KTT Hyacinth vs. KTT Miaowu
An in-depth look at the KTT Hyacinth and the KTT Miaowu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Hyacinth, a linear switch, to the KTT Miaowu, also a linear switch, several key differences and similarities stand out. The Hyacinth is recognized for its unique 3.5mm travel distance, aiming to provide a balance between tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort by avoiding a hard bottoming-out experience. On the other hand, the Miaowu stands out for its enhanced stem stability and smoother keystroke action, thanks to KTT's latest molds and the utilization of POK in its stem. While the Hyacinth opts for a single-stage elongated spring to provide a consistent force curve, the Miaowu features a more traditional design with bouncier and clackier characteristics. Each switch is categorized differently - the Hyacinth as neutral, silky, subtle, and the Miaowu as bouncy, clacky. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
56g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
Both the KTT Hyacinth and KTT Miaowu feature a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate plastic, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through for a visually appealing effect. With both switches utilizing polycarbonate in the top housing, users can expect a similar sound profile and aesthetic experience.
On the other hand, the KTT Hyacinth and KTT Miaowu differ in their choice of bottom housing material, with the Hyacinth utilizing nylon and the Miaowu also featuring nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate, which is more resonant and sharp. Despite the different bottom housing materials between the two switches, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel due to both switches incorporating nylon in the bottom housing.
In terms of overall typing experience, the qualities of the housing materials in the KTT Hyacinth and KTT Miaowu are distributed between the top and bottom of the switches. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Therefore, while both switches may have different bottom housing materials, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the top and bottom housings results in a balanced and satisfying typing experience for users of both the KTT Hyacinth and KTT Miaowu.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch both play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Hyacinth has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Miaowu's 43 grams, making it a bit lighter to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Hyacinth requires 56 grams of force while the Miaowu requires 50 grams, making the Miaowu the lighter option overall. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Miaowu switch for longer typing sessions, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may opt for the Hyacinth switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. The travel distance is the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom, which is what you feel when pressing down on a key. Therefore, both switches will provide a similar typing experience and tactile feedback due to their identical travel distances. Whether you choose the Hyacinth or the Miaowu, you can expect consistent performance and comfort in your 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 Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
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 switch offers a neutral profile that is suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu switch provides a clacky sound that is sharp and percussive, giving it a distinct auditory experience. Both switches will produce different sounds due to their design, but the final result will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps chosen.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the KTT Hyacinth switch is described as silky and subtle, providing a smooth typing experience with a gentle resistance. This makes it suitable for users looking for a light and comfortable typing feel without any harsh feedback. In contrast, the KTT Miaowu switch offers a bouncy sensation that provides a spring-like feedback, making the keys feel lively and giving a rebound effect when pressed. Again, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel.
In conclusion, the KTT Hyacinth and Miaowu switches offer distinct sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences. The Hyacinth switch provides a neutral sound and a silky, subtle feel, while the Miaowu switch delivers a clacky sound and a bouncy typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the user's preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience, and users can expect different but high-quality results when using either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Hyacinth and the KTT Miaowu linear switches, consider the differences in bottom out force and design features. If you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a medium-light bottom out force of 56 grams and a design focused on a 3.5mm travel distance to avoid hard bottoming-out, the Hyacinth may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a bottom out force of 50 grams and a focus on stem stability and smoother keystroke action using POK in the stem, the Miaowu may be more appealing. Additionally, consider the sound and feel profiles of each switch to determine which one aligns best with your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the Hyacinth and Miaowu will depend on your specific typing preferences and desired user experience.
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