KTT Hyacinth vs. Outemu Cream Blue
An in-depth look at the KTT Hyacinth and the Outemu Cream Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Hyacinth, a linear switch, and the Outemu Cream Blue, a clicky switch. The Hyacinth stands out for its 3.5mm travel distance, aimed at providing a balanced tactile feedback and auditory experience while prioritizing user comfort. On the other hand, the Cream Blue's design specifics are not as explicitly highlighted. The Hyacinth uses a single-stage elongated spring for a consistent force curve, while the Cream Blue's construction details are not provided. The Hyacinth is described as 'Neutral', 'Silky', and 'Subtle', while the Cream Blue's categorization is not given. In choosing between these switches, deciding factors may include preferred tactile feel, noise level, and personal typing preferences. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
56g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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 Outemu Cream Blue, we can see that they both use nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This means that both switches will offer a similar typing experience in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel. However, the top housing of the Hyacinth is made of polycarbonate, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the Cream Blue's nylon top housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This difference in top housing material will impact the sound when releasing a key.
On the aesthetic side, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Hyacinth allows for translucency, making it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Cream Blue's nylon top housing does not offer the same transparency. Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which may not have as significant of an impact on the visual appearance of the switch compared to the top housing material. Overall, the housing materials of these switches contribute to their sound profiles and overall typing experience in different ways.
The split in housing materials between the top and bottom of a switch allows for a unique typing experience. The qualities of each material will impact the sound and feel of pressing down and releasing a key. In the case of the Hyacinth, the polycarbonate top housing will influence the sound when letting go of a key, while the nylon bottom housing will affect the bottom-out sound and feel. Similarly, the Cream Blue's nylon top housing will produce a duller sound upon release, and the nylon bottom housing will contribute to a deeper and fuller bottom-out sound. Understanding how each housing material contributes to the overall typing experience can help users choose the switch that best fits their preferences.
Weight
The KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch provide different experiences due to their actuation and bottom out forces. The Hyacinth has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 56 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch. In contrast, the Cream Blue has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who enjoy a stronger push feel. Both switches offer a distinct typing experience based on their force requirements, with the Hyacinth leaning towards a lighter touch and the Cream Blue towards a heavier touch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, it is clear that the Hyacinth has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Cream Blue's 4 mm. The Hyacinth's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, while the Cream Blue's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more substantial key press feel. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with 4.0 mm being the most common. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key press depth 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 Outemu Cream Blue comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 sound profile, making it suitable for various environments and user preferences. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch remains unknown. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by external factors such as the keyboard housing and keycap material.
In terms of feel, the Hyacinth switch is known for its silky and subtle tactile feedback, providing a smooth typing experience with gentle resistance. This makes it a comfortable option for prolonged typing sessions. Unfortunately, there is no information available on the tactile feel of the Cream Blue switch. Despite this lack of information, it is likely that users can expect a different typing experience compared to the Hyacinth due to its clicky nature.
Overall, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch stands out for its neutral sound profile, silky and subtle tactile feedback, and unique design choices such as the 3.5mm travel distance and single-stage elongated spring. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch remain unknown, individuals seeking a linear switch with a smooth typing experience and moderate sound profile may find the Hyacinth to be a suitable option. Ultimately, personal preference will play a significant role in determining which switch is the best fit for each user's specific needs and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, travel distance, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a smooth typing experience with a 3.5mm travel distance, the Hyacinth is a great choice. It offers a neutral sound profile and a silky feel, making it versatile for various typing needs. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a clicky switch, the Cream Blue may be more suitable. However, keep in mind that the Cream Blue is lacking in detailed descriptors for its sound and feel compared to the Hyacinth. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing habits.
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