KTT Hyacinth vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the KTT Hyacinth and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the KTT Hyacinth and the Cherry Nixie, both being linear switches. The Hyacinth is distinguished by its unique 3.5mm travel distance, aiming to provide users with a smoother typing experience by avoiding the hard bottoming-out sensation common in longer-stem switches. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie is known for its traditional yet innovative design, incorporating updated materials and springs for a satisfyingly tactile typing experience. While the Hyacinth focuses on a balance between tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort, the Nixie offers users a heavier, more textured typing experience. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
63.5g
Bottom-out force
56g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Hyacinth and the Cherry Nixie, it is clear that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness and sound-absorbing properties. This means that regardless of the switch, both the Hyacinth and the Nixie will offer a similar typing experience in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel. However, the use of nylon in the bottom housing may also result in a duller and rounder sound compared to switches with harder bottom housings.
On the other hand, the top housings of the Hyacinth and the Nixie differ, with the Hyacinth featuring a polycarbonate top housing and the Nixie utilizing a nylon top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness and resonant properties. In contrast, nylon in the top housing of the Nixie will likely result in a deeper and fuller sound, as nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This contrast in top housing materials ultimately leads to differences in the sound profiles of the two switches, with the Hyacinth offering a clearer and more resonant sound while the Nixie provides a deeper and rounder sound.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in a switch can significantly impact its sound profile and typing experience. While both the Hyacinth and the Nixie use nylon for their bottom housings, creating a similar typing experience in terms of bottom-out sound and feel, the use of polycarbonate in the Hyacinth's top housing results in a sharper and crisper sound profile compared to the Nixie's nylon top housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound. This illustrates how the combination of different housing materials in a switch can lead to distinct sound profiles and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, it is evident that they differ in terms of weight. The Hyacinth has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Nixie's heavier actuation force of 63.5 grams. Similarly, the Hyacinth has a lighter bottom out force of 56 grams, while the Nixie has a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams. This means that the Hyacinth provides a medium-light typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Nixie offers a heavier typing experience, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial push feel. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches cater to different preferences, with the Hyacinth being lighter and the Nixie being heavier, providing users with the option to choose based on their desired typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, we see that the Hyacinth has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Nixie's 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular in the market, with gamers in particular favoring shorter distances for faster response times. However, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Nixie with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a shorter, more rapid keypress or a longer, more deliberate one.
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 Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.19.
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 is known for its neutral profile, offering a moderate sound that is suitable for various settings and users. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is praised for its thocky, low-pitched sound that provides a deep and satisfying typing experience. The Nixie's sound is richer and bass-heavy compared to the more neutral sound of the Hyacinth, giving users a distinct auditory experience depending on their preference and environment.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch is described as silky and subtle, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance. This results in a light and gentle typing feel that is suitable for shared spaces. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is characterized as textured, providing noticeable friction when pressed. Some users may prefer the subtle texture of the Nixie for a unique typing experience, while others may opt for the smoother feel of the Hyacinth.
Overall, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch stands out for its design choice of a 3.5mm travel distance, creating a balance between tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort. The single-stage elongated spring in the Hyacinth offers a consistent force curve for a reliable typing feel. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie linear switch blends tradition with modern innovation by incorporating updated materials and springs for a substantial and textured typing experience. While users can expect a different sound and feel from each switch, both the Hyacinth and the Nixie provide high-quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking a unique and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT Hyacinth linear switch or the Cherry Nixie linear switch, it's important to take into account your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a smooth, subtle typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the KTT Hyacinth may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a textured, thocky sound profile with a low-pitched tone, the Cherry Nixie could be the ideal switch for your typing needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your individual preferences for typing feel, sound, and bottom out force. Make sure to consider these factors carefully before making your choice.
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