KTT Hyacinth vs. Outemu Silver

Overview

When comparing the KTT Hyacinth and the Outemu Silver mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, some key differences emerge. The KTT Hyacinth is unique for its 3.5mm travel distance which aims to provide a balanced tactile feedback, auditory experience, and comfort for users, while also featuring a single-stage elongated spring for a consistent force curve. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver switch lacks specific standout features but offers a different typing experience altogether. While the Hyacinth is categorized as neutral, silky, subtle, the Silver does not fall under any particular category. Both switches have their strengths and weaknesses, but ultimately the choice between them will depend on individual preferences 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

KTT Hyacinth Linear

Outemu Silver Linear

$4.03

$3.75 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

Both the KTT Hyacinth and the Outemu Silver share the use of polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiff nature of polycarbonate, which enhances clarity and resonance. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for those planning to incorporate RGB lighting into their setup. This similarity in material choice ensures that users can expect similar sound profiles and performance between the two switches.

However, when it comes to the bottom housings, the KTT Hyacinth features a nylon material, while the Outemu Silver also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This difference in bottom housing material may lead to a slightly different typing experience between the two switches, as the qualities brought by the nylon material will affect the bottom-out sound and feel of the keystrokes.

In terms of overall typing experience, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the top and bottom housings of both the KTT Hyacinth and the Outemu Silver ensures a well-rounded sound profile. The impact of each housing material is felt at different moments during typing – with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when letting go of a key. Despite the slight variation in bottom housing material, users can expect a harmonious blend of sharpness, depth, and clarity in sound from both switches.

Weight

The KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch have similar actuation forces of 45 grams, making them both light switches in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Hyacinth requires 56 grams, making it lighter compared to the Silver, which needs 65 grams for bottoming out. This means that the Silver switch provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel, while the Hyacinth offers a lighter touch, ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference - whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience.

Travel distance

The KTT Hyacinth linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Silver switch slightly longer in travel distance compared to the Hyacinth. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the Hyacinth being even shorter than the traditional 4.0mm length. Gamers looking for quicker response times may prefer the shorter 3.5mm travel distance of the Hyacinth, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the slightly longer 4mm travel distance of the Silver switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in regards to keypress depth and responsiveness.

Price comparison

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, information about the sound profile of the Outemu Silver linear switch is not available. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

Moving on to the feel, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch is described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience. Additionally, it provides a subtle typing feel with gentle resistance, making it suitable for shared spaces. Unfortunately, there is no information available about the feel of the Outemu Silver linear switch.

Considering the available information, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch seems to excel in providing a neutral sound profile along with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver switch may also offer similar qualities, but without specific details, it's hard to make a direct comparison. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, you should choose the Hyacinth if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and value a design focused on providing a comfortable and balanced typing experience. The Hyacinth's 3.5mm travel distance and single-stage elongated spring offer a unique typing feel that prioritizes user comfort and consistent force. On the other hand, you should opt for the Silver if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and are looking for a switch with no specific standout features. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Hyacinth Linear

$4.03

$3.75 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Silver Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more