KTT Glimp vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Glimp and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 mechanical keyboard switches, we see two distinct options that cater to different preferences. The Glimp switch is praised for its medium-light feel that strikes a balance between typing experience and resistance, offering tactile feedback and a satisfying typing feel with a fairly clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2 stands out for its linear design with a long stem pole, providing a crisp top-out sound and a distinctive deep 'clack' for a resonant auditory experience. While the Glimp switch is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Mild', and 'Neutral', the Hyacinth V2 is described as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', 'Polished', 'Silky', and 'Snappy'. Each switch has its unique qualities, making them suited for different 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
18mm spring
Spring
Single-stage 22mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The KTT Glimp and Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting capabilities due to its translucency. However, while both switches share this top housing material, they differ in their bottom housings. The Glimp utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Hyacinth V2 also incorporates a nylon bottom housing, showcasing a similar sound profile to the Glimp.
Despite their differences in bottom housing material, both the KTT Glimp and Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 benefit from the unique qualities each material brings to the switch. The split between the top and bottom housings allows for a customized typing experience. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the softer nylon bottom housing will be felt, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing material, in this case polycarbonate, will influence the sound when releasing a key. This showcases how the combination of materials in a switch can affect the typing experience in various ways.
In conclusion, while the KTT Glimp and Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 share a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper sound profile and the nylon bottom housing for a fuller sound, they offer a unique typing experience due to the split between the top and bottom housing materials. The Glimp's stiffer polycarbonate top housing may provide a slightly different sound profile compared to the Hyacinth V2, ultimately catering to individual preferences in terms of sound and feel. Both switches showcase the importance of housing materials in achieving the desired typing experience, highlighting the impact of material choice on overall performance.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, it is evident that both switches fall within a similar weight category, with the Glimp being slightly lighter in actuation force at 43 grams compared to the Hyacinth V2 at 45 grams. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Glimp requires 53 grams, which is slightly heavier than the 52 grams needed for the Hyacinth V2. Both switches offer a medium-light typing experience, making them suitable for those who prefer a balance between responsiveness and comfort during extended typing sessions. Overall, while there is a slight difference in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches, users can expect similar results in terms of typing experience and performance.
Travel distance
The KTT Glimp linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm, making it slightly longer than the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.5mm. The difference may seem minor, but it can have an impact on how the keys feel when typing or gaming. The longer travel distance of the Glimp may provide a more tactile feedback and a greater sense of key travel, which some users may prefer for a more traditional typing experience. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Hyacinth V2 may result in a quicker response time and can be favored by gamers looking for faster key actuation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and what feels more comfortable to the individual user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Glimp has an MSRP of $3.84 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glimp for $3.45.
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, both the KTT Glimp and Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 switches are described as having a "clacky" sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This means that users can expect a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory experience from both switches. The Glimp offers a fairly clacky sound profile, adding an enjoyable element to typing sessions, while the Hyacinth V2's long stem pole ensures a crisp top-out sound in every stroke, enhancing the overall typing experience with a deep 'clack' that offers a resonant and satisfying acoustic feedback. However, the actual sound of the switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, both the Glimp and Hyacinth V2 switches offer a smooth and buttery typing experience, described as "creamy." This means users can expect a silky sensation when typing on either switch, with their fingers effortlessly gliding across the keys. The Glimp switch falls under the category of "creamy" and "mild," providing a gentle typing experience suitable for most users, while the Hyacinth V2 offers a variety of descriptors such as "creamy," "frictionless," "polished," "silky," and "snappy," all contributing to an exceptionally smooth and responsive typing feel with minimized resistance and friction during key presses. These qualities make both switches a top choice for users seeking a comfortable and seamless typing experience.
In conclusion, both the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch offer excellent sound profiles and tactile feedback for users looking to enhance their typing experience. While the Glimp switch provides a satisfying and responsive typing feel with a fairly clacky sound profile, the Hyacinth V2 stands out for its deep 'clack' top-out sound and a seamless blend of sound and performance. Users can expect similar results in terms of both sound and feel when using either switch, making them both solid choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, consider your preference for tactile feedback and sound profile. If you value a clacky sound and a medium-light actuation force, the Glimp switch may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you seek a switch with a deep 'clack' and a seamless blend of sound and performance, the Hyacinth V2 switch is a great option to explore. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing experience preferences, whether you prioritize a creamy and mild feel or a creamy and frictionless sensation. Choose wisely based on what will enhance your overall typing enjoyment.
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