Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch with the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, it's important to consider their unique features and benefits. The EF Grayish switch is crafted with custom molds, offering a medium weight, neutral sound signature, and an affordable price point. It provides a tactile typing experience with a 'Stepped' and 'Snappy' feel. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2 switch stands out for its long stem pole, resulting in a crisp top-out sound with a deep 'clack' for a resonant auditory experience. It is appreciated for its 'Clacky', 'Creamy', and 'Silky' characteristics, providing a smooth and polished typing feel. Each switch offers a different typing experience tailored to individual 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
59g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
Double-staged spring
Spring
Single-stage 22mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting capabilities. The top housing material will play a significant role in the overall sound profile of both switches, providing a distinct typing experience.
However, the EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Hyacinth V2 differ when it comes to their bottom housings. The EverFree (EF) Grayish utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2 also features a nylon bottom housing, emphasizing a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound. Despite the differences in top and bottom housing materials, both switches maintain a consistent typing style.
In summary, while the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 share similarities in their polycarbonate top housings, they diverge in their choice of bottom housing material. The EverFree (EF) Grayish incorporates a softer nylon bottom housing for a deeper sound profile, while the Hyacinth V2 follows suit with a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience. Both switches focus on providing a unique sound profile and typing feel, showcasing the importance of housing materials in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Hyacinth V2 requires less force to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Hyacinth V2 has a bottom out force of 52 grams, while the bottom out force of the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch is unknown. This makes the Hyacinth V2 a lighter option for those who prefer a softer typing experience, while the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch may provide a more substantial typing feel due to its higher actuation force. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing or gaming needs.
Travel distance
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for faster response times. However, the EverFree (EF) Grayish may provide a slightly quicker keypress due to its shorter distance compared to the Hyacinth V2. If you prefer a more responsive and quick feel, the EverFree (EF) Grayish may be the better option. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly deeper keypress, the Hyacinth V2 may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish has an MSRP of $2.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the EverFree (EF) Grayish for $2.69.
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
When comparing the sound of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, the EverFree Grayish offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for most users, whether they are beginners or advanced enthusiasts. In contrast, the Hyacinth V2 provides a distinctively clacky sound that is sharp, snappy, and percussive, offering a unique auditory experience. The choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for a neutral sound versus a more pronounced and lively sound.
In terms of feel, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch provides a stepped tactile experience with a snappy response, offering users a tactile feedback that is responsive and engaging. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch offers a creamy, frictionless, polished, and silky typing experience that is smooth, effortless, and refined. Both switches excel in providing a tactile feel that enhances the overall typing experience, but they differ in terms of the specific sensations they offer.
Overall, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The EverFree Grayish is a reliable option with a neutral sound profile and a tactile feel that is responsive and snappy, making it a great choice for a wide range of users. In contrast, the Hyacinth V2 stands out with its clacky sound and creamy, frictionless, polished, and silky feel, providing enthusiasts with a distinctive typing experience that prioritizes smoothness and refinement. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on the user's preference for sound and feel in their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you are looking for a medium-weight tactile switch with a neutral sound profile and an approachable price point, the EverFree (EF) Grayish would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a linear switch with a distinctive deep 'clack' sound and a smooth, buttery typing experience, the Hyacinth V2 would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal typing style, sound preference, and overall keyboard experience goals. Choose wisely based on what matters most to you in a keyboard switch.
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