Gateron Beer vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, finding the right balance between tactile feedback and smooth keystrokes is crucial. Two popular options that offer unique characteristics are the Gateron Beer and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switches. The Gateron Beer switch is lauded for its translucent green design, lightweight feel, and stepped tactility, providing a refreshing typing experience with a characteristic clacky sound. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switch stands out for its fuller 3.9mm travel distance, bouncy 22mm spring, and soft, bassier sound signature, offering a polished and subdued typing experience. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, but ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual preferences and typing style. 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
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
3.90 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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Beer and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U are quite similar as they both use polycarbonate for their top housing. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for incorporating RGB lighting, adding to the overall aesthetic appeal of the switches. However, where they differ is in their bottom housing material. The Beer utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing as well, while the Hyacinth V2U opts for nylon. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile for the Hyacinth V2U, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.
The choice of housing material in a switch can greatly impact the typing experience. With the bottom housing being responsible for the bottom-out sound and feel, switches utilizing nylon like the Hyacinth V2U will provide a more cushioned and subdued typing experience. On the other hand, switches like the Beer with polycarbonate bottom housing will deliver a crisper and more resonant typing experience. When it comes to the release sound of a key, the top housing material plays a significant role. With both the Beer and the Hyacinth V2U featuring polycarbonate top housing, users can expect a similar sharp and high-pitched sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Beer and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U offer unique typing experiences due to their choice of housing materials. While they share the use of polycarbonate for the top housing, resulting in a sharp and clear sound profile, the differentiation lies in the bottom housing material. The Beer's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a crisper typing experience, whereas the Hyacinth V2U's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound. Ultimately, the housing materials of a switch can greatly impact the overall feel and sound, catering to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch, it is evident that the Beer is lighter in both aspects with an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2U has slightly higher forces with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams. The Beer offers a lighter typing experience, ideal for those who prefer less resistance when typing for extended periods. In contrast, the Hyacinth V2U provides a slightly heavier push feel, offering a more substantial typing experience for users who enjoy a bit more resistance. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches play a significant role in determining the typing experience and user preference, with both switches catering to different preferences in terms of force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm. In this case, the Hyacinth V2U has a longer travel distance compared to the Beer. The difference may not be significant, but it can impact how the switch feels when typing or gaming. For those who prefer a switch with a shorter travel distance for quicker response times, the Beer may be the better option. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a bit more depth to the press, the Hyacinth V2U could be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific feel you are looking for in a switch.
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 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 Gateron Beer tactile switch offers a distinctive clacky sound signature, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This sound can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch provides a softer, bassier sound due to its construction from nylon material. The Hyacinth V2U is noted for its more neutral and subdued sound profile, which may appeal to those looking for a quieter typing experience. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is favored for its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force can enhance typing comfort and reduce finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Additionally, the stepped tactility of the Beer switch provides a more subtle tactile feedback compared to other switches. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch boasts a polished and silky smooth typing experience, thanks to its refined finish and enhanced key travel. This smoothness can contribute to a more effortless typing feel and reduced friction during key presses.
Taking into consideration the information provided, it's clear that the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Beer switch leans towards a clacky sound and easy-to-press feel with stepped tactility, the Hyacinth V2U switch provides a softer, bassier sound and a polished, silky smooth typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing feel, users can choose between these switches to customize their mechanical keyboard setup accordingly.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch, consider the following guidelines: If you prefer a light and easier-to-press switch with a unique clacky sound signature, the Beer switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you value a slightly heavier bottom out force and a fuller travel distance, along with a silky smooth typing experience and a more subdued sound profile, the Hyacinth V2U switch would be a great choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and bottom out force.
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