HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 vs. Gateron Ink Black V2
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Gateron Ink Black V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Gateron Ink Black V2 both stand out as top contenders in the linear switch category. The Hyacinth V2 is praised for its crisp top-out sound and deep 'clack', providing enthusiasts with a satisfying auditory experience that seamlessly blends sound and performance. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 is known for its smooth downstroke and rich clack, making it a long-time community favorite for its low-pitched and bassy sound profile. Each switch offers unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in keyboard 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
60g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 22mm Korean spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Gateron Ink Black V2 both have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Hyacinth V2 features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper and crisper sound. This material is also translucent, making it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 uses a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, resulting in a high-pitched yet not overly sharp sound that is often described as clacky. While both materials offer distinct sound profiles, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch.
In terms of their bottom housing materials, the Hyacinth V2 utilizes nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. Nylon is known for absorbing more sound, creating a duller and rounder tone. Similarly, the Gateron Ink Black V2 features the same proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing, contributing to its pointed and high-pitched sound profile. Though the specific qualities may differ slightly, both bottom housing materials aim to enhance the overall sound of the switch and provide users with a unique auditory experience.
While the top and bottom housings of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Gateron Ink Black V2 may differ, each housing material plays a significant role in determining the overall sound and feel of the switch. When typing on these switches, users will feel the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. Despite their differences in materials, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound or a high-pitched, clacky tone, both the Hyacinth V2 and the Ink Black V2 provide users with unique options for customizing their mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch to the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, it is evident that the Hyacinth V2 is lighter in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Hyacinth V2 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, while the Ink Black V2 has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams. This significant difference means that the Hyacinth V2 offers a softer and lighter typing experience compared to the more substantial and heavier feel of the Ink Black V2. Those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming may prefer the Hyacinth V2, while individuals who enjoy a stronger push for a more tactile typing experience may lean towards the Ink Black V2. In both cases, selecting a switch that matches one's preferred actuation and bottom out force will ensure a more comfortable and enjoyable typing experience.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it a shorter option compared to the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Hyacinth V2 can provide faster response times, which is ideal for gamers looking for quick keystrokes. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Ink Black V2 may offer a more satisfying key press with a deeper feeling. Both switches have their own advantages depending on individual preferences, with the Hyacinth V2 offering a quicker response and the Ink Black V2 providing a more pronounced key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for travel distance and key feel.
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 Gateron Ink Black V2 has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Black V2 for $7.24.
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
In terms of sound, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch is known for its clacky nature, providing a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch offers a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, with a hint of chirpiness that sets it apart. While the Hyacinth V2 focuses on a deep 'clack' for auditory feedback, the Ink Black V2 leans towards a smoother and richer tone. Ultimately, your choice of sound preference between the two switches would depend on whether you prefer a more traditional clack or a bass-heavy, mellow tone during key presses.
When it comes to feel, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch is praised for its creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience. With smooth and buttery keystrokes, reduced friction, and a refined finish, this switch offers a luxurious feel that enhances typing comfort. In comparison, the Gateron Ink Black V2 switch is described as mild and polished, providing a gentle typing experience with a smooth and refined finish. Both switches aim to minimize resistance and offer a pleasant typing feel, but the Hyacinth V2 stands out for its varied tactile qualities that cater to different preferences.
In conclusion, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch excels in providing a clacky and satisfying sound profile, paired with a luxurious and varied feel that includes creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy sensations. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch offers a low-pitched, bassy sound with a mild and polished feel that emphasizes smoothness and refinement. Depending on whether you prioritize sound characteristics or typing feel in your mechanical keyboard switch selection, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a distinctive clacky sound for a resonant typing experience, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smooth downstroke with a rich, low-pitched, bassy sound profile, then the Gateron Ink Black V2 would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your desired typing experience in terms of sound and feel. Whether you prefer the deep 'clack' of the Hyacinth V2 or the smooth, polished feel of the Ink Black V2, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Mentioned in this article
