KTT Hyacinth vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the KTT Hyacinth and the Cherry MX Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Hyacinth and Cherry MX Red are two popular linear options that cater to different preferences and typing experiences. The KTT Hyacinth distinguishes itself with a unique design that features a 3.5mm travel distance, effectively mitigating the harsh bottoming-out sensation often found in longer-stemmed switches. This thoughtful design choice, alongside a single-stage elongated spring, emphasizes consistent force delivery while ensuring user comfort through its silky and subtle feel. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red is a well-established classic, recognized for its heftier tactile feedback and deeper sound profile, which provides a more robust and thocky typing experience. With its texture and satisfying auditory depth, the MX Red appeals to those who enjoy a more pronounced response during their typing sessions. Both switches appeal to different types of users—whether you prefer the smooth elegance of the Hyacinth or the substantial feedback of the MX Red. 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 Red switches, notable differences emerge, particularly in the top housing. The KTT Hyacinth utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This characteristic allows for a clearer and more resonant sound, which becomes especially prominent when RGB lighting is utilized. The translucency of polycarbonate not only enhances its acoustic properties but also adds a visual appeal, making it a choice for those looking to showcase illumination effects. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red employs a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper, fuller sound profile. This discrepancy in materials contributes to a dissimilar auditory experience, with the nylon absorbing more sound and fostering a duller, rounder tone that may appeal to users seeking a softer auditory feedback.
Interestingly, both the KTT Hyacinth and Cherry MX Red switches share a commonality in their bottom housing, as both utilize nylon. This shared characteristic means that the bottom housing qualities, such as the deeper and fuller sound profile associated with nylon’s softer nature, will be felt the same way in both switches. The nylon material in the bottom housing allows for sound absorption that impacts the bottom-out sound experience, making it relatively uniform between the two switches. As such, while the top housing materials create contrasting sound profiles—one being crisper and more resonant and the other being rounder and deeper—the similarities in the bottom housing ensure that users will experience comparable auditory feedback during key presses.
Overall, the combination of distinct top housing materials and shared bottom housing properties between the KTT Hyacinth and Cherry MX Red switches leads to a unique interplay in sound and feel. Users can expect different sound characteristics when pressing and releasing the keys due to the differing top housing materials, while the bottom-out experience will feel largely consistent owing to the nylon used in the bottom. This variability allows users to select their preferred switching experience based on the type of auditory feedback they desire, while still enjoying the familiar properties provided by the nylon bottom housing in both switches.
Weight
The KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch exhibit some similarities and differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally easy to press, which is ideal for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming. However, the Hyacinth switch has a defined bottom out force of 56 grams, indicating it provides a slightly firmer resistance when pressed all the way down. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red's bottom out force remains unknown, making it difficult to draw a complete comparison in that regard. Given this distinction, the Hyacinth is considered the heavier option due to its defined bottom out force, while both switches offer a lighter actuation feel. Therefore, users who prefer a more substantial typing experience might lean towards the KTT Hyacinth, while those seeking minimal resistance may enjoy the Cherry MX Red due to its relatively lighter actuation force.
Travel distance
The KTT Hyacinth linear switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Cherry MX Red linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Hyacinth the shorter option between the two, promoting quicker actuation and potentially faster response times, which many gamers favor. Conversely, the Cherry MX Red offers a more traditional depth with its 4 mm travel distance, catering to users who appreciate a fuller keystroke. As such, if you tend to prefer more responsive typing, the Hyacinth switch may be the better choice, while those who enjoy a sturdier feel might gravitate towards the MX Red. Ultimately, the difference in travel distance between these switches highlights individual preferences in key feel and actuation speed, offering options for both speedy gamers and those looking for a more deliberate 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 Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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 sound profile of the KTT Hyacinth switch remains somewhat undefined but is engineered to provide an experience that balances auditory feedback without being overpowering. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red switch is celebrated for its thocky sound, producing a deep, rich auditory signature that offers a satisfying “thud” or soft “knock” when the keys are pressed and released. This difference in sound emphasizes the Hyacinth’s focus on a more subtle auditory experience, while the MX Red appeals to users who enjoy a more pronounced acoustic feedback in their typing.
When it comes to feel, the Hyacinth switch is characterized as silky and subtle, promoting an exceptionally smooth typing experience with gentle resistance that allows for seamless key presses. This user-friendly design minimizes any tactile interruptions, making it comfortable for long typing sessions and ideal for shared environments. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red switch is described as textured, meaning it incorporates noticeable friction when pressed. While some users might appreciate this tactile sensation, others may find it less ideal, making the Hyacinth's smoother action potentially more suitable for those who prioritize fluidity in their typing experience.
In conclusion, both the KTT Hyacinth and Cherry MX Red switches cater to different user preferences with respect to sound and feel. The Hyacinth aims for a more subtler auditory experience with its silky feel and comfortable resistance, while the MX Red provides a robust typing experience with its thocky sound and textured action. For individuals seeking smoother and quieter performance, the Hyacinth stands out, whereas those who enjoy deeper acoustic feedback may prefer the Cherry MX Red. The ultimate choice between these switches will largely depend on personal typing style and sound preferences, but both can deliver a satisfying experience in their own right.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, consider your typing preferences and situational needs. If you prefer a smooth and silky typing experience with a subtle resistance that minimizes friction, the KTT Hyacinth is an excellent choice. Its design, featuring a shorter travel distance and a single-stage spring, promotes comfort and reduces the hard bottoming-out sensation that can detract from long typing sessions. Additionally, if you're in a shared workspace, the quieter acoustics of the Hyacinth make it suitable for a more discreet environment. On the other hand, if you appreciate a slightly heavier feel with a richer auditory experience, the Cherry MX Red may be your go-to switch. Its textured response offers a robust typing experience that many users find satisfying, thanks to its thocky sound signature. Ultimately, your decision should align with your specific needs for tactile feedback, sound preference, and the kind of typing experience you desire.
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