KTT Hyacinth vs. Durock T1

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Hyacinth and the Durock T1 offer two distinct options for different preferences. The Hyacinth stands out for its design choice of a 3.5mm travel distance, aiming to provide a balance between tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort. In contrast, the T1 is renowned for its super comfortable typing experience, with a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window. While the Hyacinth focuses on a single-stage elongated spring for a consistent force curve, the T1 offers a stepped and low-pitched tactile experience. Both have their own unique qualities to consider. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

KTT Hyacinth Linear

Durock T1 Tactile

$4.03

$3.75 per 10

$5.50

$4.90 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials for the KTT Hyacinth and the Durock T1, specifically the polycarbonate top housing, offer similar benefits. Both switches use polycarbonate in their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and visual accents when using either the Hyacinth or the T1.

However, the main difference lies in the material used for the bottom housing. The Hyacinth utilizes a nylon bottom housing, whereas the T1 also adopts nylon for its bottom housing. This choice of material affects the sound profile when typing on the switches. Both housings create a deeper and fuller sound due to nylon being a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. However, the impact is split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a stronger impact on the sound when releasing a key.

Overall, while the polycarbonate top housings of the Hyacinth and the T1 offer similar benefits, the difference in the bottom housing material affects the typing experience. The nylon bottom housing of both switches creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. As such, users can expect a similar level of tactile and auditory satisfaction when using either the Hyacinth or the T1. The focus shifts to personal preference, where individuals can weigh the impact of the bottom-out sound and the sound when releasing a key to determine which switch better suits their typing style.

Weight

Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch reveals some noticeable differences. The Hyacinth boasts a relatively lighter actuation force of 45 grams, which means less effort is required to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the T1 is unspecified, making it difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. Moving on to the bottom out force, the Hyacinth requires a force of 56 grams for full depression, providing a medium-light typing experience. Conversely, the T1 is noticeably heavier with a bottom out force of 67 grams, falling into the medium-heavy category. This disparity suggests that individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience and enjoy the feeling of a stronger push may gravitate towards the T1 switch. On the other hand, those who prioritize a lighter switch for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming may find the Hyacinth switch more suitable. Despite the unknown actuation force of the T1, it is safe to assume that both switches will yield comparable results in terms of actuation, as they are designed to trigger keystrokes effectively.

Travel distance

The KTT Hyacinth linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Durock T1 tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the T1 has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Hyacinth. The 4.0 mm travel distance of the T1 falls into the category of the most traditional travel distance, while the 3.5 mm travel distance of the Hyacinth is slightly shorter. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, making the Hyacinth a more suitable choice for them. However, for those who prefer a deeper and more hearty feeling when pressing down on a key, the longer travel distance of the T1 would be a better option. Both switches offer different levels of responsiveness and depth, catering to different preferences.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate sound level and 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 Durock T1 tactile switch is described as having a low-pitched sound. This means that it produces a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to switches with higher pitches. Both switches have a moderate actuation force requirement, making them suitable for various needs.

As for the feel, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch is described as providing a silky and subtle typing experience. These attributes contribute to an exceptionally smooth typing feel with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The switch's sound signature is also not resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch is described as offering a stepped, accented, and polished feel. The stepped feel means that it has two stages of tactility, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. The accented feel implies that it provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. Lastly, the polished feel indicates that the switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.

Based on the provided information, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch have distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Hyacinth offers a neutral sound profile and a silky, subtle typing experience, while the T1 provides a low-pitched sound and a stepped, accented, and polished feel. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. However, it is important to note that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, with either switch, you can expect a quality typing experience that meets your specific needs and preferences.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prioritize a lighter actuation force and a smooth typing experience, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch would be a great choice for you. With a medium-light bottom out force of 56 grams and a silky feel, these switches offer an exceptionally smooth typing experience while minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The Hyacinth's design choice of a 3.5mm travel distance also helps avoid the hard bottoming-out experience commonly found in switches with longer stems, providing a balance between tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort. However, if you prefer a more tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, the Durock T1 tactile switch would be a better fit. These switches offer a comfortable typing experience with a medium bump when pressing down, and the sound reminds us of rain falling on the window. Additionally, the T1 switches have a stepped feel, providing a mild tactile experience with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Ultimately, it's important to consider your personal preferences for actuation force, typing feel, and sound profile when choosing between the KTT Hyacinth and the Durock T1 switches.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Hyacinth Linear

$4.03

$3.75 per 10

Learn more

Durock T1 Tactile

$5.50

$4.90 per 10

Learn more