HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 vs. Bsun Kiki Red
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Bsun Kiki Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Bsun Kiki Red, both linear switches. The Hyacinth V2 is renowned for its crisp top-out sound and deep 'clack', providing a resonant and satisfying auditory experience for enthusiasts who value sound quality in their typing. On the other hand, the Kiki Red offers a finely-tuned typing experience with a high-pitched, clacky nuance that is not overpoweringly loud. The POM housings and smooth actuation of the Kiki Reds make them a preferred choice for those seeking subtlety in auditory feedback and finesse in performance. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 22mm Korean spring
Spring
20.4mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Bsun Kiki Red, one noticeable difference is in the top housing material. The Hyacinth V2 boasts a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiff nature. In contrast, the Kiki Red features a POM top housing that creates a more pleasing and unique sound, with a deeper and relatively more muted profile. Despite the difference in sound profiles, both materials offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials of these switches, another distinction arises. The Hyacinth V2 comes with a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Kiki Red also uses POM for its bottom housing, resulting in a similarly pleasing and unique sound profile that leans towards the deeper and more muted end of the spectrum. While both offer different sound profiles, the use of softer materials in the bottom housing enhances the typing experience by creating a more rounded and dull sound.
In terms of overall typing experience, the choice of housing materials plays a significant role in the sound and feel of the switches. The split between top and bottom housings in a switch allows for each material's qualities to influence specific aspects of typing. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Whether you prefer the stiffer and crisper sound of polycarbonate in the Hyacinth V2 or the deeper and more muted sound of POM in the Kiki Red, both switches offer a unique typing experience tailored to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch, there are some noticeable differences. The Hyacinth V2 has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Kiki Red's 42 grams, making the Hyacinth V2 a bit heavier in terms of initial keystroke pressure. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Hyacinth V2 requires 52 grams, while the Kiki Red only needs 50 grams, making the Kiki Red the lighter option for a more consistent typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. Choosing the Hyacinth V2 will provide a slightly heavier typing experience, while opting for the Kiki Red will offer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch, the Hyacinth V2 has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Kiki Red's 3.6 mm. Both fall within the range of modern switch travel distances, with neither being the traditional 4.0 mm nor the shallower 3.0 mm. Gamers looking for quick response times may lean towards the Hyacinth V2 for its slightly shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Kiki Red. Ultimately, the difference of 0.1 mm between the two switches may not be noticeable to all users, so both switches could still provide similar results in terms of typing or gaming 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 Bsun Kiki Red has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Kiki Red for $3.83.
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, both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Bsun Kiki Red switches are described as "clacky," producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. However, the Hyacinth V2 is distinguished by its deep 'clack,' offering a resonant and satisfying acoustic experience, while the Kiki Red strikes a balance with a comfortably high-pitched clack without being excessively loud. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches in terms of sound will depend on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, both the Hyacinth V2 and the Bsun Kiki Red offer a range of descriptors such as "creamy," "frictionless," "polished," "silky," "snappy," and even "easy-to-press." These descriptors suggest that both switches provide a smooth and pleasant typing experience, with a focus on minimizing resistance and enhancing overall typing feel. Therefore, whether you choose the Hyacinth V2 or the Kiki Red, you can expect a high-quality tactile experience that prioritizes comfort and ease of use.
In conclusion, both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Bsun Kiki Red linear switches have their own unique sound qualities and tactile sensations to offer. While the Hyacinth V2 is characterized by its deep and resonant 'clack' sound, the Kiki Red provides a balanced and high-pitched clack without being excessively loud. In terms of feel, both switches prioritize smoothness and comfort, offering a range of descriptors from "creamy" to "easy-to-press." Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on the individual's preferences for sound and feel, as both options promise a premium typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for sound and feel. If you are looking for a switch that provides a deep and resonant 'clack' sound with a creamy and frictionless typing experience, then the Hyacinth V2 would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a high-pitched, clacky sound with a silky and smooth typing feel, along with an easy-to-press actuation force, then the Kiki Red switch would be more suited to your taste. Consider what aspects of sound and feel are most important to you in a keyboard switch, and choose accordingly for a satisfying typing experience.
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