Kailh Box Navy vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, there are key factors to consider. The Box Navy switch is ideal for those who enjoy a heavy typing experience and crave the nostalgic sound and feel of vintage buckling keyboards. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2 is perfect for enthusiasts who prioritize a crisp and deep 'clack' sound in every keystroke. The Box Navy is characterized by its sharp and crunchy feel, while the Hyacinth V2 offers a creamy and silky smooth typing experience. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences and needs. 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
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
90g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Single-stage 22mm Korean spring
Housing materials
Both the Kailh Box Navy and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the keyboards. Despite these similarities in top housing material, the switches may have different characteristics based on their bottom housings.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both the Box Navy and the Hyacinth V2 utilize nylon, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. The bottom housing material heavily influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches, providing tactile feedback to the users during typing sessions. Despite the differences in top housings, the similar choice of nylon for the bottom housing ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
Overall, the contrasting characteristics of the housing materials used in the Kailh Box Navy and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 contribute to unique typing experiences for users. While both switches share the benefits of polycarbonate top housings in terms of sound profile and aesthetics, the nylon bottom housings offer distinct qualities that influence the overall typing experience. Whether it be the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper and fuller sound of nylon, both switches provide users with a variety of tactile feedback that cater to different preferences in keyboard typing.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch differ significantly. The Box Navy has a heavy actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 90 grams, providing a substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Hyacinth V2 has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions. Those who prefer a stronger push feel may lean towards the Box Navy, while those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Hyacinth V2. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, slightly longer than the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch with a distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for quick response times, such as gamers. The slight difference in travel distance may not be noticeable to most users, but those who prefer a slightly deeper key press may find the Box Navy to be more to their liking. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Kailh Box Navy comes in at $5.50 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
When it comes to sound, the Kailh Box Navy switch offers a resonant and crunchy experience, with a high-pitched sound profile reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch provides a distinctive deep 'clack' that is crisp, bright, and percussive, offering a unique acoustic experience that stands out for its depth. Both switches bring a different auditory feedback to the table, catering to different preferences in sound signature. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your personal preference for the sound you want your keyboard to produce.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Navy switch is known for its sharp, invigorating, and stiff tactile feedback, providing a strong and crisp tactile bump with every keypress. On the contrary, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 offers a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience, emphasizing smoothness and responsiveness in every stroke. While the Box Navy switch focuses on a tactile typing sensation, the Hyacinth V2 linear switch prioritizes a silky and polished feel. It's important to consider whether you prefer a tactile or a linear switch when making your decision.
Overall, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch each bring their unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. The Box Navy excels in providing a classic clicky sound profile and strong tactile feedback, making it a top choice for those seeking a vintage typing experience. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2 offers a deep 'clack' sound and a smooth, polished feel, catering to enthusiasts looking for a refined typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer exceptional performance, ensuring a satisfying typing experience no matter which one you choose. Ultimately, whether you opt for the Box Navy or the Hyacinth V2, you can expect a high-quality mechanical keyboard switch with unique characteristics that will enhance your overall typing experience.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, consider your preferences and priorities. If you value a heavy typing experience with a distinct sound signature and tactile feedback reminiscent of classic buckling keyboards, the Box Navy switches are the way to go. On the other hand, if you appreciate a smooth and buttery typing experience with a crisp, deep 'clack' sound, the Hyacinth V2 linear switches will be the perfect fit for you. Both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences in typing experience. Happy typing!
Mentioned in this article
