TTC Gold Brown vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch to the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, it becomes evident that each switch offers unique characteristics to cater to different preferences. The Gold Browns are known for their well-balanced nature, offering a satisfying bump with a moderate weightiness while providing a softer sound profile. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2 stands out for its crisp top-out sound and deep 'clack', providing a resonant and satisfying auditory experience for keyboard enthusiasts. While the Gold Browns are described as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Buttery', the Hyacinth V2 is labeled as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', and 'Snappy'. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience. 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Single-stage 22mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 share many similarities in terms of their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches use polycarbonate as their top housing material, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, both switches benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate, especially when RGB lighting is used. This common material choice ensures that users can expect similar sound and visual effects from both switches.
However, where the two switches differ is in their choice of bottom housing material. The Gold Brown features a nylon bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. This material absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switch. In contrast, the Hyacinth V2 also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, offering similar sound characteristics to the Gold Brown. This shared bottom housing material ensures that both switches provide a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
In terms of overall performance, the choice of housing materials in both switches plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and typing experience. The split between the bottom and top housing materials impacts different aspects of the typing feel: the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Both switches provide a unique combination of materials that work together to deliver a satisfying typing experience, with the differences in top and bottom housing materials contributing to distinct sound profiles.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, we can see that the Gold Brown has a slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force compared to the Hyacinth V2. The Gold Brown requires 55 grams to actuate and 63 grams to bottom out, while the Hyacinth V2 needs 45 grams to actuate and 52 grams to bottom out. This makes the Hyacinth V2 a lighter option overall. The actuation force of the Gold Brown provides a more substantial typing experience compared to the lighter touch of the Hyacinth V2. Those who prefer a stronger push may lean towards the Gold Brown, while individuals looking for a lighter typing feel may opt for the Hyacinth V2. Both switches offer a medium or medium-light force respectively, providing a tactile typing experience for users.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 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. The Gold Brown's travel distance is more traditional and offers a bit more depth when pressing down on the key, which some users may prefer for a more substantial feel. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2's shorter travel distance may appeal to those looking for quicker response times, such as gamers. Overall, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown for $3.28.
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
In terms of sound, the TTC Gold Brown switch offers a more neutral sound profile, suitable for various environments and user preferences. The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2, on the other hand, provides a distinctively clacky sound that is sharp and percussive, enhancing the auditory feedback for users who enjoy a more pronounced sound experience. It's important to note that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard case and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Brown switch is described as mild, buttery, accented, and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with a smooth and uniform keystroke sensation. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 provides a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience, emphasizing smoothness and responsiveness in each keystroke. Users who prefer a softer, more seamless typing feel may lean towards the Gold Brown, while those who enjoy a more fluid and responsive typing experience may favor the Hyacinth V2.
Overall, when considering the subjective qualities of the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, it becomes apparent that they cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Gold Brown offers a more balanced and approachable sound and feel, while the Hyacinth V2 stands out for its crisp, clacky sound and creamy, frictionless feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Both switches provide quality performance in their respective categories, ensuring that users will receive satisfying results no matter their choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a balanced typing experience with a slight bump and moderate weightiness, the Gold Brown is the way to go. This switch offers a softer sound profile that is not completely silent, providing a pleasant typing experience for various settings. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-light bottom out force and are looking for a linear switch with a deep, clacky sound profile that offers a crisp top-out sound in each keystroke, the Hyacinth V2 is the ideal choice. This switch stands out for its resonant and satisfying acoustic feedback, catering to enthusiasts seeking depth in their keyboard's auditory experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for sound, feel, and typing style, as both switches offer unique characteristics to enhance your overall typing experience.
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