KTT Hyacinth vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black

Overview

If you're in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, you may be considering the KTT Hyacinth and the Gateron Silent Ink Black. Both switches fall under the category of linear switches, providing a smooth and consistent keystroke experience. The Hyacinth sets itself apart with its unique design choice of a 3.5mm travel distance, aiming to eliminate the harsh bottoming-out feeling commonly associated with longer-stemmed switches. In contrast, the Silent Ink Black offers a cushion-like bottom-out feel and minimal audio feedback, making it an ideal choice for quieter environments. While both switches share a "silky" characteristic, the Hyacinth leans towards a more neutral and subtle typing experience, while the Silent Ink Black leans towards a muted and polished feel. However, let's delve deeper into the specifics of each switch to help you make the best decision for your needs.

By the numbers

KTT Hyacinth Linear

Gateron Silent Ink Black Linear

$4.03

$3.75 per 10

$8.50

$8.35 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the KTT Hyacinth and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches have distinct differences. The Hyacinth utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which produces a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent quality of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Silent Ink Black features Gateron's proprietary INK blend top housing, characterized by a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is not overly sharp. It is often described as clacky, providing a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound.

In terms of the bottom housing, the Hyacinth employs a nylon material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend bottom housing, which also contributes to its pointed and high-pitched sound profile. Similar to the top housing, this creates a clacky sound that is distinct and satisfying.

While the housing materials differ between the two switches, they serve similar purposes in terms of sound profile. Polycarbonate and nylon create sharper and deeper sounds, respectively, in the Hyacinth, while Gateron's INK blend offers a clacky and high-pitched sound in both the top and bottom housing of the Silent Ink Black. However, it's important to note that the specific qualities of each housing material will influence different aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, there are notable differences. The Hyacinth has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, while the Silent Ink Black requires a slightly heavier 60 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Hyacinth is lighter at 56 grams compared to the Silent Ink Black's 70 grams.

The weight of a switch is an important factor to consider, as it can affect the typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter feel may opt for the Hyacinth, as it allows for longer typing periods without causing fatigue. This lighter actuation force is particularly beneficial for individuals who use their keyboards extensively at work or during long gaming sessions.

In contrast, the Silent Ink Black offers a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. The increased force required gives a stronger push feel, which some individuals find more satisfying. This option is better suited for those who prefer a more tactile typing experience.

Ultimately, the choice between the Hyacinth and Silent Ink Black depends on individual preferences and typing styles. If one desires a lighter typing feel for extended use, the Hyacinth would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience are preferred, the Silent Ink Black would be the better option. Both switches provide different tactile experiences, allowing users to select the switch that best aligns with their needs.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Hyacinth has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the traditional distance of 4.0 mm. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This distinction can make a significant impact on the typing or gaming experience. Gamers, especially, tend to prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. So, if you are after a more responsive switch, the Hyacinth with its shorter travel distance would be a better choice. However, some individuals may find short travel distances to feel too abrupt. For those who prefer a more substantial depth to their keystrokes, the Silent Ink Black with its longer travel distance would provide a more satisfying experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference and the specific feel you desire when pressing down on a key.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it produces a moderate sound that is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you are using the switch at home or in a work environment. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch is described as producing a muted sound. This switch is designed to minimize noise, making it ideal for environments that require quieter typing. It is important to note, however, that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, both the KTT Hyacinth and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switches are described as offering a silky typing experience. This means that they provide an exceptionally smooth feel when typing, enhancing overall typing smoothness and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Additionally, the KTT Hyacinth switch is also described as having a subtle resistance, which provides a light typing feel. The Gateron Silent Ink Black switch, on the other hand, is described as having a polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.

Overall, the KTT Hyacinth and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switches each have their unique qualities. The Hyacinth switch focuses on providing a balanced tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort with its design choice of a 3.5mm travel distance and single-stage elongated spring. It offers a neutral sound profile and a silky, subtle typing feel. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black switch prioritizes providing a quieter typing experience with its muted sound profile and cushion-like bottom-out feel. It also offers a silky typing feel with a polished finish. While different in some aspects, both switches offer smooth typing experiences and would be suitable for users who prefer a quieter and smoother typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-light switch with a moderate sound profile and a silky smooth typing experience, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch is a great choice for you. Its 3.5mm travel distance helps avoid a hard bottoming-out experience and offers an ideal balance between tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort. The Hyacinth switch also deviates from the mainstream trend by using a single-stage elongated spring, providing a more consistent force curve. On the other hand, if you need a medium-heavy switch that produces a softer and quieter sound, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch is the way to go. It offers a plush bottom-out feel with minimal audio feedback. Additionally, both switches are described as silky, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience. However, the Silent Ink Black switch is also described as polished, resulting in a sleek and refined typing experience due to factory lubing or the materials used. Overall, both switches have their unique characteristics and are suitable for different preferences and environments.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Hyacinth Linear

$4.03

$3.75 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Silent Ink Black Linear

$8.50

$8.35 per 10

Learn more