TTC Gold Red vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a multitude of options to choose from, each offering unique benefits suited to different preferences. The TTC Gold Red is a linear switch renowned for its buttery smooth typing experience and light-medium resistance, providing a satisfying feel with a modestly snappy sound profile. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch boasts a fuller travel distance of 3.9mm, ideal for those seeking a more traditional typing experience with added bounciness thanks to its 22mm spring. Crafted from nylon, the V2U offers a softer, bassier sound signature, combining the best of both old and new. While the Gold Red is characterized by its 'Thocky' and 'Low-pitched' qualities, the Hyacinth V2U is more 'Neutral' and 'Subdued'. Ultimately, the choice 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
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the TTC Gold Red and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate. This material is ideal for switches meant to incorporate RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for vibrant light displays. In terms of sound, the polycarbonate top housing contributes to a clear and resonant auditory experience for users of both keyboards.
On the other hand, the Gold Red and the Hyacinth V2U diverge in their choice of bottom housing material, with the Gold Red utilizing nylon for a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that feature a nylon bottom housing. This contrast in bottom housing material between the two keyboards may offer users a different typing experience based on the sound and feel of bottoming out the keys.
Overall, while both the Gold Red and the Hyacinth V2U share similarities in their polycarbonate top housings, the distinction in bottom housing material may lead to variations in the typing experience for users. The Gold Red's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper sound profile, while the Hyacinth V2U's nylon bottom housing offers a fuller sound experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two keyboards may come down to individual preference in terms of sound and feel while typing.
Weight
Comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch reveals some differences in weight. The Gold Red has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Hyacinth V2U has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams. Both switches offer a relatively light typing experience, making them suitable for longer typing sessions. However, the slight difference in weight may make the Hyacinth V2U feel slightly more substantial to those who prefer a bit of resistance in their keystrokes. Ultimately, both switches provide a smooth linear feel, with the Gold Red being a bit lighter and the Hyacinth V2U offering a slightly heavier touch.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm. In this case, the Hyacinth V2U has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Gold Red. While the 0.1 mm may seem like a small difference, it can still affect the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers who prefer faster response times may lean towards the Hyacinth V2U, while those who prefer a slightly more in-depth feel may opt for the Gold Red. Both switches offer a modern travel distance that falls within the range of what is popular in the market today. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and what feels most comfortable to the user.
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 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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Gold Red linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile that adds a touch of personality to your typing experience. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch delivers a more subdued and neutral sound signature, with a softer, bassier tone due to its nylon construction. Both switches are described as neutral, making them suitable for various environments and user preferences. When considering sound, the Gold Red may provide a snappier and more defined typing sound, while the Hyacinth V2U offers a mellower and more subtle auditory experience.
In terms of feel, both the Gold Red and the Hyacinth V2U switches are polished and silky, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with reduced friction and minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The Gold Red switch is also described as mild, subtle, and polished, offering a gentle typing experience that falls in a safe, middle-ground zone. Similarly, the Hyacinth V2U switch features a silky and polished feel, enhancing the overall smoothness of typing with a refined finish. These qualities suggest that users can expect a comfortable and polished typing experience with either switch, ensuring a pleasant and effortless feel during extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, while the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch have their unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, they both offer a smooth and polished typing experience. The Gold Red may cater to those seeking a snappier sound profile with a touch of personality, while the Hyacinth V2U provides a softer, bassier sound signature with a fuller travel distance for a nod to traditional typing experiences. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel, but users can expect similar levels of smoothness and quality performance from both options.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch, you should consider the characteristics that best suit your typing preferences and needs. If you prefer a light typing experience with a snappy sound profile, the Gold Red switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a fuller travel distance and a softer, bassier sound signature, the Hyacinth V2U switch could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound.
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