KTT Hyacinth vs. Outemu Dustproof Red
An in-depth look at the KTT Hyacinth and the Outemu Dustproof Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Hyacinth and the Outemu Dustproof Red are both linear mechanical keyboard switches, but they differ in design and characteristics. The Hyacinth stands out with its 3.5mm travel distance, aiming to provide a softer bottoming-out experience and a balanced blend of tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort. It also features a single-stage elongated spring for a more consistent force curve. On the other hand, the Dustproof Red lacks specific standout features and falls under the category of being neutral and subtle. When choosing between these two switches, the Hyacinth may be preferred for those who value a smoother typing experience and a unique travel distance, while the Dustproof Red may be more suitable for users looking for a more standard linear switch. 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
60g
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Hyacinth and the Outemu Dustproof Red both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which lends itself to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for incorporating RGB lighting into the switches. However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Hyacinth features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its absorbent properties. On the other hand, the Dustproof Red also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a rounder and duller sound.
Despite their differences in bottom housing material, the KTT Hyacinth and the Outemu Dustproof Red share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing. This results in a consistent sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile for both switches. The impact of the bottom housing material is most noticeable during bottom-out sounds and feels, while the top housing material has a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, both switches offer a unique typing experience with a combination of materials that contributes to the overall sound profile and feel of each key press.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in mechanical keyboard switches plays a significant role in the overall typing experience. While both the KTT Hyacinth and the Outemu Dustproof Red utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, they differ in their use of nylon for the bottom housing. The Hyacinth's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Dustproof Red's nylon bottom housing offers a similar typing experience with a rounder and duller sound. Ultimately, the combination of materials in each switch contributes to the unique sound profile and feel of typing on these mechanical switches.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, it is clear that both switches have a similar actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Hyacinth has a lighter bottom out force of 56 grams, while the Dustproof Red has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 60 grams. This difference may result in a slightly lighter typing experience with the Hyacinth compared to the Dustproof Red. The Hyacinth may be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the Dustproof Red may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a slightly heavier push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option of the two. The Hyacinth provides a slightly shorter travel distance, which may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Dustproof Red offers a bit more depth with its longer travel distance, which some users may find more comfortable for typing. Both switches offer a different typing experience, so choosing between the two ultimately depends on personal 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 Outemu Dustproof Red 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 is known for its neutral profile, providing a moderate sound that is suitable for various environments and user preferences. On the other hand, information on the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch's sound profile is not available. This means that if sound is a crucial factor for you, the Hyacinth may be the safer choice given its known characteristics.
In terms of feel, the Hyacinth switch offers a silky typing experience, ensuring smooth key presses with minimal resistance. Additionally, it provides a subtle typing feel and a non-resonant sound signature, making it suitable for shared spaces. Unfortunately, there is no information available on the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Red switch. If you prioritize a smooth and gentle typing experience, the Hyacinth switch seems to offer these qualities based on the available information.
Overall, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch stands out for its unique design features such as the 3.5mm travel distance and single-stage elongated spring, offering a balanced tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort. While information on the Outemu Dustproof Red switch is limited, if you are looking for a switch with a moderate sound profile and a smooth typing feel, the Hyacinth may be a suitable option for you. Remember that personal preference plays a crucial role in choosing the perfect switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, consider the following guidelines. You may want to choose the KTT Hyacinth if you value a switch with a lighter bottom out force, a unique 3.5mm travel distance for a comfortable typing experience, and a single-stage elongated spring for a consistent force curve. The Hyacinth is also a neutral switch suitable for a variety of uses, offering a silky and subtle typing feel. On the other hand, you may prefer the Outemu Dustproof Red if you prefer a slightly higher bottom out force, as it offers a medium bottom out force. Keep in mind that the Dustproof Red does not have specific characteristics mentioned in terms of sound and feel. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing experience and performance.
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