Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U are standout options to explore. The G Pro 3.0 Black from Gateron is renowned for its premium quality at an affordable price, making it an enticing choice for those looking for a robust typing experience. With a heavier actuation and bottom-out force, this linear switch offers a medium-heavy feel and a medium-high pitch sound profile, perfect for users seeking a more substantial tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U provides a unique typing experience with its fuller travel distance and bounciness attributed to the 22mm spring. Crafted from nylon, these switches deliver a softer and bassier sound signature, offering a blend of traditional and modern typing experiences. Each switch has its own characteristics and appeal, catering to different preferences and typing styles. 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
3.90 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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a relatively high-pitched and clacky sound profile. In contrast, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper and more resonant sound. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the polycarbonate top housing of the Hyacinth V2U is known for its clear and distinct sound, especially when paired with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black's INK blend top housing provides a satisfying thin sound that is not overly sharp.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Black features a POM bottom housing that produces a deeper and muted sound profile. In comparison, the Hyacinth V2U utilizes a nylon bottom housing that elicits a fuller and rounder sound. The use of POM in the G Pro 3.0 Black's bottom housing creates a unique typing experience with its deeper sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the Hyacinth V2U absorbs more sound to create a duller tone.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U offer different sound profiles and typing experiences. While the G Pro 3.0 Black combines an INK blend top housing with a POM bottom housing to create a satisfying and unique sound, the Hyacinth V2U utilizes a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing for a sharper and fuller sound. Despite their differences, both switches showcase the impact of housing materials on sound quality and typing feel, providing users with varying experiences based on their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch, we see that the G Pro has a heavier feel compared to the Hyacinth V2U. The G Pro has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, falling into the medium-heavy category. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2U has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it a medium-light switch. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the G Pro due to its heavier forces, while those who enjoy a lighter touch may lean towards the Hyacinth V2U. Overall, the weight of a switch is a significant factor to consider based on individual preferences for typing or gaming needs.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.9 mm. While the difference in travel distance between the two switches may seem negligible, it can still have an impact on the overall typing or gaming experience. If you prefer a slightly shallower keypress, the Hyacinth V2U may be the better option for you due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, if you prefer a bit more depth and tactility, the G Pro 3.0 Black with its slightly longer travel distance may be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and what feels more comfortable for the individual user.
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 V2U 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 V2U 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 known for its clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch offers a more neutral sound, with a moderate actuation force requirement and a dampened sound signature. Both switches provide a subdued sound compared to others, with the Hyacinth V2U having a softer, bassier sound due to its nylon construction.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switch is lauded for its creamy and silky typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation when typing. The Hyacinth V2U switch, on the other hand, provides a polished and silky typing experience, minimising resistance and delivering smooth key travel. Both switches promise a refined and smooth typing experience, making them suitable for prolonged typing sessions.
In conclusion, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switches have their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, they both offer a premium typing experience. The G Pro 3.0 Black excels in providing a heavier actuation force and a clacky sound, while the Hyacinth V2U offers a fuller travel distance and a more traditional typing experience. Ultimately, both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience that caters to different preferences, ensuring that users will achieve similar high-quality results regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch, consider the following guidelines based on your preferences. If you prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with a balanced feel and a medium-high pitch sound, the G Pro 3.0 Black may be the ideal choice for you. Additionally, if you enjoy a clacky sound profile and a creamy, silky typing feel, this switch could enhance your typing sessions. On the other hand, if you seek a medium-light typing experience with a softer, bassier sound signature, the Hyacinth V2U might be more suitable. With a fuller travel distance and a 22mm spring for added bounciness, this switch offers a blend of traditional and modern features. Moreover, if you appreciate a neutral sound profile and a polished, silky typing feel, the Hyacinth V2U could provide a smooth and refined typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and overall typing experience.
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