Gateron Beer vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Beer tactile switch to the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, one can appreciate the unique characteristics that each brings to the table. The Beer switch, with its translucent green design inspired by a Tsingtao beer bottle, offers a lightweight and stepped tactility that provides a subtle feel during typing. It also produces a characteristic clacky sound, adding to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2 linear switch from Sillyworks stands out for its crisp top-out sound and deep 'clack', delivering a satisfying auditory feedback that appeals to keyboard enthusiasts. While the Beer switch is easy-to-press and stepped, the Hyacinth V2 is described as creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy. Each switch offers unique benefits and characteristics that cater to different preferences, making it important to delve deeper into their specifics to determine the best choice for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Single-stage 22mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Beer and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 both feature polycarbonate for their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches that utilize RGB lighting. However, while the top housing of both switches is the same material, the Gateron Beer's bottom housing also uses polycarbonate, while the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 opts for a nylon bottom housing. This results in a different sound profile, with the Gateron Beer offering a sharper sound and the Hyacinth V2 providing a deeper and fuller sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the clear housing of both switches indicates the use of polycarbonate, making them more likely to support RGB lighting. However, the choice of housing material for the bottom housing plays a crucial role in the overall sound experience of the switch. The Gateron Beer's polycarbonate bottom housing reinforces the sharp and clear sound profile, while the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. This difference in material highlights the impact that the housing material can have on the overall typing experience and sound quality of a switch.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Beer and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel. While both switches share the benefits of a polycarbonate top housing, the use of different materials for the bottom housing results in distinct sound experiences. Whether you prefer a sharper and clearer sound with the Gateron Beer or a deeper and fuller sound with the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, it is evident that the Beer is lighter in both aspects. The Beer has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, whereas the Hyacinth V2 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams. Both switches offer a relatively light typing experience compared to heavier options on the market. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the Beer, while individuals seeking a slightly more substantial feel may opt for the Hyacinth V2. Overall, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces between these switches cater to different preferences for typing and gaming experiences.
Travel distance
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for gamers looking for faster response times. The slight difference in distance may not be noticeable to most users, as both switches offer a relatively quick keypress activation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of tactile feedback and the feel of the switch during use.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Beer has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Beer for $4.59.
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, both the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch are described as having a 'clacky' sound profile. This means that they produce a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, resulting in a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory feedback. However, it is important to note that the actual sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is known for being easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. Additionally, it features a stepped tactility, providing a more subtle tactile feel compared to switches with a continuous curve of round tactility. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch is described as offering a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience. This indicates that the switch provides a smooth and buttery feel with minimal resistance, resulting in a seamless and responsive typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While they both produce a 'clacky' sound profile, the Beer switch provides a lighter and more subtle tactility, while the Hyacinth V2 offers a smooth, buttery typing experience with minimal resistance. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience for enthusiasts seeking unique qualities in their mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between Gateron Beer tactile switches and Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switches, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a more subtle tactile feel with a clacky sound signature, the Gateron Beer switches would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and value a smooth, creamy feel with a deep 'clack' sound, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 switches may be more to your liking. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so it's essential to consider what you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch when making your decision.
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