KTT Hyacinth vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the KTT Hyacinth and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
In the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Hyacinth and the HMX Swift both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Hyacinth is a linear switch that prioritizes a 3.5mm travel distance to provide a more comfortable typing experience without the harsh bottoming-out feeling. It also utilizes a single-stage elongated spring for a consistent force curve, offering a balance between tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort. On the other hand, the Swift, another linear switch, boasts a deeper sound profile due to its full nylon housings, providing a smoother typing experience with a delicate 42g actuation force. While the Hyacinth is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Silky', and 'Subtle', the Swift is described as 'Clacky', 'Easy-to-press', 'Feathery', 'Bouncy', and 'Creamy'. These distinctions make each switch unique in its own right and appeal to different typing 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
42g
Bottom-out force
56g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Hyacinth and the HMX Swift, both switches feature a nylon bottom housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softness of the nylon material. This results in a duller and rounder sound when compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings. However, while the Hyacinth utilizes a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, the Swift features a nylon top housing which creates a deeper and fuller sound. Therefore, the top housing of the Hyacinth provides a more clear and resonant sound profile compared to the Swift's more absorbing and softer nylon top housing.
In terms of aesthetics, the KTT Hyacinth's polycarbonate top housing offers the advantage of translucency, making it an ideal choice if RGB lighting is a priority. In contrast, the HMX Swift features a nylon top housing which may not provide the same aesthetic appeal as the clear polycarbonate material. While both nylon bottom housings absorb more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller sound profile, the top housings of the switches offer distinct sound characteristics. The polycarbonate top housing of the Hyacinth creates a sharper and crisper sound, while the nylon top housing of the Swift produces a deeper and fuller sound.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Hyacinth and the HMX Swift will depend on individual preferences regarding sound profiles and aesthetics. The split between the bottom and top housings of each switch allows for a unique combination of qualities that impact the overall sound and feel of typing on the switches. Whether you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound with a clear housing for RGB lighting like the Hyacinth, or a deeper, fuller sound with a classic nylon housing like the Swift, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it is evident that the Swift is the lighter option. The Hyacinth has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 56 grams, making it a medium-light switch. On the other hand, the Swift has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, positioning it as a light switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended use, the Swift would be the more suitable choice. However, for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel that requires a stronger push, the Hyacinth would be a better option. In either case, both switches provide distinct typing experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences and needs.
Travel distance
The KTT Hyacinth linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the 3.9 mm travel distance of the HMX Swift linear switch. The shorter travel distance of the Hyacinth may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Swift may provide a more satisfying tactile experience for those who prefer deeper key presses. Both switches offer a different feel and can cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing 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 HMX Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift for $2.99.
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 it comes to 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 HMX Swift linear switch is known for its clacky sound signature, providing a sharp and percussive sound feedback. While the Hyacinth allows for a versatile typing experience with its moderate sound profile, the Swift offers a more distinctive and lively auditory experience, especially for those who enjoy a bright and crisp sound when typing.
In terms of feel, the Hyacinth is described as silky and subtle, offering a smooth and gentle typing experience with minimal resistance. This switch is designed to enhance typing comfort and minimize finger fatigue, making it suitable for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Swift is characterized as easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy, providing a light and responsive typing feel with a spring-like feedback sensation. Both switches prioritize user comfort and typing efficiency, albeit with slightly different tactile feedback and resistance levels.
In conclusion, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Hyacinth provides a neutral sound profile and a silky, subtle typing experience, the Swift boasts a clacky sound signature with an easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy feel. Depending on personal preferences and typing requirements, users can choose between these switches to customize their typing experience. Ultimately, both switches aim to provide a satisfying and comfortable typing experience, ensuring that users can find a suitable match based on their preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, consider your preference in terms of bottom-out force and sound and feel characteristics. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom-out force with a neutral sound profile and a silky, subtle feel, the Hyacinth might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom-out force with a clacky sound profile and easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, or creamy feel, the Swift could be more suitable for your typing needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to individual preferences in terms of typing experience and auditory feedback. Choose wisely based on what aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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