KTT Hyacinth vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the KTT Hyacinth and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Hyacinth and the Gazzew U4 are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features and experiences to enhance your typing pleasure. The Hyacinth distinguishes itself by its design choice of a 3.5mm travel distance, which aims to provide a comfortable typing experience without the common issue of hard bottoming-out. This switch also deviates from the mainstream trend by using a single-stage elongated spring, resulting in a more consistent force curve. Categorized as 'Neutral', 'Silky', and 'Subtle', the Hyacinth promises a balanced mix of tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 switches offer an exhilarating tactile bump and a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation, providing a unique and satisfying typing experience. With a sound profile that is whisper quiet, the U4s are ideal for those who prefer a muted, low-pitched, and sharp experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on which switch is the best fit for your preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
56g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The KTT Hyacinth and the Gazzew U4 have different materials used in their top housings. The Hyacinth features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Its stiffness contributes to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for use with RGB lighting. In contrast, the U4 utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, also known as "boba plastic." This unique plastic blend delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. While the Hyacinth focuses on creating a brighter and more precise sound, the U4 aims for a warmer and more resonant tone.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Hyacinth features a nylon material. Typing on switches with nylon housings produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder tone. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 employs its proprietary "boba plastic" blend for the bottom housing as well. This soft plastic brings richness and depth to the sound profile, similar to its effect in the top housing. Both switches prioritize delivering a pleasant and satisfying auditory experience, although the Hyacinth's nylon bottom housing creates a different sound characteristic compared to the U4's Gazzew blend bottom housing.
When it comes to the overall sound and feel of the switches, the impact of the top and bottom housings becomes apparent. Pressing down on the switch allows you to feel and hear the qualities of the bottom housing. The bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the key press. Conversely, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced when you release a key. Therefore, while the materials used in the top and bottom housings of the Hyacinth and U4 may differ, they work in harmony to create a well-rounded sensory experience for the user.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. In terms of weight, the Hyacinth is slightly lighter than the U4. The Hyacinth has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 56 grams, which falls under the category of medium-light. On the other hand, the U4 has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, which can be classified as medium.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Hyacinth would be a suitable choice as it requires a lighter force to trigger keystrokes. This can be beneficial for individuals who type for longer periods or engage in extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, the U4 offers a slightly heavier push feel due to its higher bottom out force. This can result in a more substantial typing experience, appealing to those who prefer a stronger tactile response.
Comparing the two switches, it is clear that both offer a medium level of actuation and bottom out forces. Although the weights may differ slightly, the overall experience would be quite similar for individuals using either switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two would come down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch have slightly different travel distances. The Hyacinth has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the U4 has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the traditional distance being 4.0 mm, there is a slight difference between the two. For gamers or those seeking faster response times, the Hyacinth with its shorter travel distance may be the preferred option. On the other hand, for those who enjoy a deeper and more substantial feel when typing, the U4 with its slightly longer travel distance may be more appealing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific requirements of the user.
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 Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50 per 10 switches.
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
Based on the provided information, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch is known for its commitment to creating an ideal balance between tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort. It stands out with its design choice of a 3.5mm travel distance, which helps to avoid a hard bottoming-out experience commonly associated with switches with longer stems. The Hyacinth also 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. In terms of sound, the Hyacinth is described as neutral, which means it has a moderate sound profile suitable for most purposes. As for feel, the Hyacinth is described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience, with a subtle resistance that is suitable for shared spaces.
On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is known for its sharp and exhilarating tactile bump when typing on them. The U4 switches provide a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation, adding a touch of luxury to the typing experience. The sound profile of the U4 switches is described as muted and low-pitched, resulting in a quieter and bass-heavy tone compared to higher-pitched switches. This makes the U4 switches whisper quiet and minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Additionally, the U4 switches have a sharp tactile feedback intensity, ensuring that each keypress is distinctly felt.
In conclusion, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Hyacinth provides a neutral sound profile and a silky smooth typing experience with a subtle resistance suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the U4 offers a muted, low-pitched sound profile that is whisper quiet, along with a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the individual's preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a medium-light bottom out force, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch could be a great choice for you. The Hyacinth stands out with its 3.5mm travel distance which avoids a hard bottoming-out experience. It offers an ideal balance between tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort. With a single-stage elongated spring, the force curve remains consistent. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch, the Gazzew U4 is worth considering. It has a medium bottom out force and offers a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump with an unexpectedly plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation. The U4s also have a whisper-quiet sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the Hyacinth and the U4 depends on whether you prefer a linear switch with a smooth and subtle typing feel, or a tactile switch with a sharp and intense tactile bump. Both switches have their unique features that cater to different preferences.
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