Bsun Pine vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine 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 Bsun Pine and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 stand out as distinct options. The Bsun Pine is a tactile switch known for its sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, providing a direct and no-nonsense typing experience. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 is a linear switch offering a crisp top-out sound and a deep 'clack', appealing to enthusiasts seeking a satisfying auditory feedback. While the Pine is categorized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy', the Hyacinth V2 is classified as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', 'Polished', 'Silky', and 'Snappy'. Each switch has its own unique qualities and benefits that may appeal to different users based on their preferences and typing style. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Stainless steel
Spring
Single-stage 22mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Pine and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, providing a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. This material's stiffness contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches that intend to use RGB lighting due to its translucency. While both switches offer similar sound characteristics with their polycarbonate top housing, the difference lies in their bottom housing material.
In terms of bottom housing, both the Bsun Pine and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 feature nylon, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer plastic composition absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This material choice impacts the overall typing experience, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Although both switches share the same bottom housing material, the qualities of nylon are essential for achieving a satisfying typing experience.
In essence, the Bsun Pine and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 offer a unique combination of housing materials that work in tandem to create a well-rounded sound profile and typing experience. While their polycarbonate top housing provides a sharp and resonant sound, the nylon bottom housing enhances the depth and fullness of the sound. The differentiation in housing materials between the two switches showcases how the combination of different plastics can influence the overall sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, there are noticeable differences in weight. The Pine has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the Hyacinth V2's 52 grams, making the Pine more substantial in typing experience. However, both switches share the same actuation force of 45 grams, ensuring a consistent trigger of keystrokes. Some may prefer the Pine for its heavier bottom out force, allowing for a more solid typing feel, while others may opt for the lighter bottom out force of the Hyacinth V2 for longer typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing experience and desired weight of key presses.
Travel distance
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm, while the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm. Both switches offer a shorter travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0mm distance, making them ideal for those looking for quicker response times. However, the Pine has a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal more to gamers looking for rapid keystrokes. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2 offers a slightly longer travel distance, providing a bit more depth for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, with the Pine being marginally shorter and the Hyacinth V2 being marginally longer.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Pine has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $3.70.
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 BSUN Pine switches are best known for their sharp and distinct tactile bump, which results in a crisp and direct typing sound. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switches offer a deep and resonant 'clack' that provides a satisfying auditory experience. Both switches deliver unique sound profiles, with the Pine offering a more sharp and direct sound, while the Hyacinth V2 provides a deeper and more resonant acoustic feedback. Depending on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard, users can expect to achieve different sound experiences with these switches.
Moving on to the feel, the BSUN Pine switches are characterized by a sharp tactile bump that provides a pronounced feedback and quick bottom-out, resulting in an invigorating and snappy typing sensation. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switches offer a creamy and polished feel, with a smooth and frictionless typing experience. Both switches offer unique tactile feedback, with the Pine switches focusing on a sharp and distinct tactile bump, while the Hyacinth V2 switches provide a smooth and buttery keystroke. Users looking for a more pronounced and sharp tactile feedback may prefer the Pine switches, while those seeking a smoother and polished typing experience may opt for the Hyacinth V2 switches.
In conclusion, the BSUN Pine tactile switches and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switches offer distinct sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences. The Pine switches excel in providing a sharp and direct typing sound with a snappy tactile feedback, ideal for users who appreciate a more direct and intense typing experience. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2 switches offer a deep and resonant 'clack' sound with a smooth and creamy typing feel, perfect for enthusiasts seeking a polished and buttery keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the BSUN Pine tactile switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, consider your typing preferences. If you prefer a switch with a notably sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out action, the Pine would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a switch with a deep and resonant 'clack' sound and a smooth, frictionless typing experience, the Hyacinth V2 may be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize tactile feedback and quick keypresses (BSUN Pine) or a satisfying sound and smooth typing experience (Sillyworks Hyacinth V2). Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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