KTT Hyacinth vs. Outemu Milk Blue
An in-depth look at the KTT Hyacinth and the Outemu Milk Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT hyacinth and the Outemu milk blue mechanical keyboard switches, the hyacinth stands out as a linear switch with a unique 3.5mm travel distance to provide a comfortable typing experience without the harsh bottoming-out sensation. Its single-stage elongated spring offers a consistent force curve, catering to users seeking a smooth and subtle typing feel. On the other hand, the milk blue switch is a clicky switch without any specific standout features mentioned and is categorized simply. While the hyacinth focuses on tactile feedback and user comfort, the milk blue switch's strengths may lie elsewhere. However, let's delve deeper beyond generalities so you can 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
N/A
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
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 Milk Blue switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate plastic contributes to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent quality of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches designed to use RGB lighting. The similarities in their top housing material suggest that users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetics when using either switch.
On the other hand, the differences lie in the bottom housing material of the two switches. The KTT Hyacinth utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Outemu Milk Blue also uses a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience with a duller and rounder sound. Despite the different top housing materials, the shared characteristic of having nylon bottom housings in both switches implies that users can enjoy a consistent typing experience in terms of sound quality and feel.
When considering the impact of housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is essential to recognize that the qualities of the bottom housing will influence the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will affect the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the combination of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings in the KTT Hyacinth and Outemu Milk Blue switches respectively allows for a balanced sound profile and typing experience. Whether users prefer a sharper sound profile with polycarbonate or a deeper sound with nylon, both switches offer a unique and enjoyable typing experience depending on individual preferences.
Weight
The KTT Hyacinth linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force, which means that typing on either switch may result in a similar experience in terms of the force needed to fully press a key. Some users may prefer the Hyacinth for its lighter actuation force, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming. Others who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Milk Blue with its heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on the individual's preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The KTT Hyacinth linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it shorter than the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Hyacinth may appeal to gamers looking for a quicker response time, while the longer travel distance of the Milk Blue switch may provide a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distance, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when choosing between the two. If you enjoy a shorter travel distance, the Hyacinth may be the better option for you, while those seeking a longer travel distance may favor the Milk Blue switch.
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 Milk 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
In terms of sound, the Hyacinth linear switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch's sound quality is unknown, so it's difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Hyacinth linear switch is known for its silky smooth typing experience that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Additionally, it offers a subtle resistance that provides a light typing feel without being overly tactile. In contrast, the feel of the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch is not specified, making it challenging to directly compare the two switches in terms of typing feel.
Overall, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch stands out for its balanced tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort with its unique design choices. While the sound and feel of the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch are unknown, it's important to consider all available information when making a decision on which switch to choose for your mechanical keyboard setup. Keep in mind that personal preference plays a significant role in selecting the perfect switch for your typing needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT Hyacinth linear switch or the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you value a smooth and comfortable typing experience with a moderate actuation force, the Hyacinth switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clicky and tactile typing experience without a pronounced bottom out force, the Milk Blue switch could be the ideal option. Consider your desired sound profile, actuation force preference, and typing feel when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics that may suit different individuals depending on their typing style and preferences.
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