TTC Gold Silver vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U

Overview

When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch, the choice between the TTC Gold Silver and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U offers a compelling contrast in typing experiences. The TTC Gold Silver is celebrated for its rapid responsiveness and ease of use, characterized by a short travel distance that allows for a solid bottom-out feeling with a smooth keystroke journey. Its thocky, low-pitched sound signature adds a comforting resonance, making it ideal for gamers and typists who prioritize speed and precision. In contrast, the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U appeals to those who relish a more traditional typing experience, featuring a longer travel distance of 3.9mm and a spring designed for added bounciness. Crafted from nylon, the V2U delivers a softer, bassier sound that merges nostalgia with modern aesthetics, creating a unique auditory feedback. While both switches provide polished and silky feedback, their distinct features cater to different preferences—speed versus nostalgia. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

TTC Gold Silver Linear

HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U Linear

$6.11

$2.90 per 10

$3.50

$2.91 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

Both the TTC Gold Silver and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which leads to remarkably similar acoustic characteristics between the two switches. The choice of polycarbonate is significant in this context, as it is known for its stiffness and translucency. These properties contribute to a sound profile that is sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper than those using softer plastics. Moreover, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the effects of RGB lighting, providing a visually striking experience for those who enjoy illuminated keyboards. In both switches, this shared material creates a clear and resonant acoustic quality that is desirable for many users, particularly in gaming and typing scenarios where feedback is key.

In contrast, the bottom housing of both switches is made from nylon, which imparts a different character to their overall sound profiles. Nylon is acknowledged for its softer and more absorptive properties, which results in a deeper and fuller sound when typing. This material choice helps to balance the sharpness provided by the polycarbonate top housing, creating a more rounded sound profile during key presses. Consequently, while the top housing contributes to the tonal clarity during key releases, the nylon bottom housing plays a pivotal role in shaping the sound during bottom-out events. This dual-material design ensures that both switches deliver an engaging auditory experience that appeals to typists and gamers alike.

Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housings in both the TTC Gold Silver and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U creates a cohesive sound experience. Each contributes distinct auditory elements: the polycarbonate provides clarity and resonance upon release, while the nylon enhances depth and fullness on the key press. This thoughtful interplay between the materials means that, although the two switches share the same materials, they are engineered to provide a heightened audio experience. Users can expect similarly satisfying results in terms of auditory feedback, making both switches excellent choices for those prioritizing a rich and nuanced sound profile in their keyboard setup.

Weight

When comparing the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch, we find that both switches share the same actuation force of 45 grams, which means users will experience a similar level of resistance when pressing the keys to trigger a keystroke. However, the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U has a bottom out force of 52 grams, indicating that it requires a bit more force to fully depress the key, offering a heavier feel compared to the TTC Gold Silver, which has an unknown bottom out force. This variance means that while both switches provide a light and consistent actuation experience, the Hyacinth V2U will provide a slightly more substantial typing experience upon bottoming out. Therefore, those who prefer a lighter switch may gravitate towards the TTC Gold Silver, while those who enjoy a firmer feel might find the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U more appealing.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch, it is evident that the Gold Silver switch features a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Hyacinth V2U has a longer travel distance of 3.9 mm. As a result, those who favor quicker response times may find the Gold Silver more appealing due to its reduced travel distance, making it well-suited for gamers who prioritize speed. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2U's greater travel distance may cater to users who appreciate a more pronounced keypress, providing a satisfying depth that can enhance the typing experience. Overall, the choice between these two switches ultimately hinges on personal preference for responsiveness versus key depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch produces a thocky, low-pitched resonance that results in a deep, rich audio experience during typing. This signature gives a satisfying “thud” or soft “knock” sound with each keystroke, inviting users who appreciate auditory feedback. In contrast, the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U offers a more subdued auditory profile. While still classified as neutral, its sound signature is bassy and dampened, appealing to those who prefer a quieter typing environment. The sound characteristics of both switches can be further influenced by the keyboard’s build and keycap material choices, allowing for varied personal preference.

In terms of feel, both the Gold Silver and Hyacinth V2U switches share notable characteristics that enhance the typing experience. Both switches are polished and silky, ensuring a smooth and refined feel with minimal friction during keypresses. Users can expect a seamless and enjoyable typing experience from either switch. However, the Gold Silver's shortened travel leads to a decisive bottom-out action, while the V2U switch features a fuller travel distance, which might appeal to those who appreciate a more traditional typing experience. The mild and subtle nature of the Gold Silver’s feel may resonate with users looking for an approachable typing experience, whereas the additional bounciness from the V2U’s enhanced spring can create a slightly different dynamic during use.

In conclusion, while the TTC Gold Silver and HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switches differ in sound dynamics due to their distinctive profiles, they both ensure a polished and silky feel, leading to a refined typing experience. The Gold Silver leans towards a more pronounced auditory feedback with its thocky sound, while the Hyacinth V2U offers a quieter, bass-oriented sound signature. Choosing between them ultimately depends on personal preferences regarding sound and typing style; both switches are engineered to provide a welcoming and smooth typing experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the choice between the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prioritize responsiveness and a sense of speed, the TTC Gold Silver fits the bill perfectly with its rapid actuation and silky, polished feel, making it an excellent choice for gaming and fast typing tasks. The thocky, low-pitched sound profile adds an enjoyable auditory dimension to your experience, ideal if you enjoy that satisfying feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, if you lean towards a more traditional typing feel with a comfortable bounce, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U would be your go-to. Its fuller travel distance and medium-light bottom-out force, coupled with a subdued sound profile, create a harmonious typing experience that caters well to both casual and serious typists. Essentially, consider the Gold Silver if you want speed and agility, while you might choose the V2U for a balanced and classic typing experience that still feels modern.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Gold Silver Linear

$6.11

$2.90 per 10

Learn more

HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U Linear

$3.50

$2.91 per 10

Learn more