KTT Hyacinth vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro
An in-depth look at the KTT Hyacinth and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Hyacinth linear switch to the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, it becomes evident that each has its unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Hyacinth stands out for its 3.5mm travel distance, which aims to provide a balanced tactile feedback and auditory experience while ensuring user comfort by avoiding a hard bottoming-out feel. In contrast, the Violet Gold Pro offers a medium tactility with a light touch and neutral sound signature, appealing to those in search of a well-rounded typing experience. While the Hyacinth is categorized as ['Neutral', 'Silky', 'Subtle'], the Violet Gold Pro falls under ['Stepped', 'Neutral']. Both switches have their strengths and reasons why you might choose them, 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
N/A
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Both the KTT Hyacinth and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro feature polycarbonate top housing that provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in housing materials allows for a more resonant sound due to its relatively stiffer nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches designed to incorporate RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the keyboards. While both keyboards share this aspect in common, the difference in the bottom housing material between the two models may influence the overall typing experience and sound profile.
On the other hand, the Hyacinth and the Violet Gold Pro differ in terms of their bottom housing material, with the Hyacinth featuring a nylon bottom housing and the Violet Gold Pro also opting for a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile while typing, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, offering a unique typing experience for users of both keyboards. Despite the similarities in using nylon for the bottom housing, the overall sound profile and feel of the keyboards may vary based on this distinction.
In summary, while both the KTT Hyacinth and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro utilize polycarbonate top housing for a sharper and crisper sound profile, they diverge in their choice of nylon bottom housing. The differences in the bottom housing material can impact the typing experience and sound profile, with nylon creating a deeper and fuller sound compared to other plastics. Ultimately, the combination of these housing materials contributes to the overall sound and feel of each keyboard, offering users a unique typing experience based on the construction of their chosen model.
Weight
The actuation force of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch are both equal at 45 grams, making them ideal for users who prefer a lighter keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Hyacinth is heavier at 56 grams compared to the unknown force of the Violet Gold Pro. This means that the Hyacinth provides a slightly more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a firmer push feel. Both switches offer a smooth typing experience with their respective actuation forces, but the Hyacinth may be more suitable for users who prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force for added feedback while typing.
Travel distance
The KTT Hyacinth linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it shorter than the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Hyacinth's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Violet Gold Pro's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a more robust feel when typing or gaming. Both switches offer a unique feel and can cater to different preferences, so choosing between them ultimately depends on personal preference in terms of travel distance.
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 Dareu Violet Gold Pro has an MSRP of $7.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet Gold Pro for $4.76.
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
When it comes to sound, both the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they produce a moderate sound that is suitable for various settings, whether you are a beginner or an advanced user, and whether you are typing at home or in a work environment. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Hyacinth is praised for its silky and subtle typing experience, offering an exceptionally smooth feel with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro is described as having a stepped feel, giving users the sensation of two distinct stages during the keystroke. This makes the Violet Gold Pro switches ideal for those who prefer a more defined tactile response without it being overly pronounced.
In conclusion, while the sound profiles of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch are similar, they offer different typing experiences in terms of feel. The Hyacinth provides a smooth and subtle typing experience, while the Violet Gold Pro offers a more pronounced tactile feedback with a stepped feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the individual's preference for typing feel and tactile response.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a smooth and consistent typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force, the Hyacinth switch with its 3.5mm travel distance and single-stage elongated spring may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a balanced tactile switch with a fairly light touch and a neutral sound signature, the Violet Gold Pro switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and needs.
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