KTT Hyacinth vs. HMX Sunset Gleam

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Hyacinth and the HMX Sunset Gleam both offer unique experiences for users seeking linear switches, though they come with their distinct characteristics. The KTT Hyacinth is designed with a concise 3.5mm travel distance, specifically aimed at reducing the jarring sensation of bottoming-out, ensuring a smoother typing experience. Additionally, its single-stage elongated spring promotes a consistent force curve, appealing to those who value a neutral, silky touch with subtle feedback. On the other hand, the HMX Sunset Gleam, affectionately known as the Duck Duck switch, shines with its well-crafted materials that provide a satisfyingly subtle top-out accompanied by a pleasant clack, thanks in no small part to the impressive factory lube HMX is known for. While the Hyacinth emphasizes comfort and an even feel, the Sunset Gleam focuses on a deft auditory experience along with a smooth actuation. Ultimately, your choice may depend on whether you prioritize a balanced, gentle typing experience or a more expressive sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

KTT Hyacinth Linear

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$4.03

$3.75 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Hyacinth and HMX Sunset Gleam, it is noteworthy that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This shared material choice contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, which enhances the overall auditory experience of the switches. Polycarbonate's stiffness plays a significant role in creating a clear and resonant sound, leading to a pronounced acoustic quality regardless of the switch. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it particularly favorable for RGB lighting applications, allowing for vibrant illumination to shine through the switch casing effectively. As a result, users of both switches can expect similar aesthetic and acoustic outcomes due to the identical top housing materials.

On the other hand, the bottom housings of the KTT Hyacinth and HMX Sunset Gleam are made from nylon. This classic material is known for its softer nature, which absorbs more sound, thereby producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. When typing on these switches, the nylon bottom housing contributes to a duller and rounder acoustic experience, which contrasts with the crispness achieved through the polycarbonate top. This combination of materials—each bringing distinct sound qualities—ensures that the switches offer a unique typing experience, blending the clarity of the polycarbonate with the warmth of the nylon.

Ultimately, the interplay between the top and bottom housings of the KTT Hyacinth and HMX Sunset Gleam distinctly shapes their overall performance. While both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing, the differing impact of the nylon bottom housing results in a balanced acoustic profile where the highs and lows interact. Users will experience resonant clarity upon release, attributed to the polycarbonate, while the softer nylon enriches the sound upon actuation. This deliberate pairing of materials offers a harmonious typing experience, merging the strengths of both to cater to the preferences of switch enthusiasts and users alike.

Weight

When comparing the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, their actuation and bottom out forces reveal notable differences. The Hyacinth has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, while the Sunset Gleam offers a lighter feel with an actuation force of 42 grams. This means that users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may gravitate towards the Sunset Gleam. In terms of bottom out forces, the Hyacinth again feels more substantial at 56 grams compared to the Sunset Gleam’s 48 grams. Consequently, those seeking a more robust typing experience may find the Hyacinth more suitable, while the Sunset Gleam caters to users desiring a lighter and softer keystroke. Overall, the Sunset Gleam is the lighter option, making it ideal for those who prioritize comfort and prolonged use, while the Hyacinth provides a more pronounced resistance for a firmer typing experience.

Travel distance

Both the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm, meaning that users will experience similar tactile feedback and keypress depth with both switches. Since both switches require the same distance to be pressed down from the top to the bottom, they will provide a comparable typing experience in terms of travel distance. As such, users seeking a consistent feel in their keyboard usage will find both switches equally effective.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch provides a neutral acoustic profile. This moderate sound level makes the switch versatile and appropriate for both office environments and casual home use, catering well to both newcomers and seasoned typists alike. The Sunset Gleam's sound qualities, however, remain unspecified, leaving a gap in comparative assessment. It’s noteworthy that the audible characteristics of both switches can be influenced by external factors like the keyboard's construction, switch housing, and keycap materials.

When focusing on the feel, the Hyacinth is characterized by its silky smoothness, which significantly enhances the overall typing experience by minimizing resistance during key presses and releases. Additionally, it has a subtle resistance that maintains a light yet satisfying typing sensation without being overly pronounced. In contrast, the feel characteristics of the Sunset Gleam haven't been detailed, creating an unknown variable on how this switch compares in terms of tactile sensation and feedback.

Overall, the KTT Hyacinth stands out with its well-balanced sound and smooth feel, making it a reliable choice for various typing situations. While the Sunset Gleam offers an attractive proposition with its blend of materials and factory lube, its specific sound and feel characteristics remain unexamined. Ultimately, if you’re looking for well-rounded usability, the Hyacinth delivers a consistent experience, while the Sunset Gleam may hold potential for users seeking something different. Without further information on the Sunset Gleam, one might find the Hyacinth to be more predictable and reliable for their typing needs.

Conclusion

In summary, choosing between the KTT Hyacinth and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switches depends on your typing preferences and the environments in which you plan to utilize them. If you value a medium-light bottom-out force for a balanced typing experience, the Hyacinth is an excellent choice, particularly if you prefer a silky and subtle feel with a neutral sound profile. It's especially suitable for a shared workspace where you want comfort without overwhelming auditory feedback. Conversely, if you lean towards a lighter typing experience, the Sunset Gleam might be your switch of choice. Its light bottom-out force combined with a satisfying clack—thanks to HMX's factory lube—can add a bit of flair to your typing while still being appropriate for various settings. Ultimately, your decision should reflect what aspects are most important to you, be it the tactile feedback and sound profiling or the smoothness and ease of actuation. Each switch has its unique character, so consider your typing style and environment to select the one that best complements your needs.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Hyacinth Linear

$4.03

$3.75 per 10

Learn more

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more