KTT Hyacinth vs. Outemu Gold
An in-depth look at the KTT Hyacinth and the Outemu Gold switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Hyacinth, a linear switch, and the Outemu Gold, a clicky switch, some key differences become apparent. The Hyacinth stands out for its unique design choice of a 3.5mm travel distance, aiming to provide a more comfortable typing experience by avoiding the common issue of harsh bottoming-out. With a single-stage elongated spring and a focus on a consistent force curve, the Hyacinth offers a neutral, silky, and subtle typing feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold lacks standout features but provides a traditional clicky typing experience. While the Hyacinth prioritizes user comfort and tactile feedback, the Gold may appeal to those who prefer a more classic clicky sound. 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
1.80 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
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
Both the KTT Hyacinth and the Outemu Gold feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it a popular choice for switches with RGB lighting. However, while both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, they may differ in terms of design and overall aesthetic appeal.
In contrast, the Hyacinth uses a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold also features a nylon bottom housing, allowing for a similar typing experience with a focus on richer sound quality. Despite the differences in the top housings, the nylon bottom housings of both switches offer a unique tactile experience for users.
When considering the overall sound and feel of a switch, the combination of top and bottom housing materials play a significant role. While the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a switch. With the use of polycarbonate and nylon in different configurations, both the KTT Hyacinth and the Outemu Gold offer distinct typing experiences that cater to individual preferences in sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, providing a light and responsive typing experience. However, the Hyacinth has a lighter bottom out force of 56 grams, compared to the Gold's heavier bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that while both switches have the same initial force needed to register a keystroke, the Hyacinth requires less force to fully press the key down, resulting in a smoother typing experience. Some users may prefer the Hyacinth for its lighter bottom out force, allowing for longer typing sessions with less fatigue. Conversely, the Gold switch provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The KTT Hyacinth linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it a bit shorter compared to the Outemu Gold clicky switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Hyacinth may appeal to gamers looking for a faster response time, while the longer travel distance of the Gold switch may provide a more satisfying tactile experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. However, both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Gold switch being slightly longer. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press feel.
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 Gold 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
In terms of sound, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes and environments. On the other hand, information on the Outemu Gold clicky switch's sound profile is not available. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Hyacinth is known for providing a silky smooth typing experience, emphasizing smoothness and minimizing resistance when typing. Additionally, the switch offers a subtle resistance, making it light and comfortable to use, with a non-resonant sound signature suitable for shared spaces. Unfortunately, there is no information available on the feel of the Outemu Gold clicky switch.
Overall, if you are looking for a linear switch with a comfortable typing experience and a neutral sound profile, the KTT Hyacinth switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you are considering the Outemu Gold clicky switch, more information would be needed to provide a fair comparison. Remember that individual preferences play a significant role in choosing the right switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT Hyacinth linear switch or the Outemu Gold clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you value a medium-light bottom out force, a neutral sound profile, and a silky, smooth typing experience, the Hyacinth may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and are looking for a clicky switch without specific sound and feel preferences provided, the Gold switch could be the more suitable option. Both switches have unique features and characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences, so make sure to consider what matters most to you when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Hyacinth and Gold switches will depend on what you prioritize in your mechanical keyboard experience.
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