KTT Hyacinth vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream

Overview

The KTT Hyacinth and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream are two standout linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features and benefits. The Hyacinth switch is designed with a 3.5mm travel distance to provide a comfortable typing experience without the harsh bottoming-out often associated with longer-stem switches. It also utilizes a single-stage elongated spring for a consistent force curve. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch stands out for its smooth and creamy feel, achieved through the innovative use of POK in both the stem and bottom housing. Additionally, it produces a high-pitched and clacky sound signature that sets it apart from other switches. While the Hyacinth is categorized as neutral, silky, and subtle, the Vanilla Ice Cream is described as buttery, creamy, high-pitched, marbly, and resonant. Both switches offer unique advantages depending on the user's preferences and typing style. 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

KTT Vanilla Ice Cream Linear

$4.03

$3.75 per 10

$5.78

$4.60 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Hyacinth and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream, it is evident that the two switches utilize different materials for their top housings. The Hyacinth features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, especially beneficial for RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream uses a proprietary blend top housing, resulting in a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. While both materials aim to enhance sound quality, the specific characteristics of polycarbonate and the special mixed materials used in the Vanilla Ice Cream's housing offer distinct sound experiences for users.

Moving on to the bottom housing of the switches, the Hyacinth employs a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature allows for sound absorption, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. In contrast, the Vanilla Ice Cream utilizes a POK bottom housing, which boasts exceptional durability and smoothness. The POK material offers wear resistance 14 times stronger than POM, making it a preferred choice for creating smooth, clacky, and durable switches. While both bottom housings contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switches, the unique qualities of nylon and POK offer users different typing experiences.

When considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall sound and feel of the switches, it becomes apparent that each material plays a crucial role in defining the typing experience. The characteristics of the bottom housing affect the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite their differences, both the Hyacinth and Vanilla Ice Cream switches aim to provide users with a satisfying typing experience through the careful selection of housing materials that enhance sound quality and durability. Ultimately, whether it be the stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Hyacinth or the proprietary blend top housing of the Vanilla Ice Cream, users can expect distinct sound signatures and unique typing experiences with each switch.

Weight

The KTT Hyacinth linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, which has an actuation force of 43 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Hyacinth requires 56 grams while the Vanilla Ice Cream needs 48 grams. This makes the Vanilla Ice Cream switch lighter overall in both actuation and bottom out forces compared to the Hyacinth switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Vanilla Ice Cream switch, which allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Hyacinth switch may be more suitable for users who prefer a bit more resistance and feedback while typing. Both options cater to different preferences, with the Hyacinth offering a slightly heavier typing experience and the Vanilla Ice Cream providing a lighter touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch are both 3.5 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches will provide similar results. It is worth noting that the shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm is beneficial for those who prefer a quicker response time, as less distance needs to be travelled to actuate the switch. Overall, the similarities in travel distance between the two switches make them equally suitable for users looking for a smooth linear switch option.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch offers a neutral profile that is versatile and suitable for various uses, whether at home or in the office. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch provides a high-pitched, marbly, and resonant sound that is sharp and crisp, giving it a unique and distinct auditory experience. The choice between these two switches will largely depend on personal preference regarding sound profiles and how they complement the overall typing experience.

Moving on to feel, the Hyacinth switch is characterized by a silky and subtle typing experience, offering smoothness and minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. In contrast, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch provides a buttery and creamy feel, delivering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that feels effortless and uniform. Both switches aim to enhance the typing feel and provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience for users, albeit with slightly different tactile sensations.

In conclusion, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch prioritizes a balance between tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort with its 3.5mm travel distance and single-stage elongated spring design. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch stands out with its use of POK material for a smooth and creamy feel, accompanied by a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. Each switch offers unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the individual user's preferences for sound profile, typing feel, and overall typing experience.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and are looking for a switch with a 3.5mm travel distance that prioritizes tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort, the Hyacinth may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and are drawn to a switch that offers a smooth and creamy feel thanks to the use of POK material in both the stem and bottom housing, along with a high-pitched and clacky sound signature, the Vanilla Ice Cream could be a better fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing experience and sound profile.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Hyacinth Linear

$4.03

$3.75 per 10

Learn more

KTT Vanilla Ice Cream Linear

$5.78

$4.60 per 10

Learn more