KTT Hyacinth vs. Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear

Overview

The KTT Hyacinth and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear are both linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features and benefits. The Hyacinth stands out for its design choice of a 3.5mm travel distance, which avoids the common issue of a hard bottoming-out experience. This switch prioritizes an ideal balance between tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort. In contrast, the WS Aurora Clear switches are known for providing a smooth, high-pitched typing experience. With a transparent polycarbonate top housing and UHMWPE bottom housing, these switches allow for maximum RGB lighting customization. The POM stem is lightly lubed, ensuring minimal friction and a satisfyingly smooth keystroke. Both switches have their own distinctive qualities, making them suitable for different preferences and needs. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

KTT Hyacinth Linear

Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear Linear

$4.03

$3.75 per 10

$8.00 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The KTT Hyacinth and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear both feature polycarbonate top housings. This material choice contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially suitable for switches with RGB lighting, as it allows the illumination to shine through. So, in terms of their polycarbonate top housings, both the Hyacinth and the WS Aurora Clear offer similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics.

However, when it comes to the bottom housings, the KTT Hyacinth utilizes nylon while the WS Aurora Clear features UHWMPE (Ultra-High-Molecular-Weight Polyethylene). Nylon is a classic choice for switch housings, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its softness absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the UHWMPE used in the WS Aurora Clear's bottom housing is a newer material that produces a very bright sound signature. This creates resonant clacks when typing on switches with UHWMPE housings. Therefore, the bottom housing material significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches, offering distinct characteristics between the two.

It's worth noting that the impact of each housing material on the sound differs depending on whether it is the top or bottom housing. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing, such as nylon or UHWMPE, are more pronounced. Conversely, when releasing a key, the top housing, which in both switches is made of polycarbonate, plays a more significant role in the sound. So, while the top housing materials remain the same in the Hyacinth and WS Aurora Clear, the difference in their bottom housing materials causes them to have distinct sound attributes during both keystroke and key release.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, there are notable differences to consider. The Hyacinth has an actuation force of 45 grams, which is lighter than the Aurora Clear's 53 grams. This means that the Hyacinth requires a slightly lighter touch to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, the Hyacinth's bottom out force of 56 grams is lighter than the Aurora Clear's 63.5 grams. This means that the Hyacinth provides a slightly softer and less substantial typing experience when fully pressed.

For those who prefer a keyboard that is lighter and allows for longer typing sessions, the Hyacinth's lighter actuation and bottom out forces may be more desirable. It provides a smoother and more effortless typing experience, suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, for those who value a stronger and more substantial push feel, the Aurora Clear's heavier forces provide a more satisfying typing experience. The additional force required to trigger keystrokes and bottom out may result in a more tactile and deliberate typing experience.

It is important to note that while the Hyacinth and Aurora Clear have different actuation and bottom out forces, they both fall within the medium range. Therefore, regardless of the switch chosen, individuals can expect similar results in terms of overall typing experience. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the desired feel while typing.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, it is clear that they have slight differences. The Hyacinth has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the WS Aurora Clear has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. In terms of traditional standards, both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially for gamers seeking faster response times. Choosing the shorter option, like the Hyacinth, may provide a more responsive experience. However, for those who prefer a deeper and more substantial feel, the WS Aurora Clear with its slightly longer travel distance may be a better choice. Ultimately, personal preference will dictate whether a shorter or longer travel distance is preferred.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch has a neutral profile. This means that it produces a moderate sound that is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use the switch at home or work. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear linear switch has a high-pitched sound profile. This results in a sharp and crisp sound when the switch is pressed. If you prefer a brighter and more distinct sound, the WS Aurora Clear would be a better choice. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard itself and the choice of keycaps.

In terms of feel, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch offers a silky and subtle typing experience. These switches are exceptionally smooth, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The gentle resistance of the switch provides a light typing feel, and the sound signature is not resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear linear switch is described as buttery, mild, and polished. These switches provide a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The mild characteristics of the switch ensure that the sound and feel are approachable to most users. The switch also has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.

Overall, both the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the WS Aurora Clear linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Hyacinth provides a neutral sound profile and a silky, subtle typing experience, while the WS Aurora Clear has a high-pitched sound profile and offers a buttery, mild, and polished typing experience. Which switch is better for you will depend on your personal preferences. If you prefer a more moderate sound and a smooth typing experience, the Hyacinth may be the right choice. If you prefer a sharper sound and a fluid typing sensation, the WS Aurora Clear might be the better option. Consider the specific qualities that matter most to you and make your decision accordingly. However, it's worth noting that both switches aim to provide an overall comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, so you can expect similar results in terms of user comfort and tactile feedback regardless of which switch you choose.

Conclusion

In closing, if you are looking for a medium-light switch that offers a smooth typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch would be an excellent choice. Its design choices, such as the 3.5mm travel distance and the use of a single-stage elongated spring, provide a balanced tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a high-pitched sound profile, the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch would be perfect for you. With its transparent polycarbonate top housing and UHMWPE bottom housing, this switch allows for maximum RGB lighting customization. Furthermore, the lightly lubed POM stem ensures minimal friction and a satisfyingly smooth keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the Hyacinth and WS Aurora Clear will depend on your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so consider what factors are most important to you when making your decision.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Hyacinth Linear

$4.03

$3.75 per 10

Learn more

Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear Linear

$8.00 per 10

Learn more