KTT Hyacinth vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the KTT Hyacinth and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Hyacinth and the TTC Neptune are sure to catch your attention. The Hyacinth stands out for its unique design choice of a 3.5mm travel distance, providing a balance between tactile feedback and user comfort without the harsh bottoming-out sensation. On the other hand, the Neptune offers an innovative internal structure that combines a smooth, frictionless glide with a springy resistance, giving each keystroke a textured pleasure. While the Hyacinth is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Silky', and 'Subtle', the Neptune is described as 'Buttery', 'Gummy', 'Frictionless', 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', 'Muted', 'Neutral', 'Polished', 'Subdued', and 'Thocky'. Choosing between these two switches will depend on your preference for travel distance and 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
41g
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
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Hyacinth and the TTC Neptune, one notable difference is the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Hyacinth versus POM in the Neptune. While polycarbonate creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, POM results in a deeper and relatively more muted sound. This contrast in sound profiles can significantly impact the typing experience for users, where the Hyacinth may offer a more defined and resonant sound while the Neptune provides a fuller and smoother typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the Hyacinth allows for RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic dimension to the switch that is not present in the Neptune.
On the other hand, the bottom housing materials of the Hyacinth and Neptune further differentiate the two switches. The Hyacinth utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In comparison, the Neptune features a polycarbonate bottom housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This distinction in sound profiles between the bottom housings of the two switches may impact the overall typing experience, where the Hyacinth offers a more rounded and duller sound while the Neptune provides a clearer and resonant sound.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the KTT Hyacinth and TTC Neptune, it is important to note that the impact of each housing material is split between the top and bottom housings of a switch. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. Therefore, users can expect varying typing experiences based on the combination of housing materials in each switch, where the qualities of the bottom housing may complement or contrast with those of the top housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, it is evident that the Neptune is the lighter option of the two. The Hyacinth has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 56 grams, placing it in the medium-light category. On the other hand, the Neptune has an actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option overall. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time, the Neptune would be the preferable choice, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel with a stronger push, the Hyacinth would be a better fit due to its slightly higher actuation and bottom out forces. In both cases, users can expect smooth linear switches with responsive feedback, but the slight difference in weight between the two may cater to different preferences for typing or gaming activities.
Travel distance
The KTT Hyacinth linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the 3.8 mm travel distance of the TTC Neptune linear switch. The difference may seem minimal, but it can make a noticeable impact on the typing or gaming experience. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Hyacinth with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press might lean towards the Neptune. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preference in terms of feel and responsiveness. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their slight variance in travel distance, resulting in a unique feel tailored to the user's preference.
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 TTC Neptune has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Neptune for $5.09.
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 offers a neutral auditory experience, suitable for various settings and users. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune linear switch presents a low-pitched, muted sound profile that keeps the typing ambiance refined and unobtrusive. While both switches provide different sound characteristics, the choice between them will depend on personal preference and the overall setup of your keyboard, including the choice of keycaps.
Moving on to the feel, the Hyacinth switch is described as silky and subtle, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with a gentle resistance. In contrast, the TTC Neptune switch provides a buttery, gummy, frictionless typing sensation, ensuring a seamless and unique keystroke experience. Whether you prefer a more polished and refined feel with the Hyacinth switch or a gummy and frictionless feel with the Neptune switch, both options offer a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience.
In conclusion, the KTT Hyacinth and TTC Neptune linear switches each bring unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. While the Hyacinth switch focuses on providing a neutral sound profile and a silky typing experience, the Neptune switch offers a low-pitched, muted sound and a buttery, gummy feel. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will come down to personal preference, typing style, and the overall typing experience you are looking to achieve. Whether you opt for the Hyacinth or Neptune switch, you can expect a high-quality typing experience that meets your specific preferences and needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you are seeking a switch with a medium-light bottom out force, a neutral sound profile, and a silky typing feel, the Hyacinth may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a low-pitched and muted sound profile, and a buttery or gummy typing feel, then the Neptune could be more suited to your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so it's essential to focus on what specific qualities appeal to you the most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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