Gateron CJ vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron CJ and Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 mechanical keyboard switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what you prioritize in your typing experience. The Gateron CJ is lauded for its unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch, with higher-pitched clacks and an incredibly smooth push feel. It falls under categories such as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', and 'Thocky', providing a satisfying typing experience for those who enjoy these characteristics. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 stands out for its deep 'clack' sound and long stem pole design, offering a crisp top-out sound in every stroke. It is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', and 'Snappy', appealing to enthusiasts who appreciate a blend of sound and performance in their mechanical keyboards. 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
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Single-stage 22mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CJ's housing materials of INK blend top and POM bottom create a unique combination of a clacky, thin, and higher-pitched sound profile with a deeper and more muted bottom-out sound. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 features a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile with a deeper and fuller bottom-out sound. While the CJ's POM bottom housing provides a more muted sound, the Hyacinth V2's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound overall.
In terms of aesthetics, the CJ's INK blend top housing may have a more opaque appearance compared to the Hyacinth V2's polycarbonate top housing, which allows for better RGB lighting effects due to its translucency. The use of polycarbonate in the Hyacinth V2's top housing contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound profile, while the CJ's POM bottom housing offers a unique and pleasing experience with its deeper sound. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the CJ being more on the clacky side and the Hyacinth V2 producing a sharper sound.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron CJ and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. While the CJ's housing materials may provide a more traditional and satisfying typing experience with its mix of INK blend top and POM bottom, the Hyacinth V2's polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing offer a sharper and fuller sound profile that may appeal to those looking for a crisper typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different tastes, making them both viable options for keyboard enthusiasts looking for a high-quality typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron CJ linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 with a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the CJ at 60 grams and the Hyacinth V2 at 52 grams. The CJ offers a more robust typing experience with a slightly higher actuation force, making it ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2 provides a lighter actuation force, perfect for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The Gateron CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The CJ linear switch offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Hyacinth V2 switch. This means that the CJ switch may provide a bit more depth and feedback when pressed, while the Hyacinth V2 switch may offer a quicker response due to its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference - those who prefer a bit more depth in their key press may opt for the Gateron CJ, while gamers looking for faster response times may lean towards the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on individual preferences, ensuring that users will get a similar typing experience regardless of the travel distance chosen.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CJ has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CJ for $5.35.
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 Gateron CJ linear switch is known for its higher-pitched clacks, giving it a chirpy and neutral profile that sets it apart. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch offers a deep 'clack' sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive, providing enthusiasts with a resonant and satisfying auditory experience. The choice between the two switches would depend on whether you prefer a higher-pitched, chirpy sound or a deep, clacky sound in your typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CJ linear switch is described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone suitable for most users. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch offers a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience. With its smooth and buttery sensation, minimal friction, refined finish, and exceptional smoothness, the Hyacinth V2 switch caters to users looking for a luxurious and effortless typing feel.
Overall, both the Gateron CJ and Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a higher-pitched, chirpy sound with a mild typing experience, the CJ switch would suit your preferences. However, if you enjoy a deep, clacky sound with a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience, the Hyacinth V2 switch would be the ideal choice. Whichever switch you choose, you can expect a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience based on your preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron CJ linear switch or the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a higher-pitched, chirpy sound with a smooth push feel, the CJ may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a deep 'clack' sound with a crisp top-out feel and a silky typing experience, the Hyacinth V2 could be the better choice. Both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so it's important to consider what aspects are most important to you in a keyboard switch. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your individual preferences and typing preferences.
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