KTT Hyacinth vs. Wuque Studio WS Red
An in-depth look at the KTT Hyacinth and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the KTT Hyacinth and the Wuque Studio WS Red. The Hyacinth stands out with its unique design choice of a 3.5mm travel distance, aiming to provide a comfortable typing experience without the discomfort of bottoming out. It also deviates from the norm by using a single-stage elongated spring, resulting in a more consistent force curve. On the other hand, the WS Red offers a bouncy and responsive typing experience with its 22mm double-stage spring. It provides a satisfying weight to each keystroke and maintains a familiar sound signature due to its classic material blend. While the Hyacinth is categorized as neutral, silky, and subtle, the WS Red's category is [not specified]. Each switch has its own strengths and appeals, but let's dive deeper beyond generalities, so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
56g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Hyacinth and the Wuque Studio WS Red differ in terms of their housing materials. The Hyacinth features a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the Hyacinth's polycarbonate top housing is translucent, making it ideal for those who plan to use RGB lighting. On the other hand, the WS Red utilizes a nylon top housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that produces a deeper and fuller sound. Its relatively softer plastic composition absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile.
In terms of their bottom housing, both the Hyacinth and the WS Red employ nylon. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, the bottom housing of both switches shares similar qualities in terms of sound and functionality.
When it comes to the overall impact on sound and feel while using the switches, the top and bottom housings play distinct roles. For the Hyacinth, the polycarbonate top housing influences the sound when letting go of a key, providing a sharper and crisper tone. Conversely, the WS Red's nylon top housing contributes to the sound profile during key release, producing a deeper and fuller tone. On the other hand, the qualities of the bottom housings impact the bottom-out sound and feel, with both the Hyacinth and the WS Red benefiting from the nylon material's ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. However, specific characteristics may vary depending on the switch model and its design.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, it is evident that they have some notable differences. The KTT Hyacinth has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the actuation force of the WS Red is unavailable. However, the Hyacinth has a bottom out force of 56 grams, whereas the WS Red has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it slightly heavier.
Considering weight, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Hyacinth switch, as its actuation and bottom out forces are relatively lighter compared to the WS Red. This lighter weight allows for longer typing sessions, making it suitable for work or extended gaming periods. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push may prefer the WS Red, as its heavier bottom out force provides a more substantial feel while typing. This can be particularly appealing to individuals who enjoy a more tactile and responsive keyboard.
While the specific actuation force of the WS Red is unavailable, it is important to note that a higher bottom out force typically implies a heavier actuation force as well. Therefore, although the exact actuation force of the WS Red is unknown, it can be inferred that it is generally heavier than that of the Hyacinth. So, if someone desires a keyboard with a comparable actuation force to the Hyacinth, they may achieve similar results by choosing the WS Red.
In summary, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch offers a medium-light actuation force and a medium-light bottom out force, while the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch provides a medium-heavy bottom out force. The weight of the switch is an important factor to consider, as it can greatly impact one's typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preferences regarding typing feel and the desired level of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Hyacinth linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches have shorter travel distances than the traditional 4.0 mm, indicating that they offer a more modern typing experience. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the shorter travel distance as it allows for faster response times. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing may opt for the WS Red switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness.
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 Wuque Studio WS Red comes in at $3.50 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
In terms of sound, the KTT Hyacinth switch offers a neutral profile, meaning it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound. This makes it suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. The sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Wuque Studio WS Red switch is unknown, so it's difficult to compare it in this aspect.
Moving on to the feel, the KTT Hyacinth switch is described as silky. This means it offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience, enhancing the overall smoothness while minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Additionally, it is also described as having a subtle resistance, providing a light typing feel without being too feather-light. The sound signature of the Hyacinth is said to be non-resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces. In contrast, there is no information available about the feel of the Wuque Studio WS Red switch.
Considering the available information, the KTT Hyacinth and Wuque Studio WS Red switches have some distinct characteristics. The Hyacinth switch stands out for its design choice of a shorter travel distance to avoid a hard bottoming-out experience, aiming for an ideal balance between tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort. It utilizes a single-stage elongated spring, which offers a consistent force curve. On the other hand, the WS Red switch features a 22mm double-stage spring, providing a bouncy and responsive typing experience with heavier actuation force.
While the sound profile and feel of the WS Red switch are unknown, based on the available information, it is clear that the KTT Hyacinth switch offers a neutral sound with a smooth and subtle typing feel. If you are looking for a switch with similar qualities, such as moderate sound and smooth typing experience, the Hyacinth switch would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a bouncier and more responsive typing experience with a heavier actuation force, the WS Red switch may be worth considering, although more information is needed to make a thorough comparison. Ultimately, your choice should also be influenced by other factors like personal preference, keyboard layout, and keycap compatibility.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and value a design that aims to provide an ideal balance between tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch is a great choice for you. Its use of a 3.5mm travel distance and a single-stage elongated spring result in a consistent force curve and a smooth typing experience. The Hyacinth is also described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a bouncy and responsive typing experience, the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch is the way to go. With its 22mm double-stage spring, it offers a satisfying and substantial typing feel. However, the sound profile of the WS Red is not specified.
In terms of feel, the Hyacinth is described as silky and subtle. It provides an exceptionally smooth typing experience and minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The WS Red's feel is not described.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Hyacinth and the Wuque Studio WS Red will come down to your personal preferences. Consider factors such as bottom out force, typing experience, sound profile, and the specific features that stand out to you. By weighing these aspects, you can confidently select the mechanical keyboard switch that best suits your needs.