TTC Honey vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2
An in-depth look at the TTC Honey and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Honey and Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The TTC Honey is praised for its smooth and creamy feel, along with a deep and pleasant sound profile. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 stands out with its crisp top-out sound and distinctive 'clack', providing a satisfying acoustic experience. While the Honey is known for its subdued and buttery feel, the Hyacinth V2 offers a clacky and snappy typing experience. Both switches are categorized as frictionless and polished, making them appealing choices for enthusiasts. 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
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
25.5 mm lengthened spring
Spring
Single-stage 22mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Honey and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 both utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, both switches benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate, especially if RGB lighting is to be used. However, the difference comes in the bottom housing material, with the Honey using polycarbonate and the Hyacinth V2 using nylon. The nylon bottom housing of the Hyacinth V2 results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate.
In terms of sound profile, the polycarbonate top and bottom housings of the Honey are likely to result in a sharper and crisper sound when pressing down on the switch, while still having a resonant sound when releasing the key. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2's use of nylon in the bottom housing may provide a softer and more muted sound when typing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound experience. The split between housing materials showcases how different plastics can impact the overall sound and feel of a switch, with polycarbonate focusing on clarity and resonance, while nylon offers a deeper and more absorbing sound.
Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Honey and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 housing materials comes down to personal preference in sound profile. The Honey's polycarbonate housing may appeal to those who prefer a sharper and crisper typing experience, especially with the added benefit of RGB lighting enhancing the aesthetic. Conversely, the Hyacinth V2's nylon bottom housing may be preferred by users looking for a deeper and fuller sound, with a more muted sound profile overall. Both switches offer unique qualities based on their housing materials, providing distinct typing experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts to enjoy.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Honey linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch reveals some key differences. The Honey switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Hyacinth V2 has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel. Weight can impact typing comfort and endurance, with lighter switches being preferred for longer typing sessions and heavier switches offering a more solid push feel. Both switches provide similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, with the Honey being lighter and the Hyacinth V2 falling on the medium-light side of the spectrum. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to individual preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Honey linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, the Honey has a longer travel distance of 3.8 mm compared to the Hyacinth V2's travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those who prefer quicker response times. Gamers, in particular, may appreciate the shorter travel distances for faster key presses. However, individuals who prefer a more substantial feel when typing may lean towards the Honey switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of key press feedback and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Honey has an MSRP of $9.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey for $6.78.
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
The TTC Honey linear switch is characterized by a smooth and creamy feel, offering a pleasant typing experience with a subtle and buttery sensation. In contrast, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch boasts a unique long stem pole design that enhances the crisp top-out sound, providing a sharp and snappy typing experience with a blend of depth and resonance in its sound profile. When it comes to sound, the Honey switch produces a subdued sound, while the Hyacinth V2 switch offers a clacky sound signature. As for feel, both switches share characteristics such as creamy and frictionless sensations, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience. Overall, whether you choose the TTC Honey or the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2, you can expect a high-quality linear switch with excellent sound and feel options to suit your preferences as a keyboard enthusiast.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Honey linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force, smooth and creamy typing experience, and a subdued sound, the TTC Honey linear switch may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force, a distinctive deep 'clack' sound, and a seamless blend of sound and performance, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch could be the ideal option. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your desired typing experience.