KTT Hyacinth vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the KTT Hyacinth and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Hyacinth and the Dareu Snow both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Hyacinth is praised for its 3.5mm travel distance, aiming to provide a comfortable typing experience without the hard bottoming-out feel common in longer stem switches. With a single-stage elongated spring and a focus on consistency in force curve, the Hyacinth is labeled as ['Neutral', 'Silky', 'Subtle']. On the other hand, the Snow switch distinguishes itself by utilizing POK material for both the top housing and stem, resulting in a deeper sound signature and smooth linear feel. Categorized as ['Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', 'Bouncy'], the Snow switch offers a different typing experience compared to the Hyacinth. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
56g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Hyacinth and the Dareu Snow, both keyboards utilize nylon for the bottom housing. This classic switch housing material is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. The nylon bottom housing in both keyboards contributes to a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switches. Additionally, the nylon material provides durability and impact resistance, ensuring the longevity of the switches.
However, when it comes to the top housing material, the KTT Hyacinth features a polycarbonate housing while the Dareu Snow uses a POK housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Its translucency makes it ideal for RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, POK material is extremely smooth, clacky, and durable, with wear resistance that surpasses other materials like POM and Nylon. The POK top housing in the Dareu Snow contributes to the overall smoothness and durability of the switches, offering a different sound profile compared to the Hyacinth's polycarbonate top housing.
In terms of overall performance, the choice of housing materials in both keyboards caters to different sound preferences and typing experiences. While both keyboards use nylon for the bottom housing, the KTT Hyacinth's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and clearer sound profile, while the Dareu Snow's POK top housing offers smoothness and durability. The contrasting qualities of the top housing materials impact the sound profile when pressing down and releasing keys. Ultimately, the housing materials play a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience and sound quality of the keyboards.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch differ slightly in terms of weight. The Hyacinth has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 56 grams, while the Snow has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. The Hyacinth is considered medium-light in terms of force, while the Snow falls into the medium category. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience or longer typing sessions, the Hyacinth may be the more suitable option. However, for individuals who prefer a stronger push feel and more substantial typing experience, the Snow with its slightly heavier force may be preferred. Overall, the difference in force between the two switches may provide users with the opportunity to choose based on their preferred typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Hyacinth linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Dareu Snow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for gamers looking for fast response times. The Hyacinth has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Snow, which may provide a slightly deeper feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two would come down to personal preference in terms of whether you prefer a slightly longer or shorter travel distance for your 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 Dareu Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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 linear switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound, providing a deep and satisfying typing experience. The choice between the two switches will largely depend on personal preference for sound, as well as factors like the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Turning to the feel of the switches, the KTT Hyacinth is described as offering a silky and subtle typing experience, emphasizing smoothness and a gentle resistance. This creates a comfortable and quiet typing environment, making it suitable for shared spaces. In contrast, the Dareu Snow switch provides a bouncy feel with spring-like feedback, giving users a more lively typing sensation. When considering the feel of the switches, users should consider if they prefer smoothness and subtlety or a more energetic typing experience.
In conclusion, the KTT Hyacinth and Dareu Snow linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Hyacinth provides a neutral sound profile and a silky, subtle typing feel, the Snow switch offers a thocky, low-pitched sound and a bouncy typing experience. Both switches have their strengths and can cater to different preferences, so users should consider their own typing style and environment when choosing between the two. Ultimately, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of performance and comfort regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
In closing, if you're looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a 3.5mm travel distance to avoid a hard bottoming-out experience, then the KTT Hyacinth linear switch is the way to go. The Hyacinth excels in providing a smooth typing experience with a consistent force curve, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users in any setting. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force with a deep sound signature and innovative use of POK material, then the Dareu Snow linear switch is the better choice for you. The Snow offers a bouncy feedback sensation that adds a lively feel to your typing experience, ideal for those who enjoy a bit of rebound when pressing keys. Ultimately, the decision between the Hyacinth and Snow switches comes down to your personal preferences in terms of typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force.
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