KTT Hyacinth vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the KTT Hyacinth and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Hyacinth and the Outemu Red Panda are two distinct mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features and experiences. The Hyacinth stands out for its design choice of a 3.5mm travel distance, aiming to provide a balanced combination of tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort. By deviating from the mainstream trend of using dual-stage elongated springs, the Hyacinth offers a more consistent force curve. On the other hand, the Red Panda provides a light-medium amount of tactility accompanied by a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. While the Hyacinth is categorized as neutral, silky, and subtle, the Red Panda falls into the categories of thocky and mild. Both switches have their unique characteristics and advantages, making them suitable for diverse preferences. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
56g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
The KTT Hyacinth and the Outemu Red Panda both feature polycarbonate top housings. This material choice provides several benefits to the switches. Firstly, polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switches. Both switches are also visually appealing, as the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for stunning RGB lighting effects. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when using either the Hyacinth or the Red Panda.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both the Hyacinth and the Red Panda utilize nylon as the material of choice. Nylon is considered a classic switch housing material due to its ability to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. Unlike polycarbonate, nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This creates a distinct typing experience for users. As the bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, both switches will exhibit similar qualities in this aspect. Therefore, users can expect a similar typing experience characterized by a deeper and fuller sound regardless of whether they choose the Hyacinth or the Red Panda.
Overall, the housing materials used in the KTT Hyacinth and the Outemu Red Panda, while sharing some similarities, also have key differences. Both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. They also allow for the use of RGB lighting, thanks to their translucency. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housings of both switches create a deeper and fuller sound profile, but with a duller and rounder tone due to the softer and more sound-absorbing nature of nylon. Ultimately, while there may be subtle variations in the sound and feel between the two switches, users can expect a satisfying and distinct typing experience from either the Hyacinth or the Red Panda.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. In terms of weight, the Hyacinth is lighter than the Red Panda, with an actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Red Panda's 50 grams. This lighter actuation force of the Hyacinth may be preferred by those who type for extended periods or engage in lengthy gaming sessions.
On the other hand, the Hyacinth has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 56 grams, whereas the Red Panda has a bottom out force of 60 grams, meaning that the Red Panda requires a slightly larger force to fully press down the key. This heavier bottom out force can provide users with a more substantial typing experience, offering a stronger push feel.
In summary, the Hyacinth offers a lighter actuation force but a slightly heavier bottom out force, making it suitable for users who prefer prolonged typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Red Panda provides a slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force, appealing to individuals seeking a more substantial and robust keystroke experience. Nevertheless, both switches offer similar results, as they fall within the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, it is clear that the Hyacinth has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Red Panda has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distance options, which have become increasingly popular in recent times. Gamers, in particular, tend to favor shorter travel distances for quicker response times. Therefore, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Red Panda with its slightly shorter travel distance would be the preferable option. However, it is worth noting that some individuals find shorter travel distances to feel more abrupt. If you prefer a more substantial key press, the Hyacinth with its slightly longer travel distance would be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming 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 Red Panda comes in at $3.40 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 offers a neutral experience, with a moderate sound profile that is suitable for most users and environments. It neither leans towards a deep, thocky sound nor a high-pitched clacky sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda provides a thocky sound, characterized by a deep, rich, and satisfying tone when pressed and released. This gives it a distinct auditory experience compared to the Hyacinth. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Hyacinth offers a silky typing experience, characterized by an exceptionally smooth feel when pressing and releasing keys. This switch minimizes resistance and enhances overall smoothness, providing a pleasant tactile experience. Additionally, the Hyacinth is described as having a subtle resistance, which means it maintains a light typing feel without being feather-light. Its sound signature is also not resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda is described as providing a mild typing experience. It offers a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Overall, the Red Panda falls in a safe middle ground, making it approachable to most users in terms of feel.
Based on the available information, the KTT Hyacinth and the Outemu Red Panda offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Hyacinth is characterized by a neutral sound profile and a silky, subtle typing feel. On the other hand, the Red Panda provides a thocky sound and a mild typing experience. Both switches have their unique qualities, allowing users to choose according to their personal preferences. It is important to consider other factors such as keycaps and keyboard board when evaluating the overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, it is important to consider your individual preferences and needs.
If you prioritize a smooth and comfortable typing experience, with minimal resistance and a gentle typing feel, the Hyacinth is an excellent choice. Its silky feel and subtle resistance make it suitable for extended typing sessions without causing fatigue. Additionally, the Hyacinth's sound profile is neutral, making it versatile and appropriate for various environments, whether you are a beginner or an advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work.
On the other hand, if you value a more pronounced tactile feedback and enjoy a deep and satisfying sound when pressing and releasing keys, the Red Panda is the switch for you. The Red Panda offers a light-medium amount of tactility and produces a thocky sound, resembling a deep "thud" or a soft "knock." This switch provides a pleasant typing experience that is approachable to most users, as it stands in a safe, middle-ground zone between more pronounced characteristics.
Ultimately, the decision between the Hyacinth and the Red Panda depends on your personal preferences regarding typing feel, sound, and the level of tactile feedback you desire. Consider your typing style and environment to determine which switch will enhance your overall typing experience the most.
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