HMX EMO vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the HMX EMO linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, keyboard enthusiasts are presented with two distinct options. The HMX EMO switch is known for its lively and clacky feel, featuring a feather-light 46g bottom-out force that provides a smooth and bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 stands out for its deep 'clack' and crisp top-out sound, offering a resonant and satisfying auditory feedback. While the EMO promises an effortless and satisfying typing experience, the Hyacinth V2 excels in blending sound and performance seamlessly. 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
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
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
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Single-stage 22mm Korean spring
Housing materials
Both the HMX EMO and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that leads to a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. On the other hand, the EMO and the Hyacinth V2 both feature nylon bottom housings, which create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
While both the EMO and the Hyacinth V2 share the benefits of polycarbonate top housings in terms of sound quality and aesthetics, they differ in their use of nylon for the bottom housing. The split between the bottom and top housings allows for a combination of qualities with each press of a key. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This split in housing materials provides a unique typing experience that combines the strengths of both polycarbonate and nylon for a balanced sound profile.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in the HMX EMO and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 plays a significant role in shaping the sound profile of the switches. Both switches benefit from the use of polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and clear sound, as well as nylon bottom housings for a deeper and fuller sound. While they share similarities in their top housing material, the differences in their bottom housing materials offer a distinctive typing experience that caters to different preferences in sound and feel. Ultimately, the combination of these housing materials in each switch contributes to their overall performance and user experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch provide different typing experiences. The EMO switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes and apply less pressure when typing. In contrast, the Hyacinth V2 switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. The EMO switch is lighter overall, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue, while the Hyacinth V2 switch offers a medium-light resistance for those who prefer a bit more feedback while typing. Both switches provide unique benefits depending on the user's preference for actuation force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch is identical, both measuring at 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, users will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. In terms of travel distance, both switches offer a consistent and similar typing experience. Thus, when comparing the travel distance of these two switches, users can expect to receive similar results regardless of which one they choose to use.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX EMO has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the EMO for $2.79.
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
In terms of sound, the HMX EMO switch is known for its lively and clacky sound, creating a satisfying and smooth auditory experience. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 offers a distinctive deep 'clack' that provides a resonant and satisfying acoustic feedback, perfect for enthusiasts looking for depth in their typing experience. While the EMO delivers a more lively sound, the Hyacinth V2 stands out for its crisp top-out sound with each keystroke.
When it comes to feel, the HMX EMO switch offers a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, giving it a bouncy and effortless typing experience that is both satisfying and smooth. On the contrary, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 is described as creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy, providing a smooth and buttery sensation with minimal resistance and a fluid key travel. Both switches excel in delivering a comfortable typing experience, with the EMO focusing on a bouncy feel and the Hyacinth V2 offering a silky and refined touch.
Overall, the HMX EMO and Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switches showcase distinct qualities in both sound and feel. While the EMO emphasizes a lively and clacky sound with a bouncy typing feel, the Hyacinth V2 provides a deep 'clack' sound with a creamy and frictionless typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer unique benefits that cater to different typing styles and preferences. Ultimately, selecting between the two would depend on whether you value a more vibrant sound or a smoother typing sensation in your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX EMO linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, consider the bottom-out force preference and typing experience you desire. If you prefer a lighter bottom-out force and a bouncy, clacky feel, the HMX EMO switch with its 46g force may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-light bottom-out force with a deep, resonant 'clack' sound and a creamy, polished, frictionless typing feel, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 switch could be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on how you prioritize typing comfort, sound feedback, and overall tactile experience in your mechanical keyboard.
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