Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 mechanical keyboard switches, there are a few key differences to consider. The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro is a tactile switch known for its distinctive poppy and clacky sound profile, along with a smooth and bouncy tactile sensation. This switch is ideal for users who enjoy a lively audible feedback with a creamy feel. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 is a linear switch with a deep 'clack' sound and a crisp top-out sound in each stroke. This switch offers a seamless blend of sound and performance, making it a great choice for those who prioritize auditory feedback. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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 spring
Spring
Single-stage 22mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 are quite similar, as both keyboards feature polycarbonate top housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, allowing for clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is particularly beneficial for switches with RGB lighting, making it a popular choice for top housings in mechanical keyboards.
However, where the keyboards differ is in their bottom housing materials. The V3 Cream Blue Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2 also features a nylon bottom housing with similar sound qualities, providing a consistent typing experience with a focus on sound depth and fullness.
While both keyboards showcase the benefits of polycarbonate top housings for sharp and crisp sound profiles, the differences lie in the bottom housings. These variations can impact the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing material influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material affects the sound upon key release. Overall, both keyboards offer a unique combination of housing materials to cater to different preferences in sound and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, both switches have a similar actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro has a slightly higher bottom out force of 55 grams compared to the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2's 52 grams. This means that while both switches have a medium-light actuation force, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro requires a slightly heavier force to fully bottom out. Weight is an important consideration when choosing switches, as lighter switches allow for longer typing sessions while heavier switches provide a more substantial typing experience. In this case, if you prefer a slightly lighter typing experience, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 may be the better option, while the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro offers a slightly heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Hyacinth V2 has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the V3 Cream Blue Pro. In terms of typing or gaming experience, the difference of 0.2 mm may not be very noticeable to most users. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those who prefer quicker response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for a slightly shorter or longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Blue Pro for $2.00.
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 Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switch offers a distinct poppy and clacky sound profile that is both lively and harmonious. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 switch produces a deep, resonant 'clack' that provides a satisfying acoustic experience with each keystroke. Both switches excel in providing a unique auditory feedback that enhances the overall typing experience, making them top choices for users who prioritize sound quality in their mechanical keyboards.
In terms of feel, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switch is known for its accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished feel, offering a tactile sensation that strikes a perfect balance between tactility and smoothness. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 switch is described as creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy, providing a buttery smooth typing experience with minimal friction and resistance. Both switches prioritize a seamless and polished typing feel, ensuring a comfortable and satisfying experience for users who enjoy a tactile or linear switch.
Overall, both the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. While the Cream Blue Pro switch provides a lively and harmonious sound with a balanced tactile feel, the Hyacinth V2 switch offers a deep and resonant sound with a smooth and creamy typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for sound profile and typing feel, but users can expect a high level of quality and performance from either option.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize a lively, audible feedback with a creamy, tactile sensation, accompanied by a distinct poppy and clacky sound profile, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you seek a linear switch with a deep 'clack' sound and a seamless blend of sound and performance, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 could be the perfect choice. Both switches offer a medium-light bottom out force, but the V3 Cream Blue Pro is more accentuated and bouncy, while the Hyacinth V2 provides a creamy and polished typing experience. Ultimately, your decision may come down to your preference for sound and feel, so choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences and typing style.
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