers a more consistent force curve. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning linear switch would be a suitable option if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and are seeking a switch that produces a clacky sound profile. The Lightning switches are known for their approachable "speed" functionality, making them ideal for situations where milliseconds can determine victory or defeat. Overall, the choice between the Hyacinth and Lightning switches would depend on your personal preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel.
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