KTT Hyacinth vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the KTT Hyacinth and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Hyacinth and the SP-Star Polaris Purple are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features and benefits. The Hyacinth is a linear switch with a 3.5mm travel distance, specifically designed to avoid the common hard bottoming-out experience. It aims to strike a perfect balance between tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort. Additionally, the Hyacinth stands out with its use of a single-stage elongated spring, providing a more consistent force curve. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple is a tactile switch known for its big tactile bump, offering an exhilarating typing experience. Its sound profile is described as snappy, adding to the overall satisfaction of using this switch. While these general descriptions may help you in making a choice, 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
56g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The KTT Hyacinth and the SP-Star Polaris Purple both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, its translucency makes it ideal for RGB lighting effects. The similarities in the housing material suggest that both switches will produce similar sound profiles and aesthetics when it comes to the top housing.
However, the bottom housings of the two switches differ in terms of material. The Hyacinth features a nylon bottom housing, which creates 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 the switch. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, similar to its top housing. This means that the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch will have a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper profile due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate.
Considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall sound profile, it can be concluded that the Hyacinth will have a combination of crispness and depth due to its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing. In contrast, the Polaris Purple will offer a more consistent sharp and resonant sound profile throughout. Both switches showcase the benefits of polycarbonate in terms of clarity and aesthetics in their top housings, but the difference in bottom housing materials gives each switch its unique sound characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The Hyacinth has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 56 grams, making it a medium-light switch. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple's actuation force is unavailable, but it has a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This means that the Hyacinth requires a lighter touch to trigger a keystroke, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Polaris Purple offers a heavier push feel, providing a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer that. Both switches have their advantages, as some may favor the Hyacinth for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may find the Polaris Purple more satisfying for its stronger push. Regardless of the differences, it is worth noting that both switches provide a satisfying response when bottoming out, ensuring a satisfactory typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch have different travel distances. The Hyacinth has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Polaris Purple has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Polaris Purple has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Hyacinth. In terms of traditional standards, 4 mm is considered the most common travel distance, while 3.5 mm is slightly shorter. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. The Hyacinth would be a suitable choice in this case. However, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel abrupt or lacking in depth. For those who prefer a more substantial feeling when pressing down on a key, the Polaris Purple with its longer travel distance may be a better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness or depth.
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 SP-Star Polaris Purple has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Purple for $5.00.
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, both the KTT Hyacinth and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they have a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making them suitable for most intents and purposes. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps. Therefore, depending on these additional factors, you may experience slight differences in sound between the two switches, but overall, you can expect similar results.
In terms of feel, the KTT Hyacinth is described as having a silky and subtle typing experience. A silky switch offers an exceptionally smooth typing feel, enhancing the overall smoothness and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The subtle characteristic of the switch refers to its gentle resistance, which is not feather-light but still maintains a light typing feel. Additionally, the sound signature of the Hyacinth is not resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces.
On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches offer a mild typing experience. These switches provide a more gentle typing feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The sound and feel of the Polaris Purple switches are approachable to most users, as their qualities fall within a safe middle-ground zone. Furthermore, the Polaris Purple switches are described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, both the KTT Hyacinth and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches have their own unique qualities. The Hyacinth switches are designed to offer a balanced tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort with their 3.5mm travel distance and single-stage elongated spring. They provide a silky and subtle typing experience, making them ideal for individuals looking for smoothness and quietness. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple switches offer a thrilling tactile typing experience with their big tactile bump. They have a mild typing feel and a polished finish, resulting in a more gentle and refined typing experience.
If you are looking for a switch with a neutral sound profile, both the Hyacinth and the Polaris Purple switches would be suitable choices. However, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience, the Hyacinth switches would be a better fit. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback and a slightly more gentle typing experience, the Polaris Purple switches would be a great option. It's important to consider your personal preferences and typing style when choosing between these two switches to ensure the best typing experience for you.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and comfortable typing experience, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch would be a great choice for you. With its 3.5mm travel distance and single-stage elongated spring, it offers a consistent force curve and avoids the hard bottoming-out experience. The Hyacinth is designed to provide a balance between tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort. Additionally, if you prefer a switch with a silky and subtle feel, the Hyacinth will deliver a smooth typing experience with minimal resistance.
On the other hand, if you are seeking an exhilarating tactile typing experience with a snappy sound profile, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch would be a better fit for you. With its big tactile bump, typing on the Polaris Purple will provide a satisfying feedback. Moreover, if you are looking for a switch that offers a more gentle typing experience, the Polaris Purple falls into the mild category, providing a safe middle-ground zone for both sound and feel. Additionally, the Polaris Purple is described as polished, which means it offers a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience.
Overall, the choice between the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch depends on your preference for key travel distance, force curve, and level of tactile feedback. Consider the Hyacinth if you prioritize a silky and subtle typing experience, while the Polaris Purple is a great option if you desire a more exhilarating tactile feel and a snappy sound profile.
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