Kailh Box White V2 vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the choice between a clicky switch like the Kailh Box White V2 and a linear switch such as the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U often reflects personal preference and intended use. The Kailh Box White V2 is celebrated for its crisp tactile feedback and satisfying audible click, making it a favorite among typists and gamers who appreciate an engaging typing experience that provides clear, auditory confirmation of each keypress. In contrast, the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U offers a more subdued approach, featuring a fuller travel distance of 3.9mm that appeals to those who crave a more traditional typing feel. Enhanced by a bouncier 22mm spring and crafted from nylon, these linear switches deliver a softer, bassier sound, perfect for quieter environments or extended typing sessions. Both switches provide distinct benefits: the Kailh Box White V2 excites with its clicky feedback while the Hyacinth V2U caters to those looking for a smoother, more polished experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When examining the Kailh Box White V2 and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U, it is noteworthy that both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. This shared material contributes to a similar auditory profile characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Polycarbonate is recognized for its stiffness, which enhances sound clarity and resonance, making it an ideal choice for users who value a clean and vibrant sound when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows both switches to effectively showcase RGB lighting, creating an aesthetically pleasing experience for users who appreciate customizable lighting effects with their keyboards. This resemblance in top housing materials ensures that users of both switches can anticipate comparable acoustic performance, with that signature crispness defining both typing experiences.
In contrast, the bottom housings of these two switches diverge, as the Kailh Box White V2 employs a nylon bottom housing while the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U, like its counterpart, also relies on nylon for its construction. The properties of nylon contribute to a deeper, fuller sound profile when typing, thanks to its softer nature, which absorbs sound more effectively than its stiffer counterparts. This means that while the top segment of each switch produces a high-pitched resonance, the bottom housing dampens the noise to create a rounded and rich auditory experience. Consequently, the combination of a polycarbonate top and nylon bottom in both switches allows for an effective blend of sound profiles, marrying the sharpness of the top with the depth of the bottom.
As a result of these material choices, users can expect a harmonious typing experience from both the Kailh Box White V2 and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U. Each switch's top housing introduces a lively and crisp tonal quality, while the nylon bottoms work to enhance that experience by introducing a softer and more muted sound at bottoming out. Although the exact feel might differ slightly due to the specific switch design and tuning, the fundamental audio characteristics created by the combination of polycarbonate and nylon allow for a delightful experience. This synergy ensures that regardless of the switch, users will enjoy a rich, balanced sound profile that caters to both the auditory and tactile preferences of typists.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch, there are some notable similarities and differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches feature an actuation force of 45 grams, indicating that they require the same amount of pressure to trigger a keystroke. This similarity suggests that users will experience a comparable response when typing or gaming, making either option suitable for long sessions without undue fatigue. However, the bottom out forces differ slightly, with the Box White V2 at 50 grams and the Hyacinth V2U at 52 grams. This means the Hyacinth V2U has a slightly heavier feel when the key is fully depressed, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, if you favor a lighter switch, the Box White V2 is the better choice, while the Hyacinth V2U offers a marginally heavier bottoming-out sensation for those who enjoy a bit more resistance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch, we see that the Box White V2 has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Hyacinth V2U offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.9 mm. This indicates that the Box White V2 is the shorter option, delivering a more responsive feel that may appeal to gamers looking for quicker key presses. Conversely, the Hyacinth V2U, with its longer travel distance, may be more suitable for users who prefer a more substantial and hearty typing experience, minimizing the abruptness that can come with shorter switch designs. Thus, the choice between these two switches ultimately depends on individual preferences for response speed versus depth in key travel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Kailh Box White 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 Box White V2 for $3.00.
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
When it comes to sound, the Kailh Box White V2 switches deliver a pronounced and crisp click with every keystroke, making them highly satisfying for those who enjoy audible feedback when typing. This sharp, clicking noise is distinct and can serve to enhance the experience of typing, especially for enthusiasts and gamers alike. In contrast, the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switches offer a more subdued sound profile, characterized by a neutral tone that produces a moderate and dampened sound when pressed. While the Hyacinth V2Us do not provide the same kind of pronounced auditory feedback as the Box White V2, their softly resonant, bassier sound suits environments where you might not want to disturb others, offering a balance between satisfying feedback and quiet operation.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box White V2 provides a tactile sensation that some users find uniquely gratifying, although specific details about its tactile feedback are not provided here. In contrast, the Hyacinth V2U switches prioritize smoothness and refinement, described as polished and silky, which leads to a typing experience marked by reduced friction and exceptional smoothness. This refined feel makes the Hyacinth V2U an attractive option for those who enjoy gliding effortlessly across the keys, providing a different kind of enjoyment from the tactile bump that accompanies the Box White V2.
Overall, the Kailh Box White V2 switches and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switches cater to very different typing preferences and environments. Those who revel in distinct auditory feedback and tactile response will likely appreciate the Box White V2, while users seeking a smooth and quiet typing experience will find the Hyacinth V2U more to their liking. While each switch delivers unique qualities in sound and feel, the choice ultimately hinges on individual typing preferences and intended use cases.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Kailh Box White V2 and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U should depend largely on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a tactile experience with an audible click, the Box White V2 is an excellent option, particularly if you like the sensation of feedback during typing. With its lighter actuation force of 50 grams, it is great for fast typists or those who relish the extra engagement that comes with clicky switches. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, more polished typing experience, the Hyacinth V2U's bounciness and fuller travel distance could be more appealing. It caters to those who appreciate a nuanced yet subdued sound, making it suitable for both home and office environments, while still providing a comfortable typing feel. Ultimately, consider where you’ll be using the keyboard most—if it’s a quieter setting, the Hyacinth V2U may better suit your needs, while the Box White V2 could shine in a more lively atmosphere where the clicky feedback is welcomed.
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