KTT Hyacinth vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the KTT Hyacinth and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the KTT Hyacinth and the Kailh Plum. The Hyacinth is a linear switch that stands out for its design choice of a 3.5mm travel distance. This decision was made to prioritize user comfort and create an ideal balance between tactile feedback, auditory experience, and comfort. On the other hand, the Plum is a tactile switch that feels quite hefty but doesn't feature a huge tactile bump, making it unique compared to other tactile switches. Both switches have a neutral sound profile, but the Plum is categorized as having a mild and stepped tactile experience, while the Hyacinth has a silky and subtle touch. While these general pointers give an overview, 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
56g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Hyacinth and the Kailh Plum both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize sound quality. In addition, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic element to these switches.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Hyacinth and the Plum utilize nylon. This classic switch housing material offers a different sound profile compared to polycarbonate. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This creates a duller and rounder sound that can be preferred by those who prioritize a more muffled typing experience.
Although the two switches share similarities in their housing materials, the distribution of these materials between the top and bottom housing plays a role in the overall typing experience. When pressing down on the switches, the qualities of the bottom housing, which in this case is nylon, will dominate the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing, which is made of polycarbonate, will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Understanding these differences can help individuals choose the switch that meets their specific preferences for both sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, some noticeable differences arise. The Hyacinth has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it relatively light, while the Plum's actuation force remains unknown. However, the bottom out force for the Hyacinth is 56 grams, indicating a medium-light keystroke experience. On the other hand, the Plum switch boasts a bottom out force of 70 grams, classified as medium-heavy. This divergence showcases that the Hyacinth provides a lighter typing sensation, allowing for longer periods of comfortable typing, suitable for extended work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Plum switch offers a heavier and more substantial keystroke, preferred by individuals who desire a stronger push feel. Although the exact actuation force of the Plum switch is not specified, its relatively heavier bottom out force implies that a similar effect can be achieved by using the Plum switch. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preferences for typing experience and duration.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, we can see that the Hyacinth has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Plum has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular, especially among gamers who value faster response times. Opting for the shorter travel distance of the Hyacinth would enhance responsiveness, which can be advantageous in competitive gaming. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt, and may prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the Plum for a more substantial feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preference, with the Hyacinth offering a slightly shorter travel distance and the Plum providing a slightly longer 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 Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25 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, both the KTT Hyacinth and the Kailh Plum switches offer a neutral sound profile. This means that they have a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound level. These switches are suitable for a variety of purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user and regardless of whether you are using them at home or in a work environment. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Hyacinth switch is described as silky and subtle. A silky switch provides an exceptionally smooth typing experience, reducing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. This enhances the overall smoothness of the typing feel. Additionally, the subtle resistance of the Hyacinth switch contributes to a light typing feel, and its sound signature is not resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces.
On the other hand, the Plum switch is described as mild and stepped. A mild mechanical keyboard switch offers a gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The Plum switch falls within a safe, middle-ground zone, making it approachable for most users. The stepped characteristic of the Plum switch means that it has two stages of tactility. Unlike hypertactile switches, where the entire keystroke is a big bump, stepped switches provide a milder tactile experience, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel.
In conclusion, both the KTT Hyacinth and Kailh Plum switches offer unique subjective qualities. The Hyacinth provides a silky and subtle typing experience with a neutral sound profile. It aims for an ideal balance between tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort. On the other hand, the Plum switch offers a mild typing experience and a neutral sound profile. It stands out with its weightiness despite not having a pronounced tactile bump. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and the desired typing experience. However, if you are looking for similar results in terms of sound and feel, both switches should satisfy your needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a medium-light switch that prioritizes an ideal balance between tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort, the KTT Hyacinth is a great choice. With its 3.5mm travel distance and single-stage elongated spring, it offers a consistent force curve and a smooth typing experience. The Hyacinth's sound profile is described as neutral, making it suitable for various settings and user levels.
On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a unique feel, the Kailh Plum tactile switch is worth considering. Despite its medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams, the Plum doesn't have an overwhelming tactile bump. It offers a neutral sound profile and feels quite hefty, providing a different typing experience compared to many other tactile switches.
Ultimately, both switches have a moderate actuation force requirement and sound profile. However, the Hyacinth is known for its silky and subtle feel, enhancing smoothness and reducing resistance. The Plum, on the other hand, offers a mild typing experience with a stepped feel, allowing you to notice some pre-travel and/or post-travel.
In the end, your choice between the KTT Hyacinth and the Kailh Plum will depend on your personal preferences and priorities regarding bottom out force, feel, and sound profile. Consider which qualities are most important to you in a switch and make an informed decision based on your typing style and preferences. Regardless of your choice, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience.
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