Aflion Carrot vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Carrot and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Carrot switch is a tactile option known for its bouncy feel and mid-pitched, firm sound profile. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2U is a linear switch with a longer travel distance of 3.9mm, providing a more traditional typing experience with added bounciness and a softer, bassier sound. While the Carrot switch is described as 'Clacky' and 'Bouncy', the Hyacinth V2U is categorized as 'Neutral' and 'Silky'. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference. 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
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Carrot and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U both feature polycarbonate top housings, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Polycarbonate is known for its translucency, making it especially useful for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting. However, the differences may lie in the additional materials used in the housing construction process.
When it comes to the bottom housings, the Aflion Carrot utilizes nylon, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. In contrast, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U also features a nylon bottom housing, offering similar sound characteristics as the Carrot. Both switches benefit from the sound-absorbing properties of nylon, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile compared to harder plastic materials.
Despite the similarities in housing materials between the Aflion Carrot and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U, the differences in their design may still impact the overall sound and feel of the switches. The division of housing materials between the top and bottom can influence how the switch sounds and feels when typing. The bottom housing material typically affects the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material plays a greater role in the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch, it is evident that the Carrot is lighter than the Hyacinth V2U. The Carrot has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Hyacinth V2U has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams. The Carrot offers a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2U provides a slightly heavier touch, offering a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces, with the lighter Carrot being suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch, while the Hyacinth V2U is better suited for those who prefer a medium-light feel.
Travel distance
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is slightly longer than the 3.9 mm travel distance of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Carrot being on the longer side. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Hyacinth V2U for quicker response times, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Carrot with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience desired. Overall, both switches offer a different tactile feel due to their slightly varying travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Aflion Carrot has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Carrot for $3.57.
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
In terms of sound, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is known for its clacky and marbly sound profile, offering a sharp and percussive tone that resonates with each keypress. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch produces a more neutral and subdued sound, providing a quieter and more dampened typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound, the Carrot switch will deliver a more lively and vivid auditory feedback, while the Hyacinth V2U switch will provide a smoother and less pronounced sound signature.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch excels in providing a bouncy and snappy typing experience, thanks to its two-stage spring mechanism that offers a lively feedback with each keypress. Additionally, it offers a stepped and feathery sensation, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch boasts a polished and silky feel, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and enhanced key travel. Whether you prefer a more tactile and bouncy feel or a smoother and polished typing experience, both switches offer unique qualities to cater to different preferences.
Overall, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Carrot switch provides a clacky and bouncy typing experience with a mid-pitched sound profile, the Hyacinth V2U switch offers a neutral and subdued sound with a polished and silky feel. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches provide a unique and satisfying typing experience that caters to different tastes in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Aflion Carrot tactile switch or the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch, it ultimately boils down to your personal preferences in typing experience. If you enjoy a bouncy, tactile feel with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, the Carrot switch might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a fuller travel distance and a softer, bassier sound signature, along with a smooth and refined typing experience, the Hyacinth V2U switch could be more suitable. Consider factors such as bottom out force, sound profile descriptors, and feel descriptors to make an informed decision based on what type of typing experience you are looking for. Ultimately, both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose based on what aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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