KTT Hyacinth vs. Cherry MX Purple RGB
An in-depth look at the KTT Hyacinth and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the different characteristics of the KTT Hyacinth and the Cherry MX Purple RGB offer unique experiences tailored to diverse typing preferences. The KTT Hyacinth, a linear switch, distinguishes itself through its innovative 3.5mm travel distance, which minimizes the hard bottoming-out sensation typical of longer-stem switches, thereby promoting enhanced user comfort. Additionally, its use of a single-stage elongated spring allows for a consistent force curve, ensuring a smooth, subtle typing experience that many users find appealing. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Purple RGB provides a tactile experience, featuring a refined medium-strength bump that offers a satisfying response for users who enjoy clear feedback while typing. Developed in collaboration with keyboard enthusiasts, this tactile design caters to those who appreciate a more dynamic interaction with their keyboard. Both switches cater to different preferences—whether you prioritize a silky, neutral feel or a more pronounced tactile sensation. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
56g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Hyacinth and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches, a notable contrast is evident in the top housing. The Hyacinth features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This results in a more resonant auditory experience, particularly accentuated when used with RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches utilize a nylon top housing, which, being a softer plastic, produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This variation in material significantly alters the typing feel and sound characteristics, where the Hyacinth’s polycarbonate provides brightness and clarity, while the MX Purple RGB offers a more muffled and rounded sound.
On the other hand, both switches share similarities with their bottom housing, as both the KTT Hyacinth and Cherry MX Purple RGB employ nylon. This shared material results in a cohesive experience in the typing sound and feel at the bottom-out point. Nylon’s softer nature absorbs sound effectively, creating a consistent deeper sound profile that complements both switches. As such, while the top housings differ drastically in their acoustic properties, the presence of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that both switches will provide a rounded typing experience overall, which influences how they feel when a key is fully pressed down.
When considering the overall sound and feel when typing, the interplay of the top and bottom housings must be acknowledged. In the case of the KTT Hyacinth, the prominent polycarbonate top housing will stand out when releasing the key, producing that crisper sound profile, while the nylon bottom will maintain the deeper tone upon bottoming out. For the Cherry MX Purple RGB, the impact of the nylon top will lend a more subdued clipping sound when releasing it. Thus, despite the stark differences in their top housing materials, both switches can ultimately deliver satisfying auditory results due to the complementary qualities of their shared nylon bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch, we find that both switches share the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally easy to trigger. This similarity allows typists and gamers to achieve a consistent keystroke experience across both switches, suitable for extended typing sessions without excessive fatigue. However, a notable difference arises with the bottom-out force; the Hyacinth boasts a bottom-out force of 56 grams, while the bottom-out force for the MX Purple RGB switch is not available. This makes the KTT Hyacinth the heavier switch, providing a more substantial push feel when fully depressed, which some users may prefer for tactile feedback. In contrast, since the Cherry MX Purple RGB lacks a specified bottom-out force, it may appeal to those who enjoy a lighter overall typing experience. Users need to consider these aspects based on their preferences for prolonged typing or gaming sessions when selecting between the two.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch, there is a notable difference: the Hyacinth features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the MX Purple RGB has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Hyacinth the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Purple, with its longer travel distance, provides a more pronounced tactile feedback that some users might prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference; the Hyacinth may be ideal for those who favor responsiveness, while the MX Purple might suit those who appreciate a deeper key press.
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 Cherry MX Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
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 offers a neutral sound profile that is balanced, making it fairly versatile for different environments, whether for work or home use. Its moderate actuation force ensures that it won't disrupt the surrounding space, contributing to an overall pleasant acoustic experience. However, the sound quality can vary based on the keyboard build and choice of keycaps, meaning users can customize their auditory experience to some extent. In contrast, information on the sound profile of the Cherry MX Purple RGB is not specified, but given its reputation, it is likely to provide a distinctive auditory experience consistent with Cherry's high standards and quality.
When it comes to feel, the Hyacinth switch is notably silky, promoting an exceptionally smooth typing experience. This feature enhances comfort and reduces friction, contributing to a pleasing tactile sensation that many users appreciate. Additionally, the subtle resistance of the Hyacinth allows for a light, unintrusive typing feel, suitable for shared workspaces. Unfortunately, details on the tactile feedback and overall feel of the Cherry MX Purple RGB are missing, making it challenging to directly compare these attributes. Given that the MX Purple is recognized for its tactile bump, it's reasonable to infer that its feel will differ significantly from the Hyacinth's linear characteristics.
Overall, if you are seeking a switch that provides a neutral sound and a silky typing experience, the KTT Hyacinth would be an excellent choice. It smoothly balances auditory presence with comfort, making it ideal for various typing scenarios. While the Cherry MX Purple RGB is likely to provide a unique tactile feedback experience, the absence of detailed information about its specific sound and feel prevents a direct comparison. Ultimately, both switches cater to different typing preferences, and understanding these qualities will help newcomers choose the right switch for their needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch ultimately hinges on your specific preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a buttery-smooth, subtle typing experience with gentle resistance and want to minimize the audible feedback typically associated with mechanical switches, the Hyacinth is an excellent choice. Its 3.5mm travel distance and medium-light actuation force make it comfortable for extended typing sessions, whether you're working from home or in a shared workspace. On the other hand, if you enjoy a defined tactile bump during key presses that provides clear feedback to your fingers, the Cherry MX Purple RGB is tailored for you. This switch’s medium-strength bump ensures that you feel each keystroke without overwhelming resistance, making it ideal for gaming enthusiasts who appreciate tactile feedback during fast-paced action. Ultimately, selecting between these switches should reflect your typing style and environment, ensuring you find the perfect match for your keyboard experience.
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