Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that come to mind are the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U. The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is favored by budget-conscious enthusiasts for its satisfying poppy sound and smooth tactile feel. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U offers a fuller travel distance and a bouncier experience with its 22mm spring. While the Cream Yellow Pro is characterized by being easy-to-press and snappy, the Hyacinth V2U is described as neutral and subdued. 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
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.90 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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U feature polycarbonate top housings which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, adding a visual element to the auditory experience. As a result, both switches offer similar benefits in terms of sound quality and aesthetics thanks to their polycarbonate top housings.
On the other hand, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Hyacinth V2U diverge in their choice of bottom housing material. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. Similarly, the Hyacinth V2U also features a nylon bottom housing, offering the same deep and full sound experience that nylon is renowned for. This shared choice of bottom housing material ensures that both switches provide a consistent typing experience in terms of sound quality.
In terms of typing experience, the differences in top and bottom housings can influence the overall feel and sound of a switch. While the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and overall typing feel. In this regard, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U may offer slightly varying typing experiences due to their differing bottom housing materials. However, the shared use of polycarbonate top housings ensures that both switches maintain a similar level of crispness and clarity in their sound profiles.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U's 45 grams, making the Hyacinth V2U the lighter option. In terms of bottom out force, the Cream Yellow Pro requires 60 grams, while the Hyacinth V2U needs 52 grams. Both switches fall within the medium force range, with the Cream Yellow Pro being slightly heavier. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Hyacinth V2U would be the better choice, as it requires less force for both actuation and bottom out. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel may appreciate the slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force of the Cream Yellow Pro. Overall, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing comfort and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch, we can see that the Cream Yellow Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the Hyacinth V2U's 3.9 mm. This means that the Cream Yellow Pro offers a slightly quicker response time when pressed. Gamers who prioritize speed may prefer the Cream Yellow Pro for this reason. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2U provides a slightly deeper travel distance, which some users may find more satisfying for typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference, with one offering a shorter travel distance for quicker inputs, while the other provides a bit more depth for a different tactile experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow 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 Yellow Pro for $2.00.
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 Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch offers a poppy, clacky sound that provides a vibrant auditory experience. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch produces a softer, bassier sound signature due to its nylon construction. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro leans towards a more lively and tactile sound, while the Hyacinth V2U offers a more subdued and mellow typing experience.
Moving on to feel, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch is described as easy-to-press and feathery, providing a responsive and low-impact typing feel. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2U switch is polished and silky, offering smooth and refined key travel. Both switches aim to reduce finger fatigue and provide a comfortable typing experience, with the V3 Cream Yellow Pro emphasizing light actuation force and the Hyacinth V2U focusing on smoothness and reduced friction.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro excels in providing a vibrant and tactile typing experience with its poppy sound and easy-to-press feel. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2U delivers a softer sound signature and a smooth, polished feel for those seeking a more refined typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different tastes in mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a satisfying sound profile and smooth tactile feel, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that offers a fuller travel distance and a softer, bassier sound signature, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switch may be more suitable for you. Additionally, if you value a switch that requires minimal force to activate and offers a responsive and low-impact typing feel, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is the way to go. Conversely, if you prioritize an exceptionally smooth typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switch is ideal. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your specific preferences and typing needs.
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