HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 vs. TKC Kiwi
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the TKC Kiwi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the TKC Kiwi stand out as top contenders in their respective categories. The Hyacinth V2, known for its linear design, boasts a crisp top-out sound in every stroke, accompanied by a deep 'clack' that offers a truly resonant and satisfying acoustic experience. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi is a tactile switch that features a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, providing a tactile feedback that enhances the typing experience. Both switches offer their own unique benefits, with the Hyacinth V2 excelling in sound performance and the Kiwi delivering a smooth and effortless typing experience. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 22mm Korean spring
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the TKC Kiwi both offer unique sound profiles based on their composition. The Hyacinth V2 features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharp, high-pitched sound profile with clear and resonant tones. In contrast, the Kiwi uses a UHWMPE top housing, which provides a very bright sound signature with resonant clacks when typing. Both materials offer distinct sound profiles, with polycarbonate leaning towards a crisper sound and UHWMPE towards a brighter sound.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Hyacinth V2 utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Kiwi incorporates a UHWMPE bottom housing, which also offers a bright sound signature with resonant clacks while typing. Despite their differences in material, both nylon and UHWMPE contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches, with nylon providing a deeper tone and UHWMPE offering a brighter sound.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Hyacinth V2 and the TKC Kiwi vary, they each play a crucial role in shaping the sound and feel of the switches. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, with nylon offering a deeper and fuller tone, while UHWMPE provides a bright and resonant clack. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key, with polycarbonate creating a sharper and crisper sound, and UHWMPE offering a very bright sound profile. Despite these differences, both switches offer a unique typing experience based on the combination of their housing materials.
Weight
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch have different actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for different preferences. The Hyacinth V2 has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, providing a medium-light typing experience. On the other hand, the Kiwi switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams but a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, resulting in a medium-heavy typing feel. Those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Hyacinth V2 switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may opt for the Kiwi switch. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, and choosing between them depends on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it shorter than the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Hyacinth V2 offers a slightly quicker key press due to its shorter travel distance, appealing to those who prioritize speed and responsiveness, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Kiwi tactile switch provides a slightly longer travel distance, which may feel more satisfying for users who appreciate a greater sense of depth when pressing down on the keys. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and whether one prioritizes speed or a more substantial key press feeling.
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 TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00 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 Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 offers a clacky and percussive experience, perfect for those who enjoy a sharp and crisp sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi provides a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, delivering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone suitable for various typing environments. Both switches offer unique sound qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience, depending on personal preference and the setup of the keyboard.
In terms of feel, the Hyacinth V2 is known for its creamy, frictionless, and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and effortlessly gliding sensation with each keystroke. Conversely, the TKC Kiwi provides a stepped, accented, and polished feel, with a tactile bump at the top of each key press that is not overwhelming yet noticeable. Both switches offer distinct tactile feedback and smooth key travel, catering to different typing preferences and styles.
Overall, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. While the Hyacinth V2 excels in providing a clacky and creamy typing experience, the TKC Kiwi delivers a low-pitched and stepped tactile feel. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience, ensuring that enthusiasts can find the perfect switch for their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, consider the differences in bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you are looking for a medium-light switch with a crisp top-out sound and a seamless blend of sound and performance, the Hyacinth V2 may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a satisfyingly snappy sound profile and a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press for enhanced typing experience, then the Kiwi might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and preferences for sound and feel.
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