Aflion Blue Sky vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Blue Sky and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. The Blue Sky, a linear switch, is renowned for its crystal-clear linear typing experience with a sparkling sound profile and smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2, also a linear switch, boasts a crisp top-out sound and deep 'clack' that provides a resonant and satisfying acoustic experience. While the Blue Sky is characterized as high-pitched and mild, the Hyacinth V2 is described as clacky, creamy, frictionless, and snappy. Both switches excel in their own unique ways, making them appealing choices for enthusiasts looking for specific auditory feedback and performance. 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
Single-stage 22mm Korean spring
Housing materials
Both the Aflion Blue Sky and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic that produces a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. While both switches share this common feature, the difference in their bottom housings will impact the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Blue Sky and the Hyacinth V2 utilize nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Nylon is softer compared to polycarbonate and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material will influence the overall typing experience for each switch, as the qualities of nylon will be felt and heard when pressing down on the keys.
While the top housings of the Aflion Blue Sky and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 are similar in their polycarbonate material and the resulting sound profile they produce, the bottom housings, made of nylon, offer a contrasting typing experience. The nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, with a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing. This combination of housing materials in each switch creates a unique tactile and auditory experience for users.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, it is evident that the Blue Sky has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Hyacinth V2's 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Blue Sky requires 60 grams while the Hyacinth V2 requires 52 grams. This means that the Blue Sky is slightly heavier in both aspects compared to the Hyacinth V2. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Hyacinth V2 may be the better choice due to its lower actuation and bottom out force. On the other hand, the Blue Sky may be preferred by those who like a bit more resistance and feedback while typing. Overall, both switches offer a medium to medium-light feel, allowing for comfortable typing sessions without causing fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Hyacinth V2 has a shorter travel distance compared to the Blue Sky. The difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall typing or gaming experience. The Blue Sky with a longer travel distance may provide a more tactile feel and a sense of depth when typing, while the Hyacinth V2 with a shorter travel distance may offer quicker response times, which could be preferred by gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Aflion Blue Sky has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Blue Sky for $4.07.
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
When it comes to sound, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch offers a high-pitched and neutral sound profile, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed that is suitable for a variety of users. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch is characterized by a clacky sound, delivering a sharp and snappy acoustic experience that is vibrant and percussive. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Blue Sky being more versatile and the Hyacinth V2 offering a distinctive auditory feedback.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle and refined feel that falls in a safe middle-ground zone. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch offers a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience, providing a smooth and buttery sensation with minimal resistance or friction. Both switches offer exceptional smoothness in their key travel, with the Blue Sky focusing on a more approachable feel and the Hyacinth V2 delivering a luxurious typing experience.
In conclusion, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch each bring unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. The Blue Sky offers a high-pitched and neutral sound with a mild and polished feel, making it a versatile option for a wide range of users. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2 provides a clacky sound with a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy feel, appealing to enthusiasts seeking a deep auditory feedback and a luxurious typing experience. Depending on individual preferences, both switches offer top-notch performance and satisfying typing experiences that are sure to enhance any keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch or the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a high-pitched sound profile and a mild, polished typing experience, then the Blue Sky switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clacky sound profile and a creamy, frictionless typing experience, then the Hyacinth V2 switch could be more to your liking. Assess your sound and feel preferences carefully to determine which switch aligns best with your typing needs and preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that best suits your personal style.