TTC Gold Silver vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Silver and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two notable options to consider are the TTC Gold Silver and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2, both linear switches with their own unique characteristics. The TTC Gold Silver is renowned for its rapid responsiveness, offering a shortened travel that culminates in a solid bottom-out with each keystroke. This switch is known for its smooth journey from press to bottom-out, creating a seamless blend of speed and sound. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 stands out for its crisp top-out sound, providing enthusiasts with a deep 'clack' that enhances the auditory experience of typing. Each switch has its own set of qualities that make it appealing, but ultimately, the best choice will depend on your personal 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 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 Silver and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, making it resonate more clearly. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switches. Therefore, both switches will likely deliver a similar sound experience and visual effect with their polycarbonate top housing.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Gold Silver uses nylon while the Hyacinth V2 also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder and duller sound. This difference in bottom housing material may impact the overall sound experience of the switches, with the nylon bottom housing potentially providing a different tactile feedback compared to the polycarbonate top housing.
It is important to note that the bottom housing material of a switch tends to have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing material influences the sound when a key is released. Therefore, the choice of material for the top and bottom housing in both the Gold Silver and the Hyacinth V2 plays a significant role in the overall sound profile and tactile feedback of the switches. Ultimately, while both switches share a polycarbonate top housing, the different bottom housing materials may result in varying sound experiences for typists and keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
Both the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch have an actuation force of 45 grams, meaning that they both require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Gold Silver has an unknown value while the Hyacinth V2 has a bottom out force of 52 grams, which is considered to be medium-light. The difference in bottom out force suggests that the Hyacinth V2 may provide a slightly more substantial typing experience compared to the Gold Silver. Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing a switch, as a lighter switch may be more ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming, while a heavier switch can provide a stronger push feel for those seeking a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar feeling when pressed down on a key, as the distance traveled from the top to the bottom is identical. Users can expect consistent results in terms of key press feel and overall typing experience with either switch. In terms of comparing and contrasting, there is no distinction in travel distance between the two switches as they are equal in this aspect. Both switches offer a smooth and consistent typing experience with a travel distance of 3.5 mm.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Silver 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 Silver 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
Overall, both the TTC Gold Silver and Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switches offer unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Gold Silver switch provides a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, paired with a polished and silky feel for a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2 switch is known for its clacky sound and creamy, frictionless feel, enhancing the sensation of effortlessly gliding across the keys. Both switches excel in their respective qualities, with the Gold Silver emphasizing speed, sound, and fluidity, while the Hyacinth V2 stands out for its deep clack sound and smooth typing experience. Depending on whether you prefer a deeper, richer sound or a sharp and snappy sound, as well as a polished or creamy feel, you can achieve similar results with either switch based on your individual preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer a seamless blend of sound and performance, providing an enjoyable typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, consider the following guidelines. Choose the TTC Gold Silver if you prioritize rapid responsiveness, smooth keystrokes, and a thocky, low-pitched, and neutral sound profile. The Gold Silver offers a polished, silky, mild, and subtle typing experience. On the other hand, opt for the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 if you desire a crisp top-out sound, a clacky sound profile, and a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your preference for speed, sound, and feel in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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