Outemu Crystal vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Crystal and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U, both linear switches. The Crystal switch is known for its unique linear typing experience with a medium-light weight and elastic feel, providing a neutral sound profile while typing. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2U offers a fuller travel distance of 3.9mm, reminiscent of traditional typing experiences, and incorporates a 22mm spring for added bounciness. Crafted from nylon, these switches produce a softer, bassier sound signature. While the Crystal switch leans towards a chirpy, high-pitched sound profile, the Hyacinth V2U offers a more subdued and silky typing experience. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. 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
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Crystal and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. This material is ideal for switches intended for RGB lighting as its translucency allows for the light to shine through effectively. However, while both switches share this common feature, the bottom housing material sets them apart. The Crystal utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing as well, while the Hyacinth V2U uses nylon. The nylon bottom housing of the Hyacinth V2U contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Crystal, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of sound profile, the polycarbonate top housing of both switches provides a similar experience with a sharp, crisp sound when typing. However, where they differ is in the bottom housing material. The Crystal's polycarbonate bottom housing complements the top housing, leading to a clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2U's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, offering a different typing experience. This contrast in sound profiles showcases how different housing materials can impact the overall feel and sound of a switch.
While the top housings of the Outemu Crystal and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U may be the same, their bottom housings provide unique characteristics to each switch. The split between the two housing materials allows for a distinct typing experience when pressing down on a key and when letting go. The Crystal's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a clear and resonant bottom-out sound and feel, while the Hyacinth V2U's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound upon keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, fuller sound in your typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch, both switches have a similar actuation force of 45 grams, providing a consistent keystroke experience. However, the Crystal has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 55 grams compared to the Hyacinth V2U's 52 grams, making it slightly firmer when fully pressed. For those who prefer a lighter typing feel, the Hyacinth V2U may be the preferred choice due to its slightly lighter bottom out force. In contrast, the Crystal may be better suited for individuals who enjoy a bit more resistance for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the differences in force between the two switches cater to individual preferences for typing comfort and efficiency.
Travel distance
The Outemu Crystal linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.9 mm. The Crystal offers a more traditional travel distance compared to the slightly shallower distance of the Hyacinth V2U. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Hyacinth V2U, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Crystal with its longer travel distance. Overall, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of travel distance, with the Crystal being slightly longer than the Hyacinth V2U.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40 per 10 switches.
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 Outemu Crystal linear switch is often described as chirpy and high-pitched, providing a unique and sharp sound profile when typing. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch offers a softer, bassier sound signature, described as neutral and subdued. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference for sound, with the Crystal switches leaning towards a more distinct and crisp sound, while the Hyacinth V2U switches offer a smoother and more muffled typing experience.
When it comes to feel, both the Outemu Crystal and Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switches are described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Additionally, the Hyacinth V2U switches are also noted for their silky feel, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimized resistance when pressing and releasing keys. In this aspect, both switches offer a high-quality typing feel that prioritizes smoothness and comfort for the user.
Overall, the Outemu Crystal linear switches are known for their unique linear typing experience with an elastic feel and medium-light weight, paired with a neutral sound profile. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switches offer a fuller travel distance and added bounciness with a softer, bassier sound signature that marries traditional and modern typing experiences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would boil down to individual preferences for sound and feel, with both switches offering quality performance in their respective attributes.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a unique, linear feel with a medium-light weight and a neutral sound profile, the Outemu Crystal may be the right choice for you. However, if you prefer a fuller travel distance, a bouncier feel with a soft, bassier sound signature, and a nod to traditional typing experiences, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, whether you prioritize the feel, sound, or overall typing experience, both switches offer unique qualities to enhance your keyboarding experience.
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