TTC Gold Red vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Red and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Gold Red is a linear switch known for its buttery smooth typing experience and light-medium resistance, providing a subtle and polished feel with a snappy sound profile. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2 stands out for its long stem pole and distinctive deep 'clack', offering a crisp top-out sound and a satisfying acoustic experience. While the Gold Red is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Neutral', the Hyacinth V2 is described as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', and 'Frictionless'. Both switches have their own merits and appeal, making it a matter of personal preference when choosing between them. 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
50g
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 Red and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 share many similarities in terms of using polycarbonate for the top housing. Both switches benefit from the sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile that polycarbonate provides. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. While both switches use polycarbonate for the top housing, they differ in their bottom housing material.
The TTC Gold Red utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate top housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that enhances the typing experience. In contrast, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 also features a nylon bottom housing, providing similar qualities in terms of sound profile and typing experience. Both switches benefit from the properties of nylon in the bottom housing, although the impact may vary slightly depending on other design factors.
When looking at how the housing materials of the Gold Red and Hyacinth V2 are distributed within each switch, it's important to consider the impact of each material on the typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing, whether polycarbonate or nylon, will have a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is fully pressed. Conversely, the qualities of the top housing, predominantly polycarbonate in both cases, will have a more noticeable effect on the sound when the key is released. By understanding the distribution of housing materials within these switches, users can better appreciate how each material contributes to the overall typing experience.
Weight
The TTC Gold Red linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Gold Red requires 50 grams, while the Hyacinth V2 requires 52 grams, making the latter slightly heavier as well in this aspect. The Gold Red provides a lighter typing experience, which is great for extended use, while the Hyacinth V2 offers a slightly stronger push feel, ideal for those looking for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable options depending on individual preferences for typing or gaming purposes.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with 4.0 mm being more standard and 3.5 mm on the shallower end. Gamers may prefer the Hyacinth V2 for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more satisfying key press may favor the Gold Red with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red 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 Red 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 Red linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile that provides a deep and satisfying auditory experience. It also has a neutral sound that is suitable for various environments and preferences. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch is described as clacky, producing a sharp and percussive sound when pressed. This switch stands out for its distinctive deep 'clack' that adds a resonant and satisfying acoustic feedback to the typing experience. While both switches offer different sound profiles, the choice between them ultimately depends on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Red linear switch provides a mild and silky typing experience with subtle resistance and a polished finish. These qualities result in a smooth and refined typing feel that is approachable and comfortable for a wide range of users. Conversely, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch offers a creamy and frictionless typing experience, characterized by smooth and effortless key presses. With a polished and silky finish, this switch enhances the overall smoothness of typing and minimizes any sense of resistance or friction. Both switches excel in providing a comfortable and enjoyable typing feel, catering to different preferences for typing experience.
Overall, while the TTC Gold Red and Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switches offer distinct sound and feel characteristics, they both aim to provide a satisfying typing experience for users. The Gold Red delivers a thocky and low-pitched sound with a mild and silky feel, while the Hyacinth V2 offers a clacky sound with a creamy and frictionless typing experience. Choosing between these switches would depend on whether you prefer a deeper and more resonant sound like the Gold Red or a sharp and percussive sound like the Hyacinth V2, as well as the level of smoothness and resistance you desire in your typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance and are sure to provide a pleasant typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a snappy sound profile, the Gold Red may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a linear switch that offers a crisp top-out sound in every stroke, with a deep 'clack' that provides a resonant and satisfying acoustic experience, then the Hyacinth V2 might be more appealing to you. Both switches have their unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style.
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