TTC Gold Brown Pro vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the TTC Gold Brown Pro, a tactile switch, and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2, a linear switch. The Gold Brown Pro offers a subtle and nuanced tactile feedback, allowing typists to stay focused on their tasks with minimal distraction. In contrast, the Hyacinth V2 boasts a crisp top-out sound and resonant 'clack', providing a satisfying auditory experience for keyboard enthusiasts. While the Gold Brown Pro is known for its understated tactility and low sound profile, the Hyacinth V2 impresses with its 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Single-stage 22mm Korean spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. The use of polycarbonate in the housings contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic, which results in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it especially useful for switches designed for RGB lighting. As a result, both switches will likely produce similar sound profiles and aesthetics when it comes to their top housings.
However, the key point of differentiation between the two switches lies in their bottom housings. The Gold Brown Pro uses nylon for its bottom housing, while the Hyacinth V2 also utilizes nylon for this component. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Therefore, despite their similar top housings, the bottom housings of the Gold Brown Pro and the Hyacinth V2 will likely provide distinct typing experiences due to the properties of nylon.
Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings in the Gold Brown Pro and the Hyacinth V2 respectively offers a unique typing experience for each switch. While the top housings contribute to the sound when pressing and releasing a key, the bottom housings play a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel. This split in housing materials allows for a varied sound profile and typing sensation, making each switch distinct in its own right. Therefore, individuals looking for a specific typing experience may find that the choice between the Gold Brown Pro and the Hyacinth V2 ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, both have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Gold Brown Pro does not have a specified bottom out force, while the Hyacinth V2 has a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it slightly heavier. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gold Brown Pro may be the more suitable option, as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2 may be preferred by those who enjoy a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. In terms of actuation force, users can expect similar results from both switches, with the main difference lying in the bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Hyacinth V2 has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Gold Brown Pro. This means that the Hyacinth V2 will provide a quicker response time due to the shorter distance traveled when the key is pressed. On the other hand, the Gold Brown Pro offers a bit more depth in its travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feeling when typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown Pro for $2.90.
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 TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch is best described as thocky, low-pitched, and neutral, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying noise that is not too loud or sharp. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch is recognized for its clacky sound, which is sharp, snappy, and percussive, giving a distinct auditory feedback to each keystroke. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Gold Brown Pro being more subdued and the Hyacinth V2 offering a more pronounced acoustical experience.
Moving on to feel, the Gold Brown Pro switch is described as polished, silky, mild, subtle, and stepped. This means it provides a smooth, refined typing experience with a gentle tactile feedback that is not too pronounced. In comparison, the Hyacinth V2 switch is characterized as creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy, offering a buttery smooth typing feel with minimal resistance and a responsive spring action. While both switches offer a smooth typing experience, the Gold Brown Pro leans towards a gentler feel, while the Hyacinth V2 provides a more lively and responsive touch.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch each bring their own set of unique qualities to the table. The Gold Brown Pro excels in providing a subtle, low-profile tactile feedback with a neutral sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a quiet and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2 stands out for its crisp, clacky sound and creamy, frictionless feel, appealing to users seeking a more pronounced auditory feedback and snappy key response. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer distinct advantages that can elevate the typing experience for newcomers to the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch that provides subtle feedback and a quiet typing experience, the TTC Gold Brown Pro would be the ideal choice for you. Its gentle tactile bump and subdued sound profile make it perfect for staying focused without distractions. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a crisp top-out sound and a satisfying acoustic experience, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 would be the recommended option. Its unique deep 'clack' sound and smooth typing experience cater to those who seek a blend of performance and auditory feedback. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a gentle tactile feel or a resonant sound profile in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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