Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U each offer distinct experiences designed for different types of typists. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro is celebrated for its prominent tactile bump, delivering a pronounced feedback that many users find satisfying, alongside a loud, bassy sound signature that caters to those who enjoy a more auditory typing experience. In contrast, the Hyacinth V2U features a traditional fuller travel distance of 3.9mm, appealing to those who prefer a classic typing feel. With its silky responsiveness aided by a 22mm spring, the Hyacinth V2U strikes a balance between old-school charm and modern efficiency, all while maintaining a neutral sound profile. Both switches present unique advantages: the Creamy Purple Pro for its tactile feedback and sound, and the Hyacinth V2U for its traditional travel and bounce. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
30g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Nylon
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
When comparing the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a similar auditory experience. The use of polycarbonate leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. This material allows for exceptional resonance and clarity, making it particularly advantageous for users who enjoy vibrant RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the visual appeal. Hence, both switches will deliver a comparable sound signature when it comes to the impact of the top housing.
In contrast, the bottom housing of each switch differs, with both featuring nylon materials that share similar characteristics. The stands out for its ability to provide a deeper, fuller sound profile largely due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs sound rather than amplifying it. This means that when users press down on either switch, they will experience a muted yet rich sound, creating a distinctive tactile experience. Although the nylon bottom housing is consistent in both models, they will each produce a sound that is more rounded and softer, diverging from the crispness of the polycarbonate tops.
Overall, while both the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U benefit from a polycarbonate top housing that fosters clarity and brilliance, they offer a harmonious balance with their nylon bottoms. The top housing's impact is prominent when releasing keys, adding a bright signature, while the nylon bottom provides depth and richness during key presses. This thoughtful combination results in switches that, while differing in material between top and bottom, create a well-rounded, harmonious sound that many enthusiasts will appreciate.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch, significant differences in actuation force and bottom out force emerge. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro features a lighter actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a softer touch for longer typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Hyacinth V2U has a higher actuation force of 45 grams and a slightly firmer bottom out force of 52 grams, catering to those who appreciate a more substantial tactile feedback during keystrokes. Consequently, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro is the lighter option, while the Hyacinth V2U offers a medium-light resistance, providing a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches hinges on personal preference for weight and typing experience; lighter switches accommodate extended use comfortably, while heavier switches deliver a more pronounced tactile sensation.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch features a travel distance of 3 mm, while the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch has a longer travel distance of 3.9 mm. This difference indicates that the V3 Creamy Purple Pro offers a shallower feel, ideal for gamers seeking quicker response times and a more responsive typing experience. In contrast, the Hyacinth V2U, with its greater travel distance, provides a more substantial depth that some users may prefer for a tactile and satisfying key press. Thus, if you value rapid actuation and a snappier overall experience, the Akko V3 would be the better choice, whereas the Hyacinth V2U might appeal to those who appreciate a more pronounced key travel. Overall, they cater to different preferences, with the V3 being the shorter option and the Hyacinth V2U being the longer one.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Creamy Purple Pro for $2.10.
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 Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro stands out with a significantly louder sound signature that leans towards the bassy side, making each keystroke more pronounced and engaging. The tactile bump paired with its volume offers a satisfying auditory feedback that many typists and gamers appreciate. In contrast, the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U adopts a more subdued approach, characterized by a softer, more neutral sound profile. While still audible, the V2U's sound is dampened and refined, making it suitable for quieter environments without sacrificing the tactile experience. The key nuance here is that while the Creamy Purple Pro offers a louder punch, the Hyacinth V2U balances sound and usability effectively, making both suitable for different preferences depending on the user’s environment.
In terms of feel, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro is noted for its prominent tactile bump, which creates a distinct feedback that can significantly enhance typing or gaming experiences. However, the specific descriptions of its smoothness and overall feel are not provided. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U excels with a polished and silky typing experience, minimizing resistance with each keystroke. The refined finish of the V2U and the added bounciness from the 22mm spring contribute to an incredibly smooth and satisfying feel, appealing to those who prioritize a seamless typing flow. This contrast highlights the Creamy Purple Pro's tactile emphasis versus the Hyacinth V2U's focus on overall smoothness, allowing users to select based on their ergonomic and tactile preferences.
In conclusion, both the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switches offer distinct experiences tailored to different typing styles and sound preferences. The Creamy Purple Pro delivers a robust tactile feedback with a loud sound signature ideal for those who enjoy pronounced keystrokes. In contrast, the Hyacinth V2U combines a softer, subdued sound with an exceptionally smooth feel, making it a great choice for users looking for a slick typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between them depends on what qualities are prioritized in your typing experience—whether it's the tactile feedback you crave or the desire for a smooth and polished feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a pronounced tactile feedback and a more audible keystroke that provides a satisfying typing experience, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro, with its light bottom-out force and pronounced tactile bump, might be the perfect option for you. This switch is particularly well-suited for those who appreciate day-to-day typing or gaming where the tactile feedback can enhance performance and enjoyment. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that combines a smooth, silky feel with a more subdued noise level, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U would be a better fit. With its slightly heavier bottom-out force and fuller travel distance, it offers a polished typing experience that balances traditional feel with modern adaptability, making it suitable for both work and leisure environments. Consider your specific needs for feedback, sound, and travel when making your selection to ensure that your mechanical keyboard is tailored precisely to your preferences.
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