Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U both offer unique typing experiences. The Aqua King (V3) is known for its incredibly smooth and frictionless feel, akin to gliding on freshly resurfaced ice. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2U offers a fuller 3.9mm travel distance and a bouncy feel thanks to its 22mm spring. While the Aqua King (V3) provides a creamy and polished typing experience, the Hyacinth V2U offers a blend of traditional and modern features with a softer, bassier sound signature. When choosing between these switches, it ultimately comes down to whether you prefer a silky, frictionless typing experience or a more traditional feel with added bounce. 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
46g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
Nylon
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
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 Everglide Aqua King (V3) and Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. On the other hand, while the Aqua King (V3) has a polycarbonate bottom housing, the Hyacinth V2U features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of sound profile, the polycarbonate top housing of both the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U will result in similar sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sounds. However, the choice of bottom housing material sets them apart. The Aqua King (V3) with its polycarbonate bottom housing will have a slightly different sound profile compared to the Hyacinth V2U with its nylon bottom housing. The impact on the bottom-out sound and feel will be more influenced by the bottom housing material, while the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, the decision between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. If you prefer a switch with a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, the polycarbonate top housing of both switches will deliver similar results. However, if you enjoy a deeper and fuller sound profile, the nylon bottom housing of the Hyacinth V2U may be more appealing. Consider how each housing material affects the overall typing experience when making your decision between these two switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch, we can see that both switches fall within the medium range in terms of actuation force. The Aqua King (V3) has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Hyacinth V2U has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it slightly lighter in terms of bottom out force. Weight is an important consideration when choosing a switch, as a lighter actuation force allows for longer typing periods, ideal for work or gaming sessions. However, some users may prefer a heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing experience. In this case, both switches offer a balance between actuation force and bottom out force, providing a satisfying typing experience for users seeking a medium to medium-light switch option.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch, we see that the Aqua King has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Hyacinth has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.9 mm. Both switches fall within the realm of traditional travel distances, with the Aqua King being slightly longer than the Hyacinth. Gamers may prefer the Aqua King for its slightly longer travel distance, which can provide a more substantial feel when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, those looking for a faster response time may opt for the Hyacinth with its slightly shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key responsiveness and depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) has an MSRP of $7.18 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aqua King (V3) for $5.44.
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 Aqua King (V3) linear switch offers a subdued sound, producing a dampened and subtle sound signature when compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch yields a softer, bassier sound due to being crafted from nylon. The Hyacinth V2U also provides a neutral sound profile suitable for various purposes. Both switches offer a more muffled sound compared to other options on the market, providing a quieter typing experience ideal for shared workspaces or late-night typing sessions.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Aqua King (V3) linear switch is renowned for its frictionless and creamy typing experience, akin to gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. This sensation is further enhanced by the smooth and polished finish of the switch. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2U linear switch also boasts a polished and silky typing feel, offering reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches prioritize a smooth and refined typing experience, ensuring that each keystroke feels effortless and seamless.
In conclusion, both the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch excel in providing a premium typing experience with their unique qualities. While the Aqua King (V3) emphasizes a frictionless and creamy feel, the Hyacinth V2U focuses on a fuller travel distance and bounciness, coupled with a softer sound signature. Whether you prefer a more subdued sound or a bassier tone, both switches offer a smooth and polished typing feel that is sure to elevate your typing experience to new heights. Depending on your personal preferences and typing style, you can expect similar results in terms of typing comfort and satisfaction with either of these high-quality linear switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch or the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch, you should first think about your typing preferences. If you value a typing experience that feels frictionless and almost like ice skating, then the Aqua King (V3) with its creamy, frictionless feel may be the one for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a fuller travel distance, bounciness, and a softer, bassier sound, then the Hyacinth V2U may be the better choice. Additionally, consider the actuation force and sound profile that best suits your needs: the Aqua King (V3) has a subdued sound while the Hyacinth V2U has a more neutral sound profile. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what typing experience you value the most – whether it's the sheer smoothness of the Aqua King (V3) or the blend of old and new features in the Hyacinth V2U.
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