KTT Glimp vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Glimp and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U mechanical keyboard switches, we find two distinct options that cater to different preferences. The Glimp switch stands out for its medium-light feel, providing a satisfying typing experience with tactile feedback and a comfortable actuation force. Known for its clacky sound profile, the Glimp switch offers a balance of responsiveness and smoothness, making it an appealing choice for those who enjoy a more traditional typing feel. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2U switch offers a fuller travel distance of 3.9mm and a 22mm spring for added bounciness, catering to those who prefer a softer, bassier sound signature. While the Glimp switch is categorized as clacky, creamy, mild, neutral, the Hyacinth V2U switch falls into neutral, polished, silky, subdued categories. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing style. 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
3.90 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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the KTT Glimp and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The rigidity of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize sound quality in their mechanical keyboards. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting effects to shine through, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the keyboard.
However, where the two keyboards differ is in their choice of bottom housing material. The Glimp utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the more resonant sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2U also features a nylon bottom housing, offering similar sound characteristics to the Glimp in terms of depth and fullness.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Glimp and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. While both keyboards feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and crisp sound, the difference in bottom housing materials may lead to variations in sound quality and feel. Whether you prefer a clearer and more resonant sound or a deeper and fuller sound, both keyboards offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch, it is evident that both switches fall into the medium-light category. The Glimp has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Hyacinth V2U has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams. This slight difference indicates that the Hyacinth V2U requires slightly more force to trigger a keystroke but less force to bottom out compared to the Glimp. Both switches offer a balance between a lighter typing experience for extended periods of use and a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Glimp linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm. The Glimp has a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a bit more cushion and depth when typing compared to the Hyacinth V2U. However, the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, so the typing experience would likely be quite similar. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Glimp being slightly on the longer side and the Hyacinth V2U being slightly on the shorter side. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would come down to personal preference for typing comfort and responsiveness.
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 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 KTT Glimp linear switch is best known for its clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch offers a more subdued sound signature, producing a dampened sound that is softer and bassier. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and choice of keycaps.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Glimp switch is described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience that feels like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. In contrast, the Hyacinth V2U switch is polished, providing a sleek and refined typing feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches offer a gentle typing experience, but the Glimp switch leans towards a more luxurious and silky sensation, while the Hyacinth V2U switch focuses on a polished and refined typing experience.
Overall, the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Glimp switch excels in providing a satisfying and responsive typing feel with a fairly clacky sound profile, while the Hyacinth V2U switch focuses on a fuller travel distance and a softer, bassier sound signature. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer distinct experiences that cater to different typing styles and preferences. Ultimately, whether you choose the Glimp or the Hyacinth V2U, you can expect a high-quality typing experience with similar results due to their linear switch design.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience. If you value a medium-light switch with tactile feedback, a clacky sound profile, and a comfortable actuation force, then the Glimp switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a fuller travel distance, a bouncier feel with a 22mm spring, and a softer, bassier sound signature, then the Hyacinth V2U switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision boils down to your personal typing preferences and the specific characteristics you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.