KTT Hyacinth vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the KTT Hyacinth and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options to choose from, each offering unique characteristics to cater to different preferences. Two popular choices in the market are the KTT Hyacinth and Jerrzi Salt Ice switches, both of which are linear switches. The Hyacinth sets itself apart with a 3.5mm travel distance, aiming to provide a balance between tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switches boast bright and clacky characteristics with a light touch, perfect for users looking for an energetic and responsive typing experience. In general, the Hyacinth is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Silky', 'Subtle', while the Salt Ice does not fall under any specific category. However, 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
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
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Hyacinth and Jerrzi Salt Ice switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. The translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for RGB lighting effects. However, where they differ is in the bottom housing material. The Hyacinth utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. In contrast, the Salt Ice features a polycarbonate bottom housing, maintaining the sharper and clearer sound profile associated with this material.
The split housing materials of the KTT Hyacinth and Jerrzi Salt Ice switches result in a unique combination of sound qualities. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the nylon bottom housing in the Hyacinth will be felt, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel with its deeper and fuller tones. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing in both switches will influence the sound when releasing a key, providing a sharper and crisper tone. Despite the differences in bottom housing materials, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing ensures a consistent high-pitched sound profile for both switches.
In conclusion, while both the KTT Hyacinth and Jerrzi Salt Ice switches share polycarbonate top housings for a sharper and clearer sound profile, their housing materials diverge when it comes to the bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing of the Hyacinth offers a deeper and fuller sound experience, thanks to its softer and sound-absorbing qualities, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Salt Ice maintains the sharp and resonant tone associated with this material. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the sound profile preferences of the user, with the Hyacinth offering a distinct depth and roundness, and the Salt Ice providing a brighter and crisper sound.
Weight
Both the KTT Hyacinth and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally responsive in terms of triggering a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Hyacinth has a slightly heavier weight of 56 grams compared to the unknown weight of the Salt Ice. In terms of weight, the Hyacinth is considered medium-light, which may be preferred by users who like a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time. On the other hand, the lack of information on the bottom out force for the Salt Ice switch may make it harder to determine if it is suitable for those who prefer a heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Hyacinth linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, slightly longer than the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch which has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those seeking faster response times, particularly gamers. The difference of 0.1 mm between the two may not be noticeable to most users, but for those who prefer a slightly longer travel distance, the Hyacinth may be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
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 Jerrzi Salt Ice has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Salt Ice for $2.30.
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
When comparing the sound of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch to the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, it is evident that the Hyacinth offers a neutral sound profile which is suitable for various typing environments and experience levels. On the other hand, the Salt Ice is known for its exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics, providing a vibrant and energetic typing experience. While the Hyacinth provides a more versatile sound profile, the Salt Ice is preferred by users seeking a more distinctive and lively auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the Hyacinth switch is praised for its silky smooth typing experience, offering minimal resistance and a comfortable feel when pressing and releasing keys. Additionally, it features a subtle typing feel with a gentle resistance, making it suitable for shared spaces where noise may be a concern. Unfortunately, the specific descriptions of the feel of the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch are not available. However, based on its bright and clacky sound profile, it can be inferred that the Salt Ice switch may offer a more tactile and responsive typing feel compared to the Hyacinth.
In conclusion, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Hyacinth excels in providing a versatile and smooth typing experience with a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switch stands out for its bright and clacky characteristics, offering a more vibrant and energetic typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, design philosophy, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and value a unique design with a 3.5mm travel distance for a comfortable typing experience, the Hyacinth may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you seek a switch with bright and clacky characteristics, along with a light touch for an energetic typing experience, the Salt Ice could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, it depends on your personal preferences and typing style.
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