Kailh Box White vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box White and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 offer contrasting experiences for users. The Box White is a clicky switch that provides maximum audio feedback with a "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch and accented tactility when typing. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2 is a linear switch known for its deep 'clack' sound and seamless blend of sound and performance. While the Box White is resonant and high-pitched, the Hyacinth V2 is clacky and creamy, offering a different typing experience. If you prefer a crisp top-out sound and a satisfying acoustic experience, the Hyacinth V2 might be the switch for you. 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
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Single-stage 22mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box White and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, these switches produce a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal material for switches designed for RGB lighting. However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Box White utilizes nylon while the Hyacinth V2 also uses polycarbonate. The nylon bottom housing of the Box White creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Hyacinth V2's polycarbonate bottom housing, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound.
One key difference between the Kailh Box White and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 lies in their choice of bottom housing material. The Box White's nylon bottom housing provides a unique typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to the softer nature of nylon compared to the Hyacinth V2's polycarbonate bottom housing. This difference in material affects the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches, making each switch suitable for different preferences. However, both switches share the use of polycarbonate in their top housing, which contributes to a similar sharp and clear sound profile when keys are pressed.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Kailh Box White and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 play a significant role in shaping the sound profile of these switches. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that result in a sharp and crisp sound, the difference in bottom housing materials leads to distinct typing experiences. The nylon bottom housing of the Box White creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the Hyacinth V2's polycarbonate bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
The Kailh Box White clicky switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, which requires 45 grams to actuate. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Box White is also heavier at 60 grams compared to the Hyacinth V2's 52 grams. This means that the Box White switch offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier feel, while the Hyacinth V2 provides a lighter touch for smoother keystrokes. Both switches fall within the medium range of force required, making them suitable for a variety of typing preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, slightly longer than the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch which has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. While the difference may seem minimal, it can have an impact on the user experience. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the slightly shorter travel distance of the Hyacinth V2, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress might lean towards the Box White. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for a more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of keypress feel and responsiveness.
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 White comes in at $2.76 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 White clicky switch offers a resonant and high-pitched experience with a crunchy tactile feedback akin to stepping on autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch provides a clacky and sharp sound profile that delivers a crisp top-out sound in every stroke. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences, with the Box White emphasizing higher-pitched tones and the Hyacinth V2 showcasing a bright and percussive sound. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference, as the Box White's crunchy sound may appeal to those seeking a more tactile feedback, while the Hyacinth V2's clacky sound may cater to enthusiasts looking for a resonant and deep acoustic experience.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box White switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 switch is known for its creamy and frictionless feel, providing a buttery typing sensation with effortless key presses. The Hyacinth V2 also offers a silky smooth experience, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys, as well as a snappy responsiveness that makes the typing experience feel more alive. While both switches offer a smooth and polished feel, the Hyacinth V2 may appeal to those who prioritize a creamy and frictionless typing experience.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch each offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box White provides a crunchy and high-pitched sound with a polished typing feel, ideal for those who enjoy tactile feedback and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2 delivers a clacky and sharp sound profile with a creamy and frictionless typing feel, catering to enthusiasts seeking a deep acoustic experience and buttery key presses. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for sound and feel, both of which offer a premium typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the Kailh Box White clicky switch or the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for auditory feedback and typing experience. If you enjoy a high-pitched, crunchy sound while typing and prefer a switch with accented tactility, the Box White may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a deep, clacky sound with a smooth and frictionless typing experience, the Hyacinth V2 could be the switch that suits your needs. Be sure to consider both the sound and feel descriptions provided for each switch to determine which one aligns best with your personal preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the Box White and Hyacinth V2 switches will depend on your individual typing style and what qualities you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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