HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 vs. Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2, a linear switch, is renowned for its crisp top-out sound and deep 'clack' that provides a resonant and satisfying acoustic experience for users seeking a balance of sound and performance. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro, a tactile switch, offers a higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfying tactile bump for a delightful typing experience. While the Hyacinth V2 is known for its seamless blend of sound and performance, the Lavender Purple V3 stands out for its accented and bouncy feel. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that appeal to 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
55g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 22mm Korean spring
Spring
20mm
Housing materials
Both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, allowing for a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches with RGB lighting, as it enhances the visual aesthetic of the keyboard. While both switches utilize the same material for their top housing, the difference in color may appeal to different preferences in terms of design.
On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2 and the V3 Lavender Purple Pro differ in their bottom housing materials. The Hyacinth V2 features a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar sound profile with a duller and rounder tone. Despite the difference in the rest of the housing materials, the similarity in the nylon bottom housing of both switches ensures a comparable typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
In terms of typing experience, the choice of housing materials in both switches plays a significant role. The qualities of the bottom housing, such as impact on bottom-out sound and feel, are predominant when pressing down on the switch. Conversely, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. While the top housing materials of the Hyacinth V2 and the V3 Lavender Purple Pro may produce similar sound profiles, the difference in their bottom housing materials contributes to a subtle variation in the overall typing experience between the two switches.
Weight
In comparing the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, we see that both have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Hyacinth V2 requires 52 grams while the Lavender Purple Pro needs 55 grams. This makes the Hyacinth V2 the lighter option overall. The Hyacinth V2 provides a medium-light typing experience, suitable for those who prefer a softer touch, while the Lavender Purple Pro offers a slightly heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing feel. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Hyacinth V2 being better for extended typing sessions and the Lavender Purple Pro offering a firmer push for those who prefer a more pronounced typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and the desired level of force needed for typing comfort.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Hyacinth V2 has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Lavender Purple Pro. The difference between the two may not be significant, but for those who prefer a shorter travel distance for quick response times, the Hyacinth V2 may be the better choice. On the other hand, the Lavender Purple Pro offers a slightly longer travel distance for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, but the slight variation may cater to different preferences in 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 Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Lavender Purple Pro for $2.20.
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 offers a clacky experience with a sharp and snappy sound that is described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch provides a higher-pitched sound profile that adds to a delightful typing experience. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Hyacinth V2 standing out for its deep 'clack' and the Lavender Purple Pro for its satisfying tactile bump.
Moving on to the feel, the Hyacinth V2 is known for its creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience. This means it offers smooth and buttery keystrokes with reduced friction and enhanced smoothness, making each keystroke feel effortless and responsive. As for the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro, it boasts features such as accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished attributes. This results in a tactile switch that provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming, giving a lively feel with rebound when pressed.
In conclusion, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Hyacinth V2 excels in providing a clacky sound and a creamy, frictionless typing experience, while the Lavender Purple Pro delivers a higher-pitched sound profile and a bouncy, accented feel. Both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, ensuring that users can find the perfect match for their mechanical keyboard setup based on their desired sound and tactile feedback. Ultimately, whether you choose the Hyacinth V2 or the Lavender Purple Pro, you can expect a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience tailored to your individual preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, consider the specific qualities that appeal to you the most. If you prioritize a crisp, clacky sound with a seamless blend of sound and performance, the Hyacinth V2 would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a higher-pitched sound profile with a satisfying tactile bump for a delightful typing experience, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro may be more suitable for your preferences. Additionally, if you prefer a creamy, frictionless, or polished feel, the Hyacinth V2 offers these qualities, while the V3 Lavender Purple Pro provides an accented, bouncy, snappy, or polished sensation. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preference in sound and feel, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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