KTT Hyacinth vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the KTT Hyacinth and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Hyacinth and SP-Star Duck are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct experiences for users. The Hyacinth stands out for its design choice of a 3.5mm travel distance, which avoids the common issue of hard bottoming-out experienced with longer stems. This decision showcases the Hyacinth's commitment to creating an ideal balance between tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort. Additionally, the Hyacinth deviates from the mainstream trend of using dual-stage elongated springs, instead opting for a single-stage elongated spring for a more consistent force curve. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck provides a more subtle tactile typing experience, with a gentle tactility and a clean and crispy sound profile. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
56g
Bottom-out force
58g
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 housing materials of the KTT Hyacinth and the SP-Star Duck share several similarities, particularly when it comes to their polycarbonate top housings. Both switches utilize polycarbonate, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, leading to a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows for a more visually pleasing aesthetic.
However, the bottom housings of the two switches differ. The Hyacinth's nylon bottom housing offers a unique typing experience, producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, it creates a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing provides a similar sharp, higher-pitched sound profile as the top housing. The relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound. While the bottom housing may affect the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, the top housing has more influence on the sound when releasing a key.
In summary, both the Hyacinth and Duck switches benefit from the qualities of polycarbonate in their top housings, which create a sharper and crisper sound profile. However, the bottom housings differentiate the two switches. The Hyacinth's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer and more sound-absorbing nature. On the other hand, the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharp and resonant sound profile associated with its top housing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on the desired sound experience and aesthetic preferences, particularly regarding RGB lighting.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. The actuation force of the Hyacinth is 45 grams, while the exact actuation force of the Duck is not provided. However, both switches have a bottom out force of 58 grams, which suggests a similar level of resistance when fully pressed.
In terms of weight, the Hyacinth is lighter as it has a lower actuation force compared to the Duck. This lighter actuation force may be advantageous for those who prefer a quicker and more effortless typing experience, allowing them to type for longer periods without fatigue. It is particularly beneficial when using the keyboard for work or during extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Duck provides a stronger push feel due to its higher actuation force, offering a more substantial and tactile typing experience. This can be appealing to individuals who prefer a more pronounced and satisfying key press.
In conclusion, while the actuation force of the Hyacinth is lighter compared to the Duck, both switches share a similar bottom out force. Thus, individuals seeking a medium-light typing experience may find the Hyacinth to be a suitable choice, while those desiring a medium-level resistance and a more robust typing feel may prefer the Duck.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, it is evident that the two switches have different distances. The Hyacinth has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Duck has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. These differences may seem small, but they can greatly impact the typing experience.
The Hyacinth's travel distance of 3.5 mm places it on the shorter end of the spectrum. Gamers, in particular, often prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. The shorter distance means that the key can be pressed and released more quickly, enabling swift movements while gaming. If you are in need of a keyboard that offers a high level of responsiveness, the Hyacinth would be a suitable choice.
On the other hand, the Duck's travel distance of 4 mm places it closer to the traditional travel distance. Some users may find that this extra depth provides a more satisfying typing experience. The longer travel distance allows for a more deliberate press of the keys, which can offer a sense of control and precision. If you prioritize a deeper and more substantial feel when typing, the Duck would be the better option.
Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences. If you value faster response times and a shorter distance, the Hyacinth is the way to go. However, if you prefer a more substantial and deliberate typing experience, the Duck's longer travel distance will be more suitable. In both cases, it is important to note that these switches offer different sensations, and choosing the one that aligns with your preferences will ensure a more enjoyable 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 SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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 Duck switches have a neutral sound profile. This means that they have a moderate actuation force requirement and produce a moderate sound, making them suitable for most purposes. 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 switch is described as silky and subtle. A silky switch offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Additionally, the subtle resistance of the Hyacinth switch provides a gentle typing feel, and the sound signature is not resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces.
On the other hand, the Duck switch is described as mild, buttery, and polished. A mild switch offers a more gentle typing experience, while a buttery switch provides a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. The polished nature of the Duck switch results in a sleek typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, both the KTT Hyacinth and the SP-Star Duck switches have subjective qualities that make them desirable to different users. The Hyacinth excels in providing a silky and subtle typing experience, while the Duck offers a mild, buttery, and polished feel. Both switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a variety of purposes. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the individual's preference for typing feel and desired sound profile.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a switch with a moderate actuation force and a clean and crispy sound profile, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch would be a great choice. These switches offer a subtle tactile typing experience and are perfect for those who prefer a more gentle resistance and a mild typing feel. The Duck switches also provide a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, making typing seamless and effortless. Additionally, the polished finish of these switches results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a 3.5mm travel distance to avoid a hard bottoming-out experience, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch would be an ideal option. These switches balance tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort by deviating from the mainstream trend of using dual-stage elongated springs and opting for a single-stage elongated spring instead. The Hyacinth switches have a medium-light bottom out force of 56 grams and offer a silky and smooth typing experience.
Ultimately, both the Hyacinth and Duck switches have a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making them suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you're a beginner or advanced user or planning to use them at home or work. It ultimately comes down to personal preference - whether you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience with clean and crispy sound (Duck) or a smooth and silky typing experience with a 3.5mm travel distance (Hyacinth).
In the end, the choice between the two switches depends on the specific typing experience you are seeking and the features that matter most to you.
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