HC Studio Crabapple vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the HC Studio Crabapple and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U both offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. The Crabapple's POM construction provides a frictionless typing experience with a dry smoothness and subtle texture, accompanied by a mild and understated sound signature. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2U features a fuller travel distance and a bouncier feel, thanks to its 22mm spring and nylon material, resulting in a softer, bassier sound. While the Crabapple leans towards a more textured and subdued typing experience, the Hyacinth V2U offers a polished and silky feel. 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
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U both play a significant role in shaping the sound profile of the switches. The Crabapple's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound compared to the Hyacinth V2U's polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper and crisper sound. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Hyacinth V2U also allows for RGB lighting, adding a visual element to the auditory experience. In contrast, the Crabapple's POM bottom housing contributes to a similar deep and muted sound, while the Hyacinth V2U's nylon bottom housing creates a fuller and rounder sound due to its softer nature.
While the Crabapple and the Hyacinth V2U both offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials, they also differ in certain aspects. The top and bottom housings of the switches play a crucial role in determining the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches. The Crabapple's POM housings create a more consistent sound profile across both the top and bottom, with a focus on deeper tones. In contrast, the Hyacinth V2U's utilization of polycarbonate and nylon in their top and bottom housings creates a dynamic range of sound, from sharp and crisp to deep and full, depending on where the key is pressed.
Overall, the choice between the Crabapple and the Hyacinth V2U housing materials comes down to personal preference in sound and feel. The POM and polycarbonate housings of the Crabapple and Hyacinth V2U respectively offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing experiences. Whether you prefer a deeper and more muted sound profile or a sharper and crisper sound, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience based on their housing materials. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for sound and feel when typing.
Weight
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Crabapple requires 45 grams to fully press down, while the Hyacinth V2U needs 52 grams for the same. Both switches fall in the lighter to medium-light range, with the Crabapple being on the lighter side overall. Those looking for a more effortless typing experience may prefer the Crabapple, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance might lean towards the Hyacinth V2U. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing feel and experience with each switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch with 3.6 mm and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch with 3.9 mm, it is clear that the Hyacinth V2U has a slightly longer travel distance. The Crabapple has a shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for those seeking faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2U may appeal to individuals who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on personal preferences, but overall, the difference in travel distance is minimal and users can expect similar results from either option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HC Studio Crabapple has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Crabapple for $4.70.
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
When it comes to sound, the Crabapple linear switch is known for its subdued and mild sound signature, providing a quiet and understated typing experience. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch offers a softer, bassier sound due to being crafted from nylon, creating a more full-bodied typing sound. Both switches fall on the quieter side of the spectrum, making them suitable for environments where noise may be a concern. Ultimately, if you enjoy a softer and more subdued typing sound, either switch will provide a satisfying auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the Crabapple linear switch is revered for its frictionless and textured typing experience, offering a smooth and effortless journey with a subtle texture felt with each keystroke. In contrast, the Hyacinth V2U linear switch boasts a polished and silky feel, providing a refined and exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance. While the Crabapple emphasizes frictionless typing, the Hyacinth V2U focuses on a polished and smooth key travel. Depending on personal preference, users may gravitate towards the textured feel of the Crabapple or the silky smoothness of the Hyacinth V2U for their typing needs.
Considering the information presented, both the HC Studio Crabapple and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Crabapple excels in providing a subdued sound and a frictionless, textured typing feel, while the Hyacinth V2U emphasizes a softer, bassier sound and a polished, silky smooth typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference regarding sound profile and tactile feel. However, users can expect a high-quality typing experience with either switch, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable journey with each keystroke.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a frictionless, dry smooth typing experience with a subtle texture, then the Crabapple may be the switch for you. Additionally, if you enjoy a subdued sound signature and a mild typing feel, the Crabapple is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a fuller travel distance with added bounciness, the Hyacinth V2U might be more suited to your preferences. The V2U also offers a softer, bassier sound signature and a polished, silky typing feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound profile.
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