Durock Anubis vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U
An in-depth look at the Durock Anubis and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Durock Anubis, a tactile switch, and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U, a linear switch. The Anubis is known for its deep and resonant sound profile, offering a satisfying tactile feedback with a pronounced bump that intensifies each keystroke. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2U boasts a fuller travel distance of 3.9mm and a bouncy feel enhanced by a 22mm spring. The nylon construction of the V2U results in a softer, bassier sound signature, combining traditional typing experiences with modern features. While the Anubis provides a sharp tactility, the V2U offers a balance between old and new. 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
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Durock Anubis and Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U both feature a nylon top housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The nylon material's softer nature absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Hyacinth V2U utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances clarity and resonance in the sound produced. Aesthetically, the polycarbonate top housing allows for translucency, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting.
While both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, the Anubis and Hyacinth V2U offer unique qualities in their top housing materials. The Anubis features a nylon bottom housing that absorbs more sound due to its softer nature, resulting in a rounder sound profile. Similarly, the Hyacinth V2U's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper sound experience with a fuller sound profile. Despite the differences in their top housings, the switches' shared bottom housing material ensures a consistent typing experience with a focus on sound absorption and depth.
The impact of the housing material can be felt on both the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the overall sound profile, while the top housing influences the sound produced when releasing a key. While the Anubis and Hyacinth V2U offer distinct sound profiles based on their housing materials, the combination of nylon and polycarbonate in their respective top and bottom housings ensures a well-rounded and balanced typing experience for users seeking different auditory experiences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch, it is evident that the Anubis has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the Hyacinth V2U's 52 grams. However, the actuation force of the Hyacinth V2U is lighter at 45 grams, while the Anubis has an actuation force of None grams. This means that the Hyacinth V2U may provide a lighter typing experience, making it suitable for prolonged typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Anubis may offer a more substantial typing feel due to its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on whether the user prefers a lighter actuation force for quicker keystrokes or a heavier bottom out force for a more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Anubis tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm. In this case, the Hyacinth V2U has the shorter travel distance compared to the Anubis. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Anubis being slightly longer. Gamers looking for a faster response time may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Hyacinth V2U, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may gravitate towards the Anubis. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Durock Anubis comes in at $8.00 per 10 switches.
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 Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch are described as having a neutral profile, making them suitable for a variety of purposes and environments. The Anubis offers a deep and resonant sound profile, perfect for those who enjoy a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback, while the Hyacinth V2U produces a softer, bassier sound signature, thanks to its nylon construction. Keep in mind that the overall sound of the switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to feel, the Anubis is considered to have an accented and polished feel, providing a medium level of tactility without being overwhelming or too subtle, along with a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2U also offers a polished feel with an added silky smoothness, enhancing the overall typing experience and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Both switches prioritize comfort and smoothness in typing, ensuring a pleasant user experience.
In conclusion, while the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch have their own unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, they both aim to provide a satisfying and smooth typing experience for users. Whether you prefer a sharper tactility with a deep sound profile or a softer sound with a fuller travel distance, both switches are designed to cater to different preferences and typing styles. Choosing between the two ultimately depends on personal preference and what qualities you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a pronounced tactile bump and deep sound profile, the Durock Anubis tactile switch with a bottom out force of 65 grams would be a great choice for you. It offers a satisfying and assertive typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother linear switch with a medium-light bottom out force of 52 grams, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch would be more suitable. With a fuller travel distance and a softer sound signature, the Hyacinth V2U provides a blend of traditional typing experience with modern features. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on your preference for tactility and sound profile.
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