Durock Dolphin vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U

Overview

When comparing the Durock Dolphin and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U mechanical keyboard switches, one immediately notices their differences in sound and actuation force. The Dolphin, a linear switch, is praised for its silent operation, making it a top choice for quiet office environments. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, it provides a balance between precision and a satisfying press. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2U offers a fuller travel distance of 3.9mm, reminiscent of traditional typing experiences, and enhanced with a 22mm spring for added bounciness. Crafted from nylon, the V2U produces a softer, bassier sound profile. While the Dolphin is ideal for those who prefer a switch with resistance and a low-pitched sound, the V2U appeals to users looking for a mix of old-school typing feel and modern features. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Durock Dolphin Linear

HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U Linear

$6.87

$5.41 per 10

$3.50

$2.91 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Durock Dolphin and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this top housing material, the differences come in their nylon bottom housings. The Dolphin uses a nylon bottom housing which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Hyacinth V2U also has a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience with a rounder and duller sound.

While the polycarbonate top housing in both the Dolphin and Hyacinth V2U provides a consistent sound profile, the nylon bottom housings showcase the differences in typing experience between the two switches. The Dolphin's nylon bottom housing gives a deeper and fuller sound, emphasizing the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2U's nylon bottom housing also offers a similar experience with its softer plastic absorbing more sound for a rounder and duller typing sound. Both switches benefit from the combination of different housing materials, splitting the qualities between the top and bottom to create a unique typing experience.

In conclusion, while the housing materials of the Durock Dolphin and Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U may be similar in some aspects such as their polycarbonate top housing, the differences in their nylon bottom housings offer distinct typing experiences. The Dolphin's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Hyacinth V2U's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound for a rounder and duller typing sound. Ultimately, the combination of different housing materials in these switches provides users with a variety of options to choose from depending on their preferred typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch, it is evident that they both fall into the medium range in terms of bottom out force. The Durock Dolphin has a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Hyacinth V2U is slightly lighter at 52 grams. However, the actuation force of the Dolphin is not specified, while the Hyacinth V2U requires 45 grams of force to actuate a keystroke. This indicates that the Hyacinth V2U is slightly lighter in terms of actuation force compared to the Dolphin. In terms of preference, those who enjoy a lighter typing experience may prefer the Hyacinth V2U for longer typing sessions, while those who prefer a stronger push feel may opt for the Dolphin for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer a medium to medium-light typing experience, with the Hyacinth V2U being slightly lighter in both actuation and bottom out force.

Travel distance

The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.9 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for individuals seeking a more responsive typing or gaming experience. Gamers, in particular, may appreciate the quicker response times offered by these switches. However, the slight difference in travel distance may be noticeable to some users. Those who prefer a bit more depth in their keypresses may find the Durock Dolphin to be slightly more satisfying, while those who prioritize speed and agility may opt for the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, with the Hyacinth V2U being just a fraction longer than the Dolphin.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Durock Dolphin linear switch produces a muted and low-pitched sound, which is ideal for those looking for a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch yields a more neutral and subdued sound, thanks to its nylon construction and longer travel distance. While both switches offer a quieter typing experience compared to other switches, the Dolphin leans towards a softer and quieter sound profile, whereas the Hyacinth V2U provides a more subtle and dampened sound.

In terms of feel, both the Durock Dolphin and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switches offer a polished typing experience. This indicates that they have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and a sleek key travel experience. Additionally, the Hyacinth V2U boasts a silky feel, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Both switches are well-suited for those who appreciate a smooth and precise typing feel.

Overall, the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Dolphin excels in providing a quieter sound profile and a medium-heavy actuation force for those who prefer a bit more resistance, while the Hyacinth V2U combines a traditional typing experience with added bounciness and a softer, bassier sound signature. Ultimately, newcomers can expect a satisfying and polished typing experience with either switch, with the main differences lying in the sound profile and the feel during typing.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when choosing between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch, consider the environment in which you'll be using them. If you prioritize a silent typing experience and require a medium-heavy actuation force, the Dolphin may be the better choice for office settings or noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and bouncier typing feel with a medium-light actuation force and a fuller travel distance, the Hyacinth V2U could be more suitable for you. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them will depend on your specific typing style and preferences.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Dolphin Linear

$6.87

$5.41 per 10

Learn more

HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U Linear

$3.50

$2.91 per 10

Learn more