KTT Hyacinth vs. KTT Matcha
An in-depth look at the KTT Hyacinth and the KTT Matcha switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Hyacinth and the KTT Matcha are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features and experiences. The Hyacinth, a linear switch, stands out with its design choice of a 3.5mm travel distance, which aims to provide a more comfortable typing experience by avoiding the hard bottoming-out often found in switches with longer stems. This switch also deviates from the mainstream trend by using a single-stage elongated spring, resulting in a more consistent force curve. Categorized as 'Neutral', 'Silky', and 'Subtle', the Hyacinth promises a balanced tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort. On the other hand, the Matcha, a tactile switch, offers a comfortable and snappy tactility while typing, giving users a satisfying response. The Matcha also boasts a distinctly clean bottom-out sound, thanks to its long pole stem. Categorized as 'Stepped', 'Snappy', 'Accented', 'Clacky', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle', the Matcha provides a range of tactile experiences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
56g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Yes
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The KTT Hyacinth and the KTT Matcha both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This material choice offers similar benefits for both switches, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, allowing the illumination to shine through the top housing. Therefore, whether you choose the Hyacinth or the Matcha, you can expect a comparable result in terms of sound and aesthetics.
While the top housings of the Hyacinth and the Matcha share the same material, their bottom housings differ. The Hyacinth features a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Matcha utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This difference in material affects the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches. So, depending on your preference for sound and typing experience, you can decide between the deeper sound of the Hyacinth or the sharper sound of the Matcha.
Considering the split between the top and bottom housings for these switches, it is important to note that the qualities of each housing material will have varying impacts. When you press down on either the Hyacinth or the Matcha, you will feel the qualities of the bottom housing, as it influences the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing has a stronger impact on the sound when you release a key. Therefore, if you prioritize the feel of the switch during key press, the bottom housing material will be more significant, whereas if the sound when lifting the key is more important to you, the top housing material will play a larger role.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, we can observe a few key differences. The Hyacinth has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Matcha's 40 grams. This means that the Hyacinth requires a slightly stronger push to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Hyacinth is also slightly heavier with a force of 56 grams, while the Matcha has a bottom out force of 45 grams. This indicates that the Hyacinth provides a more substantial typing experience, as it requires both a stronger initial push and a heavier force to fully press the keys. On the other hand, the Matcha offers a lighter typing experience with lower forces for both actuation and bottoming out. This lighter weight can be beneficial for those who prefer extended typing sessions or are engaged in long gaming sessions. Ultimately, one's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience should guide their choice between the KTT Hyacinth and the KTT Matcha switches.
Travel distance
The KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch have different travel distances. The Hyacinth has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Matcha has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Matcha has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Hyacinth. A travel distance of 4.0mm is considered the most traditional, while 3.0 mm is the most shallow. However, shorter travel distances are becoming more popular, especially among gamers who value faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive feel, the Hyacinth with its shorter travel distance would be a better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, the Matcha with its longer travel distance would be the preferred option.
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 Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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
The KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch have distinct differences in terms of sound and feel.
In terms of sound, the Hyacinth is described as neutral. This means that it has a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for most purposes. On the other hand, the Matcha is described as clacky, which means it produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This gives it a crisp, bright, and percussive sound. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Hyacinth is described as silky and subtle. Silky refers to the exceptionally smooth typing experience it offers, reducing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. It enhances the overall smoothness of the typing feel. Additionally, it has a gentle resistance that is not feather-light but still maintains a light typing feel. Furthermore, the sound signature of the Hyacinth is not resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces.
On the other hand, the Matcha has a stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle feel. Stepped refers to the two stages of tactile feedback felt while typing. It provides a mild level of tactility compared to hypertactile switches. Snappy switches, like the Matcha, are highly responsive, enhancing the typing experience. Accented switches provide a medium level of tactility, not overwhelming but still noticeable. Feathery switches are exceptionally light to press and require minimal finger exertion, reducing finger fatigue. Lastly, the Matcha also has a gentle resistance, similar to the Hyacinth, while maintaining a light typing feel.
In conclusion, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch have different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Hyacinth offers a neutral sound and a silky, subtle feel. On the other hand, the Matcha produces a clacky sound and has a stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle feel. The choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience, whether it be smooth and neutral or snappy with varying levels of tactility.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a design that prioritizes tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort, then the KTT Hyacinth linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. Its 3.5mm travel distance and single-stage elongated spring provide a consistent force curve and a comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, if you enjoy a light bottom out force and appreciate a clean bottom-out sound, then the KTT Matcha tactile switch is the way to go. Its 45g bottom out force and long pole stem result in a snappy tactility and a distinct clacky sound. It's important to consider sound and feel preferences when choosing between these switches. The Hyacinth offers a neutral sound profile and a silky typing feel, making it suitable for various environments. In contrast, the Matcha produces a clacky sound and has a stepped, snappy, accented, and feathery feel, adding a touch of personality to your typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these switches depends on your personal preferences and typing style.
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