Akko Fairy vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko Fairy and Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 mechanical keyboard switches, the Fairy stands out for its smooth and refined typing experience, making it an excellent choice for office settings. The factory-applied lubrication ensures a comfortable and fatigue-free typing experience, perfect for extended use during professional tasks. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2 offers a distinct deep 'clack' sound with each keystroke, providing a satisfying auditory feedback that appeals to keyboard enthusiasts seeking a more immersive experience. While the Fairy is known for its muted and subtle qualities, the Hyacinth V2 is described as clacky and snappy. 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17mm stainless steel spring
Spring
Single-stage 22mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The nylon top housing of the Akko Fairy and the polycarbonate top housing of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 offer contrasting sound profiles. The nylon top housing of the Fairy creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Hyacinth V2 produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile, whereas the stiffness of polycarbonate leads to a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic element to the switch design.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Fairy and the Hyacinth V2 utilize nylon, resulting in similar sound profiles. The nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This consistency in bottom housing material ensures a cohesive sound experience across both switches, maintaining a consistent typing feel and sound profile for users.
The division of housing materials between the top and bottom of a switch impacts the overall sound profile and feel of the switch. The bottom housing material has a greater effect on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. This distinction highlights the importance of housing materials in determining the overall typing experience, with nylon providing a deeper and fuller sound profile in both the Fairy and Hyacinth V2 switches.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, one can see that the Fairy has a slightly higher actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Hyacinth V2. The Fairy requires 50 grams of force to actuate the keystroke and 60 grams to bottom out, while the Hyacinth V2 only needs 45 grams to actuate and 52 grams to bottom out. This makes the Hyacinth V2 the lighter option between the two, which may be preferred by those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. However, some users may prefer the Fairy's heavier forces for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko Fairy linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch both offer relatively short travel distances compared to traditional switches. The Fairy has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Hyacinth V2 has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. Despite the minimal difference in distance, the Fairy would be considered slightly shorter than the Hyacinth V2. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Fairy, while those who enjoy a deeper press may lean towards the slightly longer travel distance of the Hyacinth V2. Overall, both switches offer a modern, shorter travel distance compared to traditional switches, catering to different preferences in typing or gaming experiences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko Fairy has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Fairy for $3.10.
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 it comes to sound, the Akko Fairy switch is known for its muted and neutral qualities, providing a softer and quieter typing experience suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 switch offers a clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and percussive noise with each keystroke. Depending on your preference for sound, the Fairy switch will offer a more subdued typing experience, while the Hyacinth V2 switch will deliver a more pronounced and crisp auditory feedback.
In terms of feel, the Akko Fairy switch is described as polished, mild, and subtle, offering a smooth, gentle, and light typing feel that is suitable for extended use in shared spaces. On the contrary, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 switch provides a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience, boasting a buttery smooth sensation with minimal resistance during key presses. If you prefer a typing feel that emphasizes smoothness and fluidity, the Hyacinth V2 switch would be the ideal choice, while the Fairy switch caters to those seeking a more refined and subtle typing experience.
Overall, the Akko Fairy linear switch and Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Fairy switch provides a quieter and comfortable typing experience suitable for professional settings, the Hyacinth V2 switch delivers a more pronounced and smooth typing feel with a unique clacky sound profile. Depending on your preference for sound and typing experience, both switches offer a balanced blend of performance and comfort, ensuring a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize a more subdued and polished typing experience (Fairy) or a smoother and more pronounced feel with a distinctive sound (Hyacinth V2).
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, you should consider the context in which you will be using the keyboard. If you prioritize a smooth and comfortable typing experience without excessive noise in an office environment, the Fairy switch with its medium bottom out force and muted sound profile would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you are an enthusiast seeking a more pronounced auditory feedback and a creamy, frictionless typing experience, the Hyacinth V2 switch with its lower bottom out force and clacky sound profile would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and the specific requirements of your typing environment.
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