KTT Grapefruit vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Grapefruit linear switch with the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, it's clear that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Grapefruit is praised for its soft and light feel, combined with a "baritone" sound profile, making it a great choice for those who prefer a low-pitched and neutral typing experience. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2 stands out for its crisp top-out sound and deep 'clack', appealing to enthusiasts looking for a blend of performance and satisfying auditory feedback. 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
53g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.90 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 KTT Grapefruit and Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 both feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which results in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed to use RGB lighting. However, while both switches have polycarbonate top housings that offer similar sound profiles, the differences lie in their bottom housings.
The Grapefruit's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Hyacinth V2's nylon bottom housing. The softer plastic of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound that is felt when typing on the switch. This difference in bottom housing material can affect the overall typing experience and sound feel of each switch. Despite both switches using nylon for their bottom housings, the nuances in sound and feel may vary between the two models.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the KTT Grapefruit and Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 highlight the importance of both the top and bottom housings in determining the sound profile and typing experience of a switch. While both switches share the use of polycarbonate for their top housings, the contrasting nylon bottom housings offer unique sound qualities that can affect how each switch feels and sounds when typing. Understanding the impact of housing materials on switch performance can help users make informed decisions based on their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, it is evident that both switches have a similar actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Grapefruit has a slightly higher bottom out force of 53 grams compared to the Hyacinth V2's 52 grams. This makes the Grapefruit slightly heavier overall. The difference in bottom out force is minimal and would likely not be noticeable to most users. Both switches fall into the medium-light category, making them suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of the desired level of resistance in typing.
Travel distance
The KTT Grapefruit linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. With the Grapefruit having a slightly longer travel distance, users may feel a bit more feedback when pressing down on the key compared to the Hyacinth V2. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may lean towards the Hyacinth V2 with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing may prefer the Grapefruit. Both switches offer a different typing experience, but ultimately it comes down to personal preference when deciding which travel distance is more suitable for individual needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The KTT Grapefruit comes in at $3.41 per 10 switches.
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 KTT Grapefruit linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral tone, providing a bass-heavy and mellow sound suitable for various settings. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and percussive noise that is crisp and bright. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences, with the Grapefruit focusing on a deeper, more subtle sound while the Hyacinth V2 emphasizes a lively and distinct clack.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Grapefruit switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and sleek key travel. In contrast, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 is known for its creamy and frictionless feel, providing a buttery and effortless typing sensation that glides smoothly across the keys. Additionally, the Hyacinth V2 is noted for its silky and snappy characteristics, enhancing responsiveness and overall typing liveliness. While both switches prioritize a smooth typing experience, the Grapefruit emphasizes a polished finish, while the Hyacinth V2 highlights a creamy and frictionless glide.
In conclusion, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch offer unique characteristics in terms of both sound and feel. The Grapefruit showcases a low-pitched and neutral sound profile with a polished typing experience, while the Hyacinth V2 features a clacky sound and a creamy, frictionless feel. Depending on preference, users can choose between a softer, bass-heavy sound with smooth key travel or a sharp, percussive noise with a buttery glide and enhanced responsiveness. Ultimately, both switches provide high-quality options for enthusiasts seeking different auditory and tactile experiences in their mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you appreciate a low-pitched and neutral sound profile with a polished feel, the Grapefruit may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clacky sound with a creamy, frictionless, and snappy feel, the Hyacinth V2 might be more up your alley. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific typing experience you desire, whether it be a soft and light feel with a deep sound profile or a crisp top-out sound with a resonant 'clack'. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose accordingly based on your individual preferences for sound and feel.
Mentioned in this article
