KTT Hyacinth vs. HMX Twilight
An in-depth look at the KTT Hyacinth and the HMX Twilight switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Hyacinth and the HMX Twilight linear switches present two appealing options with distinct characteristics tailored to different preferences. The KTT Hyacinth is renowned for its thoughtful design, featuring a 3.5mm travel distance that minimizes hard bottoming-out for a smoother typing experience. Its single-stage elongated spring enhances consistency in resistance, making it an excellent choice for users who value a neutral and silky feel, preserving comfort without sacrificing feedback. Conversely, the HMX Twilight switch boasts a slightly longer 3.85mm travel distance, which not only contributes to a quieter operation but also upholds the lively clackiness associated with HMX switches. This subtle difference can be appealing for those who appreciate nuanced auditory feedback while typing. Ultimately, each switch has its unique allure: the Hyacinth emphasizes comfort and a soft touch, while the Twilight leans into a bit more acoustic character. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that's right 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
3.85 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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Hyacinth with the HMX Twilight, the most noticeable difference lies in the composition of their top housings. The Hyacinth features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. In contrast, the Twilight sports a nylon top housing that yields a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder acoustic experience. This fundamental difference in material characteristics reveals how the two switches will perform differently in terms of sound output, with the Hyacinth emphasizing clarity and brightness, while the Twilight focuses on warmth and depth.
In terms of the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon, which contributes to a similar auditory experience. The nylon bottom housing in both the KTT Hyacinth and HMX Twilight creates a deeper, fuller sound with a duller quality, as it absorbs sound more than harder materials. This consistency ensures that regardless of the difference in top housing materials, the overall sound profile will still encapsulate a foundation of warmth and fullness when bottoming out. The shared nylon composition means that when users type on either switch, they will experience a level of acoustic similarity governed by the bottom material.
Ultimately, the combined effects of the top and bottom housing materials further delineate the distinct sound profile of each switch. The polycarbonate top housing of the Hyacinth influences the sound during key release, enhancing the clarity of the keystroke, while the nylon bottom dampens the sound upon bottoming out, lending a fuller tone. Conversely, with the Twilight, the nylon top housing produces a softer release sound that might feel less pronounced but pairs harmoniously with its nylon bottom housing to provide an enveloping acoustic experience. Thus, even though both switches share nylon in their bottom housings, the differing top materials lead to unique sound profiles, demonstrating how the combination of housing materials can shape user experience in tactile feedback and auditory sensations.
Weight
The KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch present differing characteristics in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Hyacinth requires an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 56 grams, while the Twilight is lighter with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This makes the Twilight the lighter switch, which may appeal to users seeking less resistance for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Hyacinth, with its slightly higher forces, provides a more substantial push feel, catering to those who prefer a heavier typing experience. Both switches exhibit a clear distinction in weight, enhancing the user experience depending on individual preference for typing feel and fatigue management.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, a clear distinction emerges. The Hyacinth features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Twilight has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.85 mm. This difference positions the Hyacinth as the shorter option, catering to those who prefer quicker key presses and enhanced responsiveness, which is particularly favored by gamers. In contrast, the Twilight’s longer travel distance may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing, offering a more robust depth to each keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will hinge on individual preferences regarding responsiveness versus key depth.
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 Twilight has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Twilight for $3.29.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the KTT Hyacinth and HMX Twilight linear switches, the Hyacinth presents a neutral sound, characterized by a moderate actuation force and balanced acoustic output. This makes it versatile enough for various environments, whether at home or in the workplace, catering well to both beginners and more experienced users. In contrast, the Twilight features a slightly quieter sound, partially attributed to its longer travel distance, which could lend itself to a somewhat subdued auditory experience while maintaining the inherent clacky characteristics typical of HMX switches. This distinct quality may favor users who prefer a quieter typing environment without sacrificing the switch's personality.
In terms of feel, the KTT Hyacinth provides a silky smooth typing experience, ensuring minimal resistance with each keystroke, which enhances overall typing comfort. The subtle resistance adds an additional layer of user-friendly feedback, making it suitable for shared spaces without generating a resonant sound. On the other hand, there is no specific information available regarding the feel of the Twilight switch, leaving that aspect unknown. Hence, those looking for a tactile sensation will find the Hyacinth particularly appealing for its smooth and mild typing experience.
In conclusion, while both the KTT Hyacinth and HMX Twilight linear switches exhibit qualities that cater to distinct user preferences, the Hyacinth stands out for its unique blend of sound and feel, delivering a versatile and comfortable typing experience. The Twilight, although quieter, lacks detailed information on its tactile quality, making it less certain for potential users. Ultimately, both switches offer a unique typing experience, and you can expect to find notable suitability in various environments, especially with the Hyacinth’s well-rounded design.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, consider how you plan to use your keyboard and your personal preferences. If you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a medium-light bottom out force of 56 grams, the Hyacinth is an excellent choice. Its thoughtful 3.5mm travel distance and silky feel ensure a comfortable typing experience while minimizing the occurrence of hard bottoming out, making it suitable for both work and leisure. Additionally, the neutral sound profile and subtle resistance cater to both beginners and experienced typists alike, particularly if you need a switch that performs well in shared spaces. On the other hand, if you favor a lighter touch with a bottom out force of 50 grams, the HMX Twilight might be the better option. Its extended 3.85mm travel distance offers a quieter acoustic experience, with the clacky characteristics distinctive to HMX switches still intact, making it great for a more expressive typing style. Ultimately, your choice should hinge on whether you prioritize a smoother experience with more resistance from the Hyacinth or a lighter, quieter feel from the Twilight.
Mentioned in this article
