KTT Hyacinth vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the KTT Hyacinth and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Hyacinth and the SP-Star Yanyu are two options worth considering. The Hyacinth offers a unique design choice with a 3.5mm travel distance, aiming to provide a comfortable typing experience without the common issue of hard bottoming-out. Its single-stage elongated spring ensures a consistent force curve, deviating from the mainstream use of dual-stage elongated springs. On the other hand, the Yanyu switches are known for their delicate typing experience, making them ideal for prolonged use. With a crisp sound profile, these switches offer a satisfying auditory experience. Both switches fall under the categories of 'Neutral' and 'Subtle', but the Yanyu offers additional qualities such as 'Mild', 'Thocky', 'Feathery', and 'Polished'. However, let's delve deeper into the specifics to help you determine the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
56g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The KTT Hyacinth and the SP-Star Yanyu have distinct differences in their housing materials. The Hyacinth utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of the polycarbonate material also makes it ideal for showcasing RGB lighting effects. In contrast, the Yanyu's top housing is composed of a unique blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE. This blend offers a pleasant sound profile that is not particularly sharp but leans towards the brighter side.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Hyacinth features a nylon material, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Yanyu utilizes a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend for its bottom housing. This blend creates a sound profile that is unique and pleasant, similar to the top housing. However, it is not described as particularly sharp but rather slightly brighter in tone.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall switch experience, it becomes apparent that each material contributes differently. The bottom housing has a more significant influence on the sound and feel when bottoming out a key, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, even though the KTT Hyacinth and SP-Star Yanyu have different housing materials for the top and bottom, the qualities of each material are split between these two parts, ultimately shaping the overall switch experience in their unique ways.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, it is clear that there are some notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Hyacinth has an actuation force of 45 grams, providing a medium-light touch required to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force for the Yanyu switch is unknown, making it difficult to directly compare. However, the bottom out force of the Hyacinth is 56 grams, while the Yanyu has a bottom out force of 43 grams, which is lighter.
Considering the importance of weight in switch selection, those who prefer a lighter keyboard for extended typing sessions or lengthy gaming sessions may lean towards the Yanyu switch due to its lower bottom out force. This lighter touch allows for increased comfort and reduced fatigue during prolonged use. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience and enjoy a stronger push feel might gravitate towards the Hyacinth switch, with its higher bottom out force of 56 grams. This heavier force provides a more satisfying tactile feedback and can enhance the typing experience for those who prefer a bit more resistance.
In conclusion, while the actuation force of the Yanyu switch remains unknown, comparing the bottom out forces reveals that the Hyacinth is slightly heavier. Therefore, the choice between the two switches ultimately depends on the desired typing experience and personal preferences, whether it be a lighter touch for prolonged use or a heavier, more substantial feel.
Travel distance
The KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch have different travel distances. The Hyacinth has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Yanyu has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Yanyu has the longer travel distance, making it more suitable for those who prefer a deeper feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Hyacinth has a shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers who prioritize faster response times. While both switches offer a different feel, it ultimately depends on personal preference whether one prefers a shorter and more responsive experience or a longer and more substantial one.
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 SP-Star Yanyu has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yanyu for $5.40.
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, both the KTT Hyacinth and the SP-Star Yanyu switches are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they produce a moderate sound when pressed, making them suitable for most intents and purposes. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps. Therefore, while the Hyacinth and Yanyu switches may have similar sound profiles, the overall sound experience may vary depending on the setup.
When it comes to feel, the Hyacinth switch is known for offering a silky and subtle typing experience. It provides an exceptionally smooth feel and minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Additionally, it has a gentle resistance that gives it a light typing feel without being too featherlight. The sound signature of the Hyacinth is not resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces.
On the other hand, the Yanyu switch offers a mild and feathery typing experience. It provides a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The Yanyu switch is exceptionally light to press, reducing finger fatigue and making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Similar to the Hyacinth, the Yanyu also has a subtle and polished feel, resulting in smooth key travel and reduced friction.
In conclusion, both the KTT Hyacinth and the SP-Star Yanyu switches offer unique subjective qualities. The Hyacinth focuses on providing a silky and subtle typing experience, with a neutral sound profile that is suitable for most situations. On the other hand, the Yanyu offers a mild and feathery feel, with a neutral sound profile as well as a thocky option for a deeper and more satisfying sound. Depending on personal preferences and typing requirements, either switch can deliver a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a moderate actuation force and a moderate sound profile, either the KTT Hyacinth or the SP-Star Yanyu would be suitable options. However, there are some key differences to consider when choosing between the two.
The Hyacinth is best known for its design choice of a 3.5mm travel distance, which helps to create a balanced tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort. It 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 feel, the Hyacinth offers a silky and subtle typing experience, enhancing smoothness and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys.
On the other hand, the Yanyu switches are perfect for those seeking a more delicate typing experience or those typing for long periods of time. Its material blend gives it a crisp sound profile, and it offers a mild and feathery typing feel, reducing finger fatigue and providing a comfortable experience during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Yanyu switch has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Hyacinth and the SP-Star Yanyu depends on your personal preference for travel distance, spring design, sound profile, and typing feel. Consider whether you prioritize a balanced tactile experience and a subtle typing feel (Hyacinth) or a delicate typing experience, reduced finger fatigue, and a polished finish (Yanyu). Both switches offer a neutral actuation force and can be used for a variety of purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, or if you plan to use them at home or work.
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