KTT Hyacinth vs. Everglide Lightning Silver V3
An in-depth look at the KTT Hyacinth and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to explore are the KTT Hyacinth and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3, both of which are linear switches. The Hyacinth is distinguished by its unique 3.5mm travel distance, aiming to provide a comfortable typing experience without the harsh bottoming-out sensation often associated with longer stem switches. In contrast, the Lightning Silver V3 boasts a distinctive clacky and high-pitched sound profile, along with a smooth typing feel attributed to its Haimu production. While the Hyacinth focuses on a balanced tactile feedback and auditory experience, the Lightning Silver V3 emphasizes a vibrant RGB illumination feature. Ultimately, the Hyacinth is described as neutral, silky, subtle, while the Lightning Silver V3 is characterized as clacky, high-pitched, silky. As you consider these general characteristics, let's delve further into the specifics to help you determine the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
56g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Lengthened gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The KTT Hyacinth and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 both utilize polycarbonate as their top housing material, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows for vibrant colors to shine through. In terms of aesthetics and sound quality, both switches benefit from the use of polycarbonate in their top housings.
However, where the two switches differ is in the material used for their bottom housing. The Hyacinth features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Lightning Silver V3 utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which continues the trend of a sharper and crisper sound. This difference in bottom housing material impacts the overall sound and feel of each switch, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has more of an impact on the sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, while both the KTT Hyacinth and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 share similar qualities in their polycarbonate top housings, they diverge in their choice of bottom housing material. The Hyacinth's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Lightning Silver V3's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a sharper and crisper sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel, as well as aesthetic considerations for those looking to showcase RGB lighting.
Weight
The KTT Hyacinth linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch which has an actuation force of 48 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Hyacinth requires 56 grams while the Lightning Silver V3 requires 60 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-light category for actuation force, but the Hyacinth is slightly lighter overall. Some users may prefer the Hyacinth for its lighter touch, allowing for extended typing or gaming sessions without fatigue, while others may prefer the slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force of the Lightning Silver V3 for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The KTT Hyacinth linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. The Hyacinth offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying depth when typing or gaming, while the Lightning Silver V3 offers a slightly shorter travel distance for those who prefer a quicker response. Overall, both switches offer a similar experience due to their close travel distances, so choosing between the two may come down to personal preference for a slightly longer or shorter keypress feel.
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 Everglide Lightning Silver V3 has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lightning Silver V3 for $4.10.
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 is known for its neutral sound profile, offering a moderate actuation force requirement suitable for various purposes. On the other hand, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch provides a clacky and high-pitched sound when pressed, creating a sharp and crisp auditory experience. Keep in mind that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycap material used.
Moving on to the feel, the Hyacinth switch is described as silky and subtle, providing a smooth typing experience with gentle resistance and minimal sound resonance. Conversely, the Lightning Silver V3 switch offers a silky typing experience, focusing on smoothness and reduced resistance during key presses. Both switches excel in providing a pleasant tactile feel while typing, ensuring a comfortable and satisfying user experience.
Overall, the KTT Hyacinth and Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Hyacinth switch leans towards a balanced and neutral sound profile with a silky and subtle typing feel, aiming for a comfortable and versatile typing experience. On the other hand, the Lightning Silver V3 switch delivers a clacky, high-pitched sound combined with a smooth and silky typing feel, focusing on creating a unique auditory and tactile experience. Ultimately, whether you choose the Hyacinth or the Lightning Silver V3, both switches promise a high-quality performance that will enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch, you should consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you prefer a neutral sound profile and a silky, subtle typing experience, the Hyacinth may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clacky, high-pitched sound and a silky typing experience, the Lightning Silver V3 could be the switch for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style to ensure you have the best typing experience possible.
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