Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, there are distinct features that set them apart. The G Pro 3.0 Silver is known for its lightning-fast responsiveness, shorter travel distance, and vibrant RGB lighting, making it an ideal choice for gamers looking for a competitive edge without breaking the bank. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2 stands out for its deep 'clack' sound, offering a crisp and satisfying auditory experience for enthusiasts seeking a 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Single-stage 22mm Korean spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 feature polycarbonate top housings, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing also allows for better RGB lighting effects due to its translucency. Despite their similarities in housing material, each switch may still offer a unique typing experience, as the top housing can affect the sound when releasing a key, adding a subtle difference in feedback between the two switches.
On the other hand, both switches also utilize nylon for their bottom housings. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its ability to absorb more sound than stiffer plastics. While the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Hyacinth V2 share this similar bottom housing material, the bottom housing of a switch typically has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel. This distinction in housing materials allows for a varied tactile experience between the two switches, despite sharing the softer nylon material.
Overall, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Hyacinth V2 may have comparable housing materials, the placement of these materials in the switch design can lead to unique typing experiences. The top housing's influence on the sound when releasing a key contrasts with the bottom housing's impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, showcasing how subtle differences in housing materials can affect typing feedback. However, users can expect similar sound profiles characterized by sharpness, higher pitch, and crispness due to the shared use of polycarbonate in the top housings of both switches.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch differ slightly. The G Pro 3.0 Silver has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, whereas the Hyacinth V2 has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 52 grams with the same actuation force of 45 grams. The G Pro 3.0 Silver provides a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the Hyacinth V2 offers a slightly stronger push feel for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience, whether it be lighter or slightly heavier keypresses.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear 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, with the G Pro being slightly shorter than the Hyacinth. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the G Pro with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing may lean towards the Hyacinth with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of travel distance, so users can expect comparable results from either option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver has an MSRP of $3.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Silver for $3.27.
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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switch is known for its bassy, low-pitched, and thocky characteristics, providing a deep and rich sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 switch is described as clacky, offering a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. Depending on your preference for sound, the G Pro 3.0 Silver will give you a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, while the Hyacinth V2 will provide a crisp, bright, and percussive sound.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, both the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Hyacinth V2 are described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience. Additionally, the Hyacinth V2 is noted for being frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy, further enhancing the typing feel with smooth key travel, reduced friction, and responsiveness. With both switches sharing similar descriptions in terms of feel, you can expect a seamless and effortless typing sensation with either option.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 switches offer unique sound profiles and a smooth, buttery typing experience. While the G Pro 3.0 Silver provides a deeper and richer sound with its bassy characteristics, the Hyacinth V2 excels in offering a crisp and bright sound. Both switches offer a creamy typing experience, ensuring a satisfying feel during your typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel, as both options deliver high-quality performance for keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switches, consider the following guidelines. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option that offers lightning-fast responsiveness and vibrant RGB lighting for an ultimate gaming experience, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch with its 50g bottom out force may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a satisfying acoustic experience with a distinctive 'clack' sound and a seamless blend of sound and performance, the Hyacinth V2 switch with its 52g bottom out force would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your specific needs and desires for your keyboard switch. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and gaming requirements to elevate your overall keyboard experience.