HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 vs. Gateron Ink Red
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Gateron Ink Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Gateron Ink Red mechanical keyboard switches, both linear in design, you'll find distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Hyacinth V2 stands out for its crisp top-out sound and resonant 'clack', perfect for enthusiasts seeking depth in auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Ink Red offers a smoother and lighter typing experience, with a crispy and clacky sound profile ideal for those with a lighter typing style. While the Hyacinth V2 is 'Clacky', 'Creamy', and 'Snappy', the Ink Red is characterized as 'Neutral', 'Silky', and 'Chirpy', showcasing unique qualities for different preferences. 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
52g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Gateron Ink Red differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Hyacinth V2 features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This results in a more resonant sound, particularly noticeable with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Red utilizes a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, which also produces a high-pitched sound but is described as clacky rather than sharp. This difference in sound characteristics can influence the overall typing experience for users.
In contrast, the housing materials for the bottom of the switches offer another point of comparison. The Hyacinth V2 uses a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate top housing. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. In comparison, the Gateron Ink Red employs its proprietary INK blend for the bottom housing as well, contributing to the switch's high-pitched and clacky sound profile. While both switches share a similar high-pitched sound, the materials used in the bottom housing can impact the typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for switches plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and typing experience for users. While both the Hyacinth V2 and the Gateron Ink Red feature unique characteristics in their housing materials, such as polycarbonate and nylon for the Hyacinth V2, and the proprietary INK blend for the Gateron Ink Red, they both offer distinctive sound profiles that can affect how users perceive their typing experience. Whether it's the sharper and crisper sound of the Hyacinth V2 or the clacky and pointed sound of the Gateron Ink Red, the housing materials contribute to the overall feel and sound of the switches.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Hyacinth V2 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it a medium-light switch. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, falling into the medium category. This means that the Hyacinth V2 is lighter both in actuation and bottom out force compared to the Ink Red. While both switches have the same actuation force, the difference in bottom out force will result in a slightly lighter typing experience with the Hyacinth V2 and a firmer feel with the Ink Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Ink Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Ink Red has a longer travel distance compared to the Hyacinth V2. The 0.5 mm may not seem like much, but it can make a difference in how the typing experience feels. The Hyacinth V2 may offer a slightly faster response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Ink Red may provide a more satisfying key press for those who enjoy a deeper feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
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 Red 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 Red for $7.35.
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 Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch is renowned for its clacky sound profile, delivering a sharp and snappy auditory experience with a deep 'clack' that resonates satisfyingly in every keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch offers a neutral sound profile with a hint of chirpiness, adding a unique acoustic signature to each press. Both switches provide a pleasant sound feedback, but the Hyacinth V2 stands out for enthusiasts seeking a deeper, more percussive sound, while the Ink Red offers a versatile sound profile suitable for various typing styles and environments.
When it comes to feel, the Hyacinth V2 switch is described as creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy, emphasizing a smooth and effortless typing experience. The Ink Red switch, on the other hand, is noted for its silky, mild, and polished feel, providing a gentle and approachable typing sensation with reduced friction and smooth key travel. While both switches offer a silky smooth typing feel, the Hyacinth V2 excels in providing a more dynamic and responsive typing experience with its snappy feel, ideal for users looking for a switch with a lively feedback.
In conclusion, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and Gateron Ink Red linear switches both offer unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Hyacinth V2 excels in providing a deep and resonant clacky sound along with a snappy and polished feel, making it a top choice for enthusiasts seeking a more dynamic typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Red provides a versatile and mild sound profile with a silky and polished feel, perfect for users looking for a smooth and gentle typing sensation. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance and can deliver a satisfying typing experience, with slight variations to meet individual preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize a crisp and deep 'clack' sound profile with a medium-light bottom out force of 52 grams, opt for the Hyacinth V2. This switch is perfect for those who value a unique auditory experience and a smooth, frictionless typing feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, chirpy sound profile with a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, the Gateron Ink Red may be more suitable for you. This switch offers effortless typing and a gentle, polished typing experience that is approachable to most users. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your preference for sound, feel, and typing style.
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