KTT Hyacinth vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the KTT Hyacinth and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Hyacinth and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° both offer unique features and benefits. The Hyacinth stands out for its 3.5mm travel distance, aiming to provide a balanced tactile feedback and auditory experience while maximizing user comfort. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° by Gateron is praised for its self-padding design and dual-rail structure, ensuring a smooth and stable typing experience with reduced noise. While the Hyacinth is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Silky', 'Subtle', the Zero Degree 0° falls into a different category altogether. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
56g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
Both the KTT Hyacinth and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in these housings provides a clear and resonant sound, making them ideal for users looking for a more defined typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switches. Overall, the polycarbonate top housings in both switches offer similar sound characteristics and aesthetic benefits.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the KTT Hyacinth and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° are made of nylon, a material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer than polycarbonate, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings can provide a more muffled typing experience compared to switches with polycarbonate bottom housings. While the top housings may have a more significant impact on the sound when a key is released, the bottom housings play a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches.
Overall, the housing materials of the KTT Hyacinth and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° contribute to their unique sound profiles and typing experiences. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and clear sound, the Hyacinth stands out with its nylon bottom housing for a deep and full sound. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° offers a different typing experience with its nylon bottom housing, providing a more muted sound compared to the Hyacinth. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it is evident that they have different characteristics. The Hyacinth has a medium-light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 56 grams. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° also has an actuation force of 45 grams, but its bottom out force is unknown. In terms of weight, the Hyacinth is lighter than the Zero Degree 0°, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. However, some users may prefer the heavier push feel provided by the Hyacinth's higher bottom out force for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, we can see that the Hyacinth has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Zero Degree 0° which has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This may seem like a small difference, but it can have an impact on the overall feel of the switch when typing or gaming. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Hyacinth with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Zero Degree 0°. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular in keyboards today, catering to different preferences in typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and how you like the feel of your keyboard.
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 Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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
The KTT Hyacinth linear switch offers a unique auditory experience with a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Its design choice of a 3.5mm travel distance aims to provide a comfortable typing experience while minimizing the hard bottoming-out common in longer stem switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch focuses on delivering a silent typing experience with its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure that absorbs sound and reduces noise. Both switches offer different sound profiles, with the Hyacinth providing a more neutral sound and the Zero Degree 0° emphasizing silent operation.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch is described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience that enhances overall smoothness and minimizes resistance during key presses. Additionally, it provides a subtle typing feel with gentle resistance, making it suitable for shared spaces. The feel of the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is not provided in the information available. Depending on personal preference, users may prefer the silky smooth feel of the Hyacinth or the unknown feel of the Zero Degree 0°.
In conclusion, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Hyacinth provides a neutral sound profile and a silky smooth typing experience, the Zero Degree 0° focuses on silent operation and stability. Depending on individual preferences and typing needs, users can choose between the two switches to achieve their desired typing experience. Overall, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different user preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT Hyacinth linear switch or the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences and priorities. If you value a medium-light bottom out force and a design focused on tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort, then the Hyacinth may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch that revolutionizes silent typing with its smoothness, stability, and noise reduction capabilities, then the Zero Degree 0° may be the better option. Consider your typing style, environment, and preferences to determine which switch aligns best with your needs.
Mentioned in this article
