Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 mechanical keyboard switches, it's essential to understand the unique features that set them apart. The CAP Anniversary switch is praised for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes, thanks to its innovative CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stem. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2 stands out for its crisp top-out sound and deep 'clack', offering a resonant and satisfying auditory experience. While the CAP Anniversary is categorized as 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', the Hyacinth V2 boasts qualities like 'Clacky', 'Creamy', and 'Frictionless', among others. These general pointers can help guide your decision based on your preferences. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
Single-stage 22mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CAP Anniversary and Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 both feature polycarbonate top housing which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which results in a clear and resonant sound. The translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through. However, both switches also have nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.
While both switches share similar housing materials in their top and bottom housings, the impact of these materials is split between the bottom and top of the switch. When typing on the switches, the qualities of the bottom housing will be felt, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. The bottom housing's softer nylon material contributes to the deeper and fuller sound profile when the keys are pressed. Conversely, the top housing has more influence on the sound when keys are released, maintaining the sharp and crisp sound profile of the polycarbonate material. Despite these differences, both switches offer a balance of sound qualities due to the combination of polycarbonate and nylon materials in their housing.
In terms of aesthetics, both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 feature clear housings made of polycarbonate. This not only adds a visually appealing aspect to the switches but also allows for RGB lighting to shine through. The clear housing showcases the internal components of the switches, giving a modern and sleek appearance. While the housing materials may differ in their impact on sound, the clear polycarbonate top housing of both switches ensures a consistent and visually striking design element. Overall, both switches offer a unique combination of housing materials that enhance both the sound profile and visual appeal of the switches.
Weight
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2's 45 grams, making the Hyacinth V2 the lighter option in this comparison. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the CAP Anniversary requires 65 grams while the Hyacinth V2 only needs 52 grams, making the Hyacinth V2 the lighter option once again. The CAP Anniversary provides a medium-heavy typing experience with a more substantial push feel, while the Hyacinth V2 offers a medium-light touch that may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, with the lighter actuation and bottom out force of the Hyacinth V2 providing a smoother typing experience, while the heavier forces of the CAP Anniversary may appeal to those looking for a more robust feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Hyacinth V2 has a shorter travel distance compared to the CAP Anniversary, which means it offers a quicker response time for users who prefer a more responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the CAP Anniversary provides a slightly longer travel distance, which may be preferred by users who enjoy a more substantial depth when pressing down on the keys. Both switches offer their own advantages based on personal preferences, with the shorter travel distance catering to those looking for speed and the longer travel distance appealing to those desiring a more deliberate keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual typing preferences and needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CAP Anniversary has an MSRP of $4.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CAP Anniversary for $4.10.
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 CAP Anniversary switch offers a quiet and smooth typing experience, while the Hyacinth V2 switch provides a distinctively clacky and crisp sound with each keystroke. The CAP Anniversary switch focuses on a quieter typing experience, ideal for those who prefer minimal noise while typing, whereas the Hyacinth V2 switch caters to enthusiasts looking for a more pronounced and satisfying click sound. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard layout and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, both the CAP Anniversary and Hyacinth V2 switches offer a creamy and polished typing experience. The CAP Anniversary switch is described as snappy and creamy, providing a responsive and smooth typing sensation with reduced wobble, while the Hyacinth V2 switch offers a frictionless and silky typing experience, enhancing overall smoothness and minimizing resistance during key presses. Both switches excel in providing a refined and polished typing feel, making them suitable for users who prioritize a buttery smooth typing experience with minimal friction.
Overall, the CAP Anniversary switch emphasizes smooth keystrokes and stability, appealing to users who favor a quiet and stable typing experience. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 switch stands out for its clacky sound profile and seamless blend of sound and performance, making it a top choice for enthusiasts seeking a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound, feel, and overall typing experience. If you're looking for similar results in terms of a creamy and polished typing feel, both switches offer excellent options for a smooth and satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, it's essential to consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a smooth keystroke with minimal wobble and stable feedback, the CAP Anniversary might be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you seek a crisp top-out sound with a resonant 'clack' and a seamless blend of sound and performance, the Hyacinth V2 could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize smoothness and stability or a satisfying auditory experience in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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