KTT Hyacinth vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the KTT Hyacinth and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Hyacinth and the Outemu Maple Leaf stand out as popular choices within the community. The Hyacinth, a linear switch, features a 3.5mm travel distance that aims to provide a balanced tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort without the harsh bottoming-out sensation commonly experienced with longer stem switches. In contrast, the Maple Leaf, a tactile switch, lacks distinguishing features in terms of design or innovation. The Hyacinth boasts a single-stage elongated spring for a consistent force curve, while the Maple Leaf category remains unknown. Choosing between these two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style; 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
55g
Bottom-out force
56g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Hyacinth and the Outemu Maple Leaf, it is evident that they both have unique qualities that contribute to their sound profiles. The Hyacinth utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. In contrast, the Maple Leaf employs a nylon top housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its softer composition. While both materials offer different sound profiles, they both have their advantages: polycarbonate provides a clear and resonant tone, while nylon absorbs more sound and creates a rounder sound.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, both the Hyacinth and the Maple Leaf utilize nylon, which again leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer plastic composition allows for more sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, both switches offer a similar feel and sound when pressing down due to their shared nylon bottom housing. However, the top housing material will have a more pronounced impact on the sound when releasing a key, showcasing the differences between the polycarbonate and nylon top housings of the Hyacinth and Maple Leaf, respectively.
While the housing materials of the KTT Hyacinth and the Outemu Maple Leaf differ in terms of their top housings, both switches share the use of nylon in their bottom housings. This commonality leads to a similar feel and sound profile when pressing down on the switches. However, the distinct qualities of polycarbonate and nylon in the top housings create a contrast in sound profiles: the sharper and crisper tone of polycarbonate in the Hyacinth versus the deeper and fuller sound of nylon in the Maple Leaf. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for sound characteristics and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, it is evident that the Hyacinth is lighter in both aspects. The Hyacinth requires 45 grams of actuation force and 56 grams of bottom out force, making it medium-light in terms of typing feel. In contrast, the Maple Leaf switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams and bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This means that the Hyacinth will provide a lighter typing experience compared to the Maple Leaf switch, which offers a more substantial and tactile feel while typing. Both switches will result in similar outcomes in terms of trigger and bottoming out forces, which may cater to different preferences based on individual typing styles and preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience for extended periods of use.
Travel distance
The KTT Hyacinth linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Hyacinth has a slightly longer travel distance than the Maple Leaf. However, both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive feel, either switch would provide similar results due to their closely matched travel distances. Ultimately, the decision between the two would come down to personal preference regarding the slight difference in travel distance.
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 Maple Leaf 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 known for its neutral sound profile, suitable for various settings and users. On the other hand, there is no information available about the sound profile of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors like the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch is described as offering a silky typing experience with minimal resistance, providing a smooth and comfortable typing feel. In contrast, there is no information provided about the tactile feel of the Outemu Maple Leaf switch. It is important to note that the typing experience can greatly impact user satisfaction and comfort.
Taking all available information into consideration, it is evident that the KTT Hyacinth linear switch offers a neutral sound profile and a silky typing experience, making it a versatile and comfortable option for various users. While the information regarding the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch is limited, it is crucial for newcomers to consider both sound and feel when selecting a mechanical keyboard switch to ensure an optimal typing experience. Ultimately, both switches may provide similar results in terms of sound and feel, depending on personal preferences and the overall keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force, the Hyacinth with 56 grams is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Maple Leaf with 65 grams may be the better option for you. Additionally, consider the design and features of each switch - the Hyacinth's unique travel distance and spring design for a balanced tactile experience, and the Maple Leaf's yet-to-be-known standout features. Lastly, think about the sound and feel of each switch - the Hyacinth's neutral sound profile and silky typing feel, and the Maple Leaf's yet-to-be-known characteristics. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
