Aflion Panda vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Panda tactile switch to the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, it becomes evident that each offers unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Panda is renowned for its hyper-tactile sensation and thocky sound profile, appealing to those who prioritize a rich tactile experience with satisfying audio feedback. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2 stands out for its crisp top-out sound and deep 'clack', providing enthusiasts with a seamless blend of performance and sound quality. While the Panda is described as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', and 'Resonant', the Hyacinth V2 is characterized as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', 'Polished', 'Silky', and 'Snappy'. Both switches have their strengths, offering distinct qualities that suit various preferences. 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 15mm long spring
Spring
Single-stage 22mm Korean spring
Housing materials
Both the Aflion Panda and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switches. While both switches share this feature, the choice of housing material for the bottom differs between the two.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the Aflion Panda and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 are made of nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches, offering a unique typing experience compared to the polycarbonate top housings. Despite the difference in bottom housing material, both switches provide a balanced sound profile by combining the qualities of polycarbonate and nylon in their construction.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Aflion Panda and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 contributes to their distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. While the top housings made of polycarbonate create a clear and resonant sound with the option of RGB lighting, the nylon bottom housings provide a deeper and fuller sound with a softer feel. By combining these different materials in their design, both switches offer a unique typing experience that appeals to a variety of users looking for a specific sound and feel in their mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Aflion Panda tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Panda requires 60 grams, slightly heavier than the 52 grams needed for the Hyacinth V2. Overall, both switches fall into the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Hyacinth V2, while those who prefer a bit more resistance may opt for the Panda. Ultimately, both switches provide a medium level of force that should satisfy most users looking for a balance between typing comfort and a tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional distance. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Hyacinth V2 for quicker response times, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Panda with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer a different typing experience, but ultimately it will depend on individual preference for travel distance when selecting a switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Aflion Panda has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Panda for $3.56.
The HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 for $2.91.
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, the Aflion Panda offers a resonant experience, with a higher-pitched and clean sound profile that provides an immersive auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 is known for its clacky sound, producing a sharp and snappy sound with a crisp and percussive quality. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, ensuring a satisfying audio experience for users. Depending on the choice of keyboard and keycaps, the sound produced by each switch can be further customized to suit individual preferences.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Panda switch is described as accented and invigorating, offering a medium tactile experience with pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a reactive typing sensation. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 is known for its creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy feel, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience with minimal resistance and effortless key presses. Both switches excel in providing a tactile typing experience, with the Panda emphasizing tactility and the Hyacinth V2 focusing on smoothness and fluid key travel. Whether you prefer a more tactile feel with pronounced feedback or a smoother typing experience, both switches offer unique qualities to enhance your typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Aflion Panda and Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Panda excels in providing a hyper-tactile sensation with a thocky sound profile, while the Hyacinth V2 stands out for its crisp top-out sound and creamy, polished feel. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer a premium typing experience that caters to different user preferences. Whether you prioritize tactility and sonorous sound or smoothness and fluid key travel, both switches provide high-quality performance for enthusiasts seeking a top-tier typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, consider the following: if you prioritize a hyper-tactile sensation with a deep and thocky sound profile, along with a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, the Panda would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium-light bottom out force of 52 grams, along with a crisp top-out sound and a seamlessly blended sound and performance, the Hyacinth V2 would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize extreme tactility and sound feedback (Panda) or a smooth and effortless typing experience with a satisfying auditory feedback (Hyacinth V2). Consider your typing style and preferences carefully before making your choice.
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