KTT Hyacinth vs. Outemu Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the KTT Hyacinth and the Outemu Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the ktt hyacinth linear switch to the Outemu milk tea tactile switch, it is clear that both offer unique features catering to different preferences. The hyacinth stands out with its design choice of a 3.5mm travel distance, aiming to provide a balanced tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort by avoiding the common hard bottoming-out feeling. In contrast, the milk tea switch does not have any standout features mentioned but is categorized as standard. The hyacinth also deviates from the mainstream trend by using a single-stage elongated spring, prioritizing a more consistent force curve. On the other hand, the milk tea switch lacks specific details but could potentially offer a different typing experience altogether. However, let's delve 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
N/A
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
Ly
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
The KTT Hyacinth and the Outemu Milk Tea both feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile with a clear and resonant sound. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for a more vibrant sound when typing, especially when coupled with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Milk Tea's Ly top housing offers a very bright sound signature, producing resonant clacks during typing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate to enhance the overall sound profile, making them ideal choices for users looking for a more distinct auditory experience.
In terms of the bottom housings, both the Hyacinth and the Milk Tea utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with such housings. The qualities of the nylon bottom housing in both switches contribute to a more subdued and impactful typing experience, allowing users to enjoy a quieter but richer sound when using these switches. Overall, the use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches highlights the importance of material choice in achieving specific sound characteristics.
While both the Hyacinth and the Milk Tea have unique housing materials for their top and bottom housings, the qualities each material brings to the switches are evident in their overall sound profiles. The split between the bottom and top housings allows for a dynamic typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel while the top housing influences the sound when letting go of a key. Whether it's the polycarbonate top housing of the Hyacinth or the unique Ly top housing of the Milk Tea, users can expect a distinct sound signature that caters to different preferences and typing styles.
Weight
The actuation force of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch are both 45 grams, making them equally light in terms of initial key press. However, the bottom out force of the Hyacinth is 56 grams, while the bottom out force of the Milk Tea is unknown. As a result, the Hyacinth provides a slightly heavier typing experience when fully pressing the keys compared to the Milk Tea. For those who enjoy a lighter feel while typing for extended periods, the Milk Tea may be the preferable option. On the other hand, individuals looking for a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Hyacinth due to its slightly heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for key press weight and typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Milk Tea switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Hyacinth switch. The Hyacinth switch offers a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch provides a bit more depth, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more pronounced key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
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 Tea 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, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch is unknown, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch is described as silky, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Additionally, the switch offers a subtle tactile feedback, ensuring a light typing feel without any loud or resonant sound signature. Unfortunately, information on the tactile feel of the Outemu Milk Tea switch is not available, making it challenging to make a direct comparison in this category.
Overall, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch offers a unique design with a 3.5mm travel distance and a single-stage elongated spring, aiming to provide a balanced tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort. Its sound profile is neutral and its feel is described as silky and subtle. On the other hand, information on the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch is limited, so it is difficult to provide a comprehensive comparison. However, based on the available information, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch seems to offer a well-rounded experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch, consider your preference for a medium-light bottom out force and a unique 3.5mm travel distance with the Hyacinth. Opt for the Hyacinth if you value a consistent force curve and a smooth, silky typing experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize a switch with no specified bottom out force and unknown characteristics, the Milk Tea may be the right choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual typing preferences and desired typing experience.
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