Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U offer unique experiences for different preferences. The Box Mute Jade is a clicky switch that provides a satisfying crunchy feel with a more subdued sound profile, perfect for those who enjoy tactile feedback without the loud noise. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2U is a linear switch with a fuller travel distance and a softer, bassier sound signature, appealing to those looking for a smooth and quiet typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to personal preference; 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
75g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
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
Kailh Box spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U feature polycarbonate top housings, which provide a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which results in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, despite these similarities in the top housing material, the two switches differ in their bottom housing material.
The Box Mute Jade utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2U also features a nylon bottom housing, which provides similar sound characteristics to the Box Mute Jade. The nylon bottom housing in both switches enhances the overall typing experience by producing a more pleasing sound profile.
While both switches share the same top housing material, the Box Mute Jade and the Hyacinth V2U offer a slightly different typing experience due to their distinct bottom housings. The qualities of the top and bottom housings are split between the two switches, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches are designed to provide a satisfying typing experience with unique sound profiles that cater to individual preferences.
Weight
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch has a heavier actuation force of 75 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch offers a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions. The difference in weight between the two switches highlights the varying preferences users may have when it comes to typing feel. Some may appreciate the heavier actuation force of the Box Mute Jade for a more tactile typing experience, while others may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Hyacinth V2U for increased comfort during extended periods of use. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, providing users with options to suit their specific needs.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter than the 3.9 mm travel distance of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch. The shorter travel distance of the Box Mute Jade clicky switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Hyacinth V2U linear switch may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer deeper key presses. Both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of travel distance, so the choice between them ultimately depends on personal preference.
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 Kailh Box Mute Jade comes in at $6.50 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
In terms of sound, the Kailh Box Mute Jade switch offers a crunchy sound profile, resembling the crisp and crunchy autumn leaves when pressed. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switch provides a softer, bassier sound due to its nylon construction, giving a more subdued and dampened sound when compared to most switches. Depending on personal preference and the keyboard setup, users may prefer the clicky crunch of the Box Mute Jade or the softer acoustics of the Hyacinth V2U switch.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box Mute Jade switch is described as accented, offering a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming but still noticeable. Additionally, it is stiff in terms of actuation force, requiring a higher amount of pressure to press the keys. The switch is also polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switch is also polished, ensuring a sleek typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys, giving a silky smooth feel. With a fuller travel distance and a 22mm spring, the Hyacinth V2U switch offers a bouncier typing experience compared to the Box Mute Jade.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Mute Jade switch is ideal for those who prefer a clicky switch with a quieter sound profile and a medium level of tactility, while the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switch appeals to users looking for a linear switch with a softer, bassier sound and a smooth typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different tastes, ensuring a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience for newcomers and enthusiasts alike.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are someone who enjoys a more distinct tactile feedback and a quieter clicky switch experience, then the Kailh Box Mute Jade would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a softer, smoother typing experience with a moderate actuation force and a fuller travel distance, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch would be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for key feel and sound, as well as the type of typing experience you are seeking. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so be sure to consider how you want your typing experience to be before making your choice.
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