KTT Hyacinth vs. Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade)
An in-depth look at the KTT Hyacinth and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Hyacinth and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct qualities for different typing preferences. The Hyacinth, a linear switch, stands out with its design choice of a 3.5mm travel distance. This decision was made to avoid the hard bottoming-out experience common with switches with longer stems, aiming to create an ideal balance between tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort. In contrast, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade), a tactile switch, offers a sharp tactile feel with a strong downstroke and an even sharper and stronger upstroke bump. With a unique blend of PBT top and bottom housing, it provides a rare and premium typing experience. While the Hyacinth focuses on creating a consistent force curve, the Moyu Blacks prioritize a distinctive and impactful typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
56g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
PBT
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
PBT
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Hyacinth and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) differ in terms of their sound profiles and physical properties. The Hyacinth features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The translucency of polycarbonate is particularly advantageous for those using RGB lighting. In contrast, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) utilizes a PBT top housing, offering a more neutral sound profile that is neither crisp nor dull. Both materials have their own unique sound characteristics, with polycarbonate providing a more resonant and clear sound while PBT offers a more balanced and subtle tone.
In terms of the bottom housing, the KTT Hyacinth incorporates a nylon material. This classic choice provides a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller yet rounder tone. On the other hand, the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) features a PBT bottom housing. Similar to its top housing, the PBT material delivers a neutral sound profile. Neither crisp nor dull, it allows for a balanced typing experience.
When comparing the switch housings overall, it is important to note that the qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom housing. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing's qualities predominantly influence the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the sound when releasing a key is influenced more by the top housing. Despite their differences, both the Hyacinth and the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) provide unique and satisfying typing experiences, albeit with slight variations in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch, there are noticeable differences in weight. The actuation force of the Hyacinth is 45 grams, while the Moyu Black requires 50 grams to actuate. Both switches fall into the medium-light category, but the Moyu Black requires slightly more force for activation.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Hyacinth has a bottom out force of 56 grams, while the Moyu Black has a higher bottom out force of 67 grams. This makes the Moyu Black a medium-heavy switch in terms of bottoming out.
Considering weight preferences, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Hyacinth more suitable, as its actuation and bottom out forces are slightly lower. This lighter feel enables longer typing or gaming sessions without causing excessive fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who desire a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push may lean towards the Moyu Black. The higher actuation and bottom out forces of the Moyu Black provide a more pronounced tactile feedback and resistance.
While the two switches have different weight profiles, those seeking a similar experience in terms of actuation and bottom out can achieve comparable results by adjusting their typing technique. By lightly tapping the Hyacinth or typing with a firmer stroke on the Moyu Black, users can tailor their experience to match their preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual typing style, desired resistance, and duration of use.
Travel distance
The KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch have different travel distances. The Hyacinth has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Moyu Black has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Hyacinth falls on the shorter side of the spectrum, making it a favorable choice for gamers who prioritize faster response times. On the other hand, the Moyu Black offers a slightly longer travel distance, providing a more substantial and deeper key press experience. Both options have their merits depending on personal preference. So, if you prefer a shorter and more responsive feel, the Hyacinth is the way to go. However, if you enjoy a deeper and more satisfying key press, the Moyu Black would be the better 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 Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) has an MSRP of $12.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) for $7.59.
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 is described as neutral. This means that it has a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for most intents and purposes. On the other hand, the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch is described as resonant. Typing on these switches will result in a higher-pitched sound profile, creating an immersive auditory experience. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also affected by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch is described as silky and subtle. A silky switch offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Additionally, it has a gentle resistance and a light typing feel. This switch is suitable for shared spaces as its sound signature is not resonant. On the other hand, the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch is described as accented and sharp. These switches provide a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming. The tactile bump is strong and crisp, offering high feedback intensity with each keypress.
Considering all the available information, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Hyacinth switch provides a neutral sound profile and a silky, subtle typing feel, making it a versatile option suitable for various purposes. In contrast, the Moyu Black switch offers a resonant sound profile with a sharp, accented tactile feel, resulting in a premium typing experience that emphasizes feedback intensity. Both switches provide unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. It is important to choose the switch that aligns with your desired auditory and tactile experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a smooth and comfortable typing experience without a strong tactile bump, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch would be a great choice for you. With its medium-light bottom out force and a design optimized for tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort, the Hyacinth offers a balanced and pleasant typing experience. Additionally, if you prefer a neutral sound profile that is suitable for most environments, the Hyacinth is a good option.
On the other hand, if you enjoy a sharper and stronger tactile feedback, the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch would be a better fit for you. With its medium-heavy bottom out force and a unique blend of PBT top and bottom housing, the Moyu Blacks deliver a premium typing experience. The sharp and short downstroke bump, accompanied by an even sharper upstroke bump, creates a hypertactile sensation that adds impact to each keystroke. Moreover, if you appreciate a resonant sound profile that is clean and sharp, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) switches provide an immersive auditory experience.
In summary, when choosing between the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch, consider your preference for tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort. If you prioritize a smooth and comfortable typing experience with a neutral sound profile, go for the Hyacinth. If you prefer a sharper and stronger tactile feedback with a resonant sound profile, opt for the Moyu Black (Dark Jade). Ultimately, the choice boils down to personal preference and the typing experience you desire.
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