KTT Hyacinth vs. Gazzew U4Tx RGB

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Hyacinth and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB each offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The KTT Hyacinth, a linear switch, stands out with its innovative design featuring a 3.5mm travel distance, which minimizes the harsh bottoming-out sensation commonly associated with longer stems. With a commitment to user comfort, it employs a single-stage elongated spring to create a consistent force curve, making it an excellent choice for those who lean towards a smoother, almost effortless keystroke. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB, a tactile switch, delivers a distinctive "thock" sound upon bottoming out, paired with a pronounced tactile bump that adds a luxurious sensory experience to each press. This blend of auditory satisfaction and tactile feedback makes the U4Tx RGB appealing for typists in search of a more dynamic and engaging typing experience. Ultimately, both switches have their advantages depending on personal preferences for feel and sound; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

KTT Hyacinth Linear

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$4.03

$3.75 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The KTT Hyacinth and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB both utilize unique materials in their housing design, significantly affecting their acoustic properties. The Hyacinth employs a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate, known for its rigidity, allows for clear sound resonance, which is further amplified when combined with RGB lighting due to its translucent nature. In contrast, the top housing of the Gazzew U4Tx RGB is crafted from a proprietary blend often dubbed "boba plastic," which is known for its softer characteristics. This softness contributes to a rich and deep sound profile, potentially offering a smoother auditory experience compared to the Hyacinth's brighter tones. Thus, while both switches are designed with sound in mind, their approaches diverge, resulting in different acoustic profiles.

Examining the bottom housings, both switches again diverge in material but align in intent. The KTT Hyacinth features nylon for its bottom housing, a classic choice that provides a fuller, rounder sound profile due to its relatively soft composition, which absorbs sound rather than amplifying it. Conversely, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB's bottom housing also utilizes the proprietary boba plastic, delivering a similar rich and deep sound profile as the Hyacinth’s nylon. This similarity highlights a common goal between the two keyboards: to maximize auditory satisfaction through softness and deep resonance. However, the tactile feel that comes from the different bottom housing materials may affect user perception and preference in tactile feedback.

Overall, the differences in top housing materials create distinctive sound profiles, while the similarities in their bottom housing materials ensure a comparable auditory experience in terms of depth and richness. Users considering these two switches will find that the KTT Hyacinth's sharper tones from the polycarbonate top may perform better with bright RGB lighting, while the Gazzew U4Tx RGB's overall soundscape leans towards a smoother and more subdued signature due to the softer boba plastic. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct experiences that can cater to different preferences, yet achieving similar results in terms of rich sound profiles thanks to the soft bottom housing materials.

Weight

When comparing the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, notable differences arise in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Hyacinth features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 56 grams, classifying it as medium-light, which can be an advantage for users who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions due to its lighter touch. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB has an unknown actuation force but boasts a bottom out force of 65 grams, indicating it has a medium-heavy feel. This heavier force provides a more substantial typing experience that might be preferred by those who enjoy a firmer push. As such, the Hyacinth is the lighter option while the Gazzew U4Tx RGB is the heavier choice. The differing specifications suggest that users may experience distinct tactile feedback and typing dynamics with each switch, depending on their preference for actuation resistance and overall keystroke feedback.

Travel distance

The KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch have slightly different travel distances, with the Hyacinth measuring 3.5 mm and the U4Tx RGB at 3.6 mm. This means that the Hyacinth offers a shorter travel distance compared to the U4Tx RGB, making it potentially more suitable for users who favor quicker response times, particularly gamers. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to users who appreciate a more pronounced key press and tactile feedback. While both switches are relatively similar, the Hyacinth’s marginally shorter travel distance provides a more responsive feel, whereas the U4Tx RGB’s slightly longer distance offers a more traditional depth. Overall, your choice should depend on your personal preference for key feel and gaming responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch provides a neutral auditory experience characterized by its moderate actuation force and sound profile. This makes it versatile for various environments, whether at home or in the office, and suitable for both beginners and advanced users alike. On the other hand, the sound qualities of the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch remain unspecified, making it difficult to directly compare its acoustic characteristics with those of the Hyacinth. However, the U4Tx is known to deliver a refined sound profile with "thock" when bottoming out, which may present a deeper auditory signature in comparison to the Hyacinth.

In terms of feel, the KTT Hyacinth switches stand out for their silky smoothness, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance during key presses and releases. This quality is complemented by a subtle resistance, ensuring a gentle yet enjoyable typing feel that is not overwhelming and lends itself well to shared working environments. In contrast, there’s no specific information available regarding the tactile feel of the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches. However, the tactile nature of this switch, coupled with its design focus on a luxurious experience, suggests it may offer a distinct, satisfying tactile bump that sets it apart from the linear Hyacinth.

Overall, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch excels in providing a neutral sound and silky smooth typing experience, making it a versatile and comfortable choice for everyday use. While the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch promises a refined auditory experience and luxurious tactile feedback, its exact characteristics in these areas have not been detailed. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences, and although the Hyacinth is designed with user comfort and consistency in mind, the U4Tx may appeal to those seeking a richer tactile sensation, but without explicit information, one would have to explore further to make a well-rounded decision.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a smooth, silky typing experience with a medium-light actuation force, the Hyacinth would be ideal for you, especially if you value comfort and want to avoid the hard bottoming-out feel. Its design assists in creating a more pleasant auditory experience, making it suitable for both shared spaces and longer typing sessions. On the other hand, if you're looking for a more textured experience with pronounced tactile feedback and a luxurious sound profile, you should opt for the Gazzew U4Tx RGB. With a slightly heavier actuation force and a rich “thock,” it’s perfect for those who enjoy a satisfying bump and want to engage more with their keyboard during typing or gaming. Therefore, your decision should reflect your specific needs—smoothness and comfort with the Hyacinth, or tactile richness and a deeper auditory experience with the U4Tx RGB.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Hyacinth Linear

$4.03

$3.75 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more