KTT Hyacinth vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the merits of various options, and two notable contenders are the KTT Hyacinth and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy), both of which are linear switches that provide distinct experiences. The KTT Hyacinth is acclaimed for its innovative design, featuring a travel distance of 3.5mm that minimizes the hard bottoming-out sensation commonly associated with longer stems; this enhances user comfort while delivering a balance of tactile feedback and auditory satisfaction. Additionally, the Hyacinth utilizes a single-stage elongated spring, resulting in a more consistent force curve that appeals to those seeking a smooth, predictable keystroke. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) distinguishes itself with its Ly stems, celebrated for their exceptionally smooth typing experience and resonant sound profile, which adds a layer of auditory pleasure to every press. While both switches cater to linear switch fans, their unique characteristics may appeal to different preferences—whether it’s the KTT Hyacinth for its thoughtfully designed travel distance and spring mechanism, or the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) for its silky smoothness and inviting sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing style.

By the numbers

KTT Hyacinth Linear

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$4.03

$3.75 per 10

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the KTT Hyacinth and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) are strikingly similar, as both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This choice contributes to a clearer, more resonant sound profile resulting from the stiffness of the polycarbonate material. Both switches exhibit a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper auditory characteristic that appeals to users seeking precision in their typing experience. Moreover, the translucency of polycarbonate not only enhances the aesthetic appeal by allowing for effective RGB lighting display but also maximizes the visual enjoyment of illuminated typing. Because both switches share this defining feature, users can expect a comparable auditory experience from the top half of both switches.

On the other hand, the bottom housings of the KTT Hyacinth and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) are both made of nylon, another material known for its distinctive acoustic properties. The use of nylon in the bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, primarily due to its softer nature, which absorbs sound more efficiently than harder plastics. While the top housing contributes to the sound produced when releasing a key, the nylon bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. As a result, users can expect a more subdued and rounded auditory experience when engaging with the keys on both switches, driven by the unique acoustic qualities of nylon.

Despite their individual differences in sound profile characteristics from the top and bottom housings, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in both the KTT Hyacinth and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) creates a well-rounded typing experience. While the crisper sound from the polycarbonate top housing conveys clarity, the fuller sound from the nylon bottom housing offers a delightful contrast. Therefore, whether you choose the Hyacinth or the Tomcat (Heavy), the synergy between the two housings allows users to enjoy a balanced sound profile, pairing the best of both materials to achieve satisfying acoustic results while typing.

Weight

The KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch differ significantly in both actuation force and bottom out force, reflecting their distinct tactile experiences. The Hyacinth has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Tomcat's heavier 55 grams, which might appeal to typists seeking a less strenuous option for prolonged use. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Hyacinth is 56 grams, while the Tomcat's is 64 grams, reinforcing the idea that the Tomcat provides a firmer feel throughout the keystroke journey. Consequently, the Hyacinth, being on the medium-light side, is ideal for users who appreciate a lighter touch, particularly during extended typing or gaming sessions. Conversely, the Tomcat, categorized as medium-heavy, caters to those who favor a more substantial typing feedback, making it a suitable option for individuals who prefer a stronger push feel. Overall, the Hyacinth is the lighter option, while the Tomcat (Heavy) is the heavier choice, delivering both contrasting actuation experiences and differential typing sensations.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, the Hyacinth features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Tomcat (Heavy) has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that if you choose the Hyacinth, you will experience a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, which is often preferred by gamers seeking fast key actuations. Conversely, those who enjoy a more substantial feel while typing might favor the Tomcat (Heavy) for its greater travel distance, as it provides a deeper press that some users find more satisfying. Thus, while both switches offer relatively similar travel distances, the Hyacinth is the shorter of the two, making it a better choice for those who prioritize responsiveness, whereas the Tomcat (Heavy) caters to those who prefer a more pronounced depth in their keystrokes.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch offers a neutral profile, characterized by a moderate actuation force and sound level. This makes it versatile and suitable for a wide range of environments, whether it's a personal workspace or a more public setting. The design ensures that the auditory feedback is unobtrusive, making it an excellent choice for individuals who appreciate a balanced acoustic experience while typing. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch features a resonant sound profile, which may provide a richer auditory experience but could potentially be more noticeable in shared spaces. The overall sound experience will also be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycap materials, so customization options can alter the characteristics further for both switches.

In terms of feel, the Hyacinth switch excels with its silky texture and subtle resistance. These attributes contribute to an exceptionally smooth typing experience, creating a delightful sensation that minimizes friction during key presses and releases. The gentle resistance of the switch ensures that typing feels light yet controlled, without the risk of excessive bottoming out. In contrast, details about the feel of the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switch are not provided, leaving some uncertainty; however, given its emphasis on smoothness through Ly stems, one can reasonably expect it to offer a high-quality tactile experience as well.

In summary, both the KTT Hyacinth and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switches cater to specific user preferences. The Hyacinth stands out with its neutral sound and silky, subtle feel, making it an excellent all-rounder for various typing scenarios. Meanwhile, the Tomcat (Heavy) promises a smoother typing experience with a resonant sound profile but lacks specific details on its tactile feedback. While selecting between the two, your personal preference might dictate whether you lean towards the more subdued characteristics of the Hyacinth or the unique auditory experience of the Tomcat. Overall, both switches should deliver quality results, but their distinct attributes cater to different typing experiences.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch ultimately hinges on your unique typing style and environment. If you prefer a switch that delivers a smooth, silky experience with a moderate bottom-out force, the KTT Hyacinth may be your best bet. Its design minimizes the harshness of bottoming out, making it ideal for those who value comfort and want a neutral sound profile that won’t disturb others in shared spaces. The Hyacinth's single-stage elongated spring ensures a consistent force curve, perfect for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, if you’re someone who enjoys a bit more resistance with an emphasis on a smooth feedback, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) could be more suited for you. Its higher bottom-out force provides a firmer feel that many typists favor for precision while typing. Furthermore, the resonant sound profile enhances the tactile experience, making it a delightful choice for those who love audible feedback in their keystrokes. So, assess your typing habits and the environments in which you’ll be using your keyboard, and you’ll find the perfect switch that meets your needs.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Hyacinth Linear

$4.03

$3.75 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more