Bsun Akashi vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Akashi and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to note their unique characteristics. The Akashi stands out for its smooth UPE stem and hybrid housing combination, providing a distinct sound profile with a bright bottom-out and deep acoustic richness. This switch is known for its linear feel and categorized as 'clacky', 'creamy', 'frictionless', and 'snappy'. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2U offers a fuller travel distance and a traditional typing experience with its 3.9mm travel distance and 22mm spring. Crafted from nylon, these switches produce a softer, bassier sound, providing a more subdued typing experience. Categorized as 'neutral', 'polished', and 'silky', the V2U switches blend the old and the new. Both switches have their appeal, offering unique features for different 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
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage extended spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Akashi and Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U both have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Akashi's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Hyacinth V2U's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound. The translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, adding a visual element to the auditory experience. On the other hand, both switches feature nylon bottom housings that elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer nature.
While the top housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U offer different sound profiles, their nylon bottom housings provide a similar deep and full sound experience. The split between the top and bottom housings allows each material to influence different aspects of the switch's sound and feel. When typing on these switches, the bottom housing's impact can be felt in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in top housing materials, the consistency in nylon bottom housings ensures a certain level of similarity in the overall sound profile of both switches.
Overall, the choice between the Bsun Akashi and Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U will depend on personal preferences for sound profiles and aesthetics. The POM and polycarbonate top housings offer distinct sound characteristics, with POM providing a deeper and more muted sound compared to the sharper and crisper sound produced by polycarbonate. However, the shared nylon bottom housings of both switches create a commonality in the deeper and fuller sound experience they offer. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will come down to individual taste in sound and design preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch, it is evident that the Akashi is lighter in terms of actuation and bottom out force compared to the Hyacinth V2U. The Akashi has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, indicating a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Hyacinth V2U has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Akashi. For those who prefer a lighter typing feel for extended periods of use, the Akashi may be the better option. However, for users who enjoy a stronger push and more substantial typing experience, the Hyacinth V2U might be the preferred choice. Despite the differences in force, both switches provide a smooth linear typing experience, ensuring similar results in terms of performance and feel.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, which is shorter compared to the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch with a travel distance of 3.9 mm. The Akashi offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it favored by gamers for its responsiveness. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2U provides a bit more depth when pressing down on the key, which some users may prefer for a more substantial feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Akashi has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Akashi for $3.70.
The HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U 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 V2U 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 Akashi linear switch is well-known for its clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy sound with each press, creating a crisp and percussive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound, delivering a quieter and softer sound signature due to its nylon construction. When considering sound preferences, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the overall typing environment.
When it comes to the feel of these switches, the Akashi linear switch is praised for its creamy, frictionless, and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation with each keystroke. In contrast, the Hyacinth V2U linear switch also provides a polished and silky feel, focusing on a refined and smooth typing experience with minimized resistance during key presses. Both switches prioritize comfort and ease of typing, catering to individuals who enjoy a seamless and responsive typing feel.
In conclusion, the BSUN Akashi linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch each bring distinct characteristics to the table in terms of sound and feel. While the Akashi excels in providing a clacky sound and a creamy, frictionless typing experience, the Hyacinth V2U offers a more neutral sound and a polished, silky feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing feel, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience. Ultimately, trying out both switches on different boards with various keycap setups will provide a more comprehensive understanding of their performance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering which switch to choose between the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch, you should opt for the Akashi if you prefer a light bottom out force and are looking for a unique sound experience with bright, crisp bottom-outs and a hybrid housing that deepens the acoustic richness. The Akashi offers a creamy, frictionless, and polished typing feel, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, you should go for the Hyacinth V2U if you prefer a slightly higher bottom out force and a fuller travel distance for a more traditional typing experience. The V2U offers a subdued sound signature and a polished, silky typing feel, providing smooth key travel with reduced friction. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel.
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