Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 are both linear switches, each offering unique features that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Black is renowned for its heavier actuation and bottom-out force, providing a substantial typing experience for those who prefer a bit more resistance. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2 stands out for its crisp top-out sound and deep 'clack', appealing to enthusiasts looking for a satisfying auditory feedback. While the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a more subdued and balanced feel, the Hyacinth V2 prioritizes a seamless blend of sound and performance. 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
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Single-stage 22mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 Black's proprietary INK blend top housing provides a clacky and relatively high-pitched sound, while the Hyacinth V2's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound. Both switches offer satisfying sound profiles, with the G Pro 3.0 Black leaning towards a thinner sound and the Hyacinth V2 towards a more resonant one. However, the G Pro 3.0 Black uses a POM bottom housing for a deeper and more muted sound, in contrast to the Hyacinth V2's nylon bottom housing that produces a fuller and rounder sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the G Pro 3.0 Black's clear polycarbonate top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switch. The Hyacinth V2 also benefits from its polycarbonate housing for those looking to enhance their typing experience with RGB lighting. While both switches offer a unique sound profile based on their respective housing materials, the G Pro 3.0 Black's focus on a clacky and high-pitched sound contrasts with the Hyacinth V2's sharper and crisper sound. This difference in sound profile can cater to different preferences depending on the user's typing style and desired sound experience.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 will ultimately come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. The split between the top and bottom housing materials in each switch allows for a combination of characteristics that contribute to the overall typing experience. Whether you prefer a clacky sound with a deeper bottom housing like the G Pro 3.0 Black, or a sharper sound with a fuller bottom housing like the Hyacinth V2, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. Ultimately, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either option, with slight variations in sound profile based on the housing materials used.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it ideal for individuals who like a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. While the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches differ, both options offer a smooth linear feel. Ultimately, the choice between the G Pro 3.0 Black and the Hyacinth V2 will depend on individual preferences for typing pressure and keypress feedback.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch clocks in at 3.5 mm. In this comparison, the Hyacinth V2 has a shorter travel distance, providing a quicker response time which is favored by many gamers. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial keypress feel. Ultimately, both switches offer a different typing experience based on their travel distance, so choosing between them would depend on individual preferences - whether you prioritize speed and responsiveness or a more tactile typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Black for $2.77.
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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is best described as clacky and somewhat subdued, providing a sharp and snappy sound profile that is not overly loud. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch is also characterized as clacky, offering a resonant and satisfying acoustic experience with a distinct deep 'clack' sound in every keystroke. Both switches deliver a unique auditory experience that caters to different preferences, with the G Pro 3.0 Black being more subdued while the Hyacinth V2 offers a deeper and more pronounced sound.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 are described as creamy and silky, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience that is highly satisfying. The G Pro 3.0 Black also has a subtle feel, offering a gentle resistance and light typing feel suitable for shared spaces. In contrast, the Hyacinth V2 is further characterized as frictionless, polished, and snappy, enhancing the smoothness of the typing feel with minimal resistance and a fluid key travel experience. Both switches excel in providing a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, with the Hyacinth V2 offering additional features for those who prefer a more responsive and polished feel.
Overall, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switches offer unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. While the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a more subdued sound profile and a balanced medium-heavy feel, the Hyacinth V2 stands out with its deep 'clack' sound and additional features like frictionless and polished feel. Whether you prefer a sharp and snappy sound or a resonant and buttery feel, both switches offer premium quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with a balanced actuation and bottom-out force, opt for the G Pro 3.0 Black. It offers a medium-high pitch sound profile that falls between clacky and subdued. Additionally, if you enjoy a creamy feel with a subtle resistance, this switch could be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a crisp top-out sound and a resonant 'clacky' acoustic experience, the Hyacinth V2 is your go-to option. With a medium-light bottom-out force and a focus on a silky, frictionless typing feel, this switch delivers a unique blend of sound and performance that appeals to those seeking depth in auditory feedback. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for typing feel, sound profile, and overall typing experience.
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