Huano Acacia vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U

Overview

When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Huano Acacia and HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U stand out, particularly within the linear switch category. The Huano Acacia is celebrated for its medium-light weight, rich factory lubrication, and minimal stem wobble, all contributing to a smooth and enjoyable typing experience right out of the box. Its user-friendly nature makes it an excellent choice for those who prioritize ease and comfort in their everyday typing tasks. In contrast, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U offers a more unique experience with its fuller travel distance of 3.9mm, harkening back to more traditional typing styles. Enhanced by a 22mm spring, these switches introduce a delightful bounce, and with their nylon construction, they produce a softer, bassier sound signature that appeals to enthusiasts seeking both nostalgia and modern touch. While the Acacia provides reliability and immediate satisfaction, the Hyacinth V2U offers a blend of the old and the new for those looking to elevate their typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.

By the numbers

Huano Acacia Linear

HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U Linear

$3.39 per 10

$3.50

$2.91 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Acacia and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switches, one finds an interesting parallel between the polycarbonate top housings of both products. Both switches utilize polycarbonate, a material known for its rigidity and translucency, which greatly contributes to producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This shared characteristic results in a clear and resonant acoustic quality that enhances typing experience, particularly for users who favor switches equipped for RGB lighting. The aesthetic appeal of the transparent polycarbonate also ensures that both switches visually complement illuminated keyboards, thereby unifying sound and visual appeal in both models.

In contrast, the bottom housing of both switches introduces distinctive differences in sound profile and tactile feedback. The Acacia uses nylon for its bottom housing, which is recognized for its softer qualities, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This material absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience upon key activation. The HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U also features a nylon bottom housing, hence it shares similar acoustic characteristics, offering a comforting, muted sound. This mutual choice in materials for the bottom casing ensures that both switches provide a rich, subdued sound when bottomed out, appealing to users who appreciate a rounded auditory feedback upon typing.

Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housings in both the Huano Acacia and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U produces a cohesive typing experience. While the polycarbonate top contributes to the elevating clarity and brightness of the sound upon release, the nylon bottom fosters a deep and rounded quality at the point of actuation. This harmonious blend allows for a well-balanced acoustic performance that stands true across both models, offering users a similar feel and sound output, making either choice favorable depending on individual aesthetic and performance preferences.

Weight

The Huano Acacia linear switch and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch offer interesting similarities and differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally suitable for users who prefer a lighter feel during typing or gaming, allowing for extended use without fatigue. However, the bottom out forces differ slightly; the Acacia has a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the Hyacinth V2U comes in at 52 grams. This means that while both switches provide a similar level of resistance at the actuation point, the Acacia offers a slightly heavier feel when bottoming out, resulting in a more substantial typing experience. Therefore, those who favor a heavier switch might lean towards the Huano Acacia, while users seeking a lighter touch throughout their keystrokes might prefer the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U. Overall, both switches offer a medium-light experience with comparable actuation forces, but the slight difference in bottom out forces could influence user preference based on desired feedback and pressure.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Acacia linear switch and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch, it is clear that they differ significantly. The Huano Acacia boasts a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U extends to 3.9 mm. This makes the Acacia the shorter option and the Hyacinth the longer one. As a result, users who favor quicker responsiveness and shorter actuation may find the Acacia more appealing; however, those who prefer a more pronounced keystroke may lean towards the Hyacinth for its deeper travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on individual preferences regarding key feel and response times.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Huano Acacia linear switch stands out for its uniquely appealing auditory profile, though specific descriptors are not provided here. In contrast, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U is characterized by a neutral and subdued sound signature. This means that while the Acacia may offer a distinct sound, the V2Us present a more moderated experience suitable for any environment, whether for office use or gaming. The Hyacinth’s softer, bassier tones add an interesting layer, and combined with the right keyboard and keycaps, each switch can provide a pleasant auditory engagement.

In the realm of feel, the Acacia linear switch is noted for its medium-light weight, which facilitates an excellent typing experience straight from the factory. Meanwhile, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U excels with its polished and silky typing sensation, derived from meticulous craftsmanship and a high-quality nylon construction. This combination reduces friction and enhances typing smoothness, providing users with a refined experience that can be particularly satisfying during extended typing sessions. Although the Acacia's specific feel qualities aren't described here, the Hyacinth V2U’s superior smoothness and polished nature are likely to offer a more indulgent tactile experience than typical linear switches.

In summary, while the Huano Acacia linear switch is celebrated for its enjoyable typing feel straight out of the box, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U offers a sound experience that is both neutral and subdued. The smooth, silky feel of the HMX version is a step up thanks to its thoughtful design and construction. Each switch caters to different preferences, yet both can provide satisfying outcomes depending on what specifically a user values—whether that be sound, feel, or a combination of both. Selecting between these two switches ultimately depends on individual user preferences, but either would likely yield gratifying results.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Huano Acacia linear switch and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and the experience you seek. If you prefer a more traditional typing experience with a full travel distance and a bouncier feel, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U would be an excellent choice. Its softer, bassier sound signature and polished, silky feel provide a refined and enjoyable feedback, making it great for typing enthusiasts who appreciate the tactile nuances reminiscent of older switches. On the other hand, if you want a smooth, straightforward experience right out of the box with generous factory lubrication, the Acacia switch is a solid option. Its medium-light weight and slight, subdued sound profile make it versatile for both casual and professional settings, offering a delightful typing experience with minimal stem wobble. Ultimately, consider what aspects matter most to you—whether it’s sound, feel, or overall performance—as you make your decision between these two enjoyable linear switches.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Acacia Linear

$3.39 per 10

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HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U Linear

$3.50

$2.91 per 10

Learn more