KTT Hyacinth vs. Cherry MX Silent Red
An in-depth look at the KTT Hyacinth and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Hyacinth and the Cherry MX Silent Red, both of which are linear switches. The Hyacinth is designed with a 3.5mm travel distance to provide a comfortable typing experience while minimizing the harsh bottoming-out sensation often felt with longer stem switches. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red offers a quieter alternative to the classic MX Red switch, maintaining a similar feel but operating silently, making it a great choice for noise-sensitive environments. While the Hyacinth is praised for its tactile feedback and balance between comfort and auditory experience, the MX Silent Red is known for its muted sound profile and satisfying typing experience. 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
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Hyacinth and the Cherry MX Silent Red, we see that the top housing of the Hyacinth is made of polycarbonate, while the MX Silent Red features a nylon top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, nylon is a softer plastic that creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While both materials have their unique characteristics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Hyacinth offers a more resonant and clear sound, while the nylon top housing of the MX Silent Red provides a deeper and fuller typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing of the switches, both the Hyacinth and the MX Silent Red utilize nylon for this component. Nylon's softer properties absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile compared to stiffer plastics. This means that when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound profile. The split between the top and bottom housing materials in a switch affects the overall sound and feel during typing, with the bottom housing having more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when keypresses are released.
While the housing materials of the KTT Hyacinth and the Cherry MX Silent Red offer different sound profiles due to the use of polycarbonate and nylon, respectively, they both aim to enhance the typing experience. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Hyacinth creates a clear and resonant sound, while the softer nylon top housing of the MX Silent Red results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Both switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing, absorbing sound and contributing to a rounder sound profile. Despite their differences, users can expect a satisfying typing experience from both switches, with unique sound characteristics attributed to their respective housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, it is evident that they both have the same actuation force of 45 grams, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of initial key response. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Hyacinth has a slightly heavier force of 56 grams, while the MX Silent Red does not specify a bottom out force. The Hyacinth switch falls into the medium-light category, ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Conversely, the MX Silent Red remains a bit of a mystery in terms of bottom out force, making it challenging to determine its suitability for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces, with the Hyacinth offering a slightly heavier option compared to the MX Silent Red.
Travel distance
The KTT Hyacinth linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm, while the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7mm. In this case, the Cherry MX Silent Red has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the KTT Hyacinth. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for faster response times. Gamers, in particular, may appreciate the shorter travel distance of these switches. However, for those who prefer a more substantial key press and a longer distance to travel, the Cherry MX Silent Red may be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and responsiveness.
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 Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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
In terms of sound, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch provides a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch offers a muted, thocky, and low-pitched sound that is designed to minimize noise in noise-sensitive environments. While the Hyacinth delivers a more standard typing sound, the MX Silent Red offers a unique silent experience with a deeper, richer tone.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Hyacinth is praised for its silky and subtle typing experience, providing a smooth and gentle resistance that enhances the overall typing feel. In contrast, the Cherry MX Silent Red is described as having a textured feel, which may offer some users a different tactile sensation compared to the Hyacinth. It is important to note that personal preference plays a significant role in determining which type of switch feel is most comfortable and enjoyable for individual users.
Overall, both the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Hyacinth provides a neutral and silky typing experience, while the MX Silent Red offers a muted and textured feel. Depending on your personal preferences and the specific environment in which you will be using the keyboard, you may prefer one over the other. However, both switches are capable of delivering a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that you will get similar results in terms of performance and comfort regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT Hyacinth linear switch or the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, you should take into account your specific preferences and needs. If you prioritize a medium-light bottom out force and a design focused on providing a balance between tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort, the Hyacinth may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you seek a switch with a quieter sound profile, especially suited for noise-sensitive environments, and don't mind a slightly heftier feel, the MX Silent Red could be the better option. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific requirements of your typing environment.
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