HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 vs. KTT Lightning
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the KTT Lightning switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the KTT Lightning mechanical keyboard switches, both linear in design, you'll find two distinct options with unique characteristics to consider. The Hyacinth V2 offers a satisfyingly deep 'clack' sound with its long stem pole, providing a resonant auditory experience that enthusiasts will appreciate. On the other hand, the Lightning switches are known for their speed, making them ideal for situations where split-second decisions matter. While the Hyacinth V2 stands out for its seamless blend of sound and performance, the Lightning switches offer a slick typing feel with a clacky sound profile. 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
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 22mm Korean spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the KTT Lightning, both keyboards utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both keyboards. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal choice for switches with RGB lighting capabilities. Therefore, users can expect similar sound characteristics when typing on both the Hyacinth V2 and the Lightning due to their shared polycarbonate top housing.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Hyacinth V2 opts for nylon, while the KTT Lightning also features a nylon bottom housing. Despite sharing the same material, the bottom housing of a switch plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel when typing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. As a result, users may notice a subtle yet distinct difference in the typing experience between the Hyacinth V2 and the Lightning due to their nylon bottom housings.
Ultimately, the choice of housing materials in mechanical keyboards like the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the KTT Lightning can significantly impact the typing experience. While both keyboards share a polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and clear sound, the difference in their nylon bottom housings can influence the depth and fullness of the sound produced. Whether you prefer a crisper sound profile with the Hyacinth V2 or a deeper sound with the Lightning, understanding the role of housing materials can help you make an informed decision based on your sound preferences and typing needs.
Weight
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch both offer a smooth typing experience with different actuation and bottom out forces. The Hyacinth V2 has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Lightning's 43 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a bit more resistance while typing. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Hyacinth V2 requires 52 grams, slightly heavier than the Lightning's 50 grams. This means that while the Hyacinth V2 may offer a more substantial typing experience, the Lightning provides a lighter touch, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is longer than the KTT Lightning linear switch's 3 mm travel distance. While both switches fall on the shorter end of the spectrum compared to traditional switches, the Hyacinth V2 offers slightly more depth for those who prefer a bit more travel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Lightning switch provides a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers may lean towards the Lightning switch for its faster actuation, while those who require a bit more tactile feedback may prefer the Hyacinth V2. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and responsiveness.
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 KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41 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
In terms of sound, both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and KTT Lightning switches are described as having a 'clacky' sound profile, producing sharp and percussive sounds when pressed. This indicates that users can expect a similar auditory experience with both switches, with a noticeable emphasis on the crispness and brightness of the sound. The Hyacinth V2 is praised for its deep and resonant 'clack', while the Lightning offers a slightly different tone with a touch of chirpiness and high-pitched characteristics. Ultimately, the choice between the two would come down to personal preference in sound profiles, as both switches provide a satisfying auditory feedback for users.
When it comes to feel, the Hyacinth V2 is lauded for its 'creamy', 'frictionless', 'polished', 'silky', and 'snappy' typing experience, offering smooth and responsive keystrokes with minimal resistance or friction. On the other hand, the Lightning switch is described as 'subtle' and 'polished', providing a gentle resistance and smooth key travel for a lighter typing feel. While the Hyacinth V2 focuses on enhancing the smoothness and responsiveness of typing, the Lightning switch aims to cater to users who prefer a more subtle and refined typing experience. Users seeking a more pronounced tactile feedback and responsiveness may lean towards the Hyacinth V2, while those looking for a softer touch may opt for the Lightning switch.
In conclusion, both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and KTT Lightning linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While they both share a 'clacky' sound profile, the Hyacinth V2 provides a deeper and more resonant tone compared to the Lightning's chirpy and high-pitched sound. In terms of feel, the Hyacinth V2 emphasizes smoothness and responsiveness with its creamy and snappy attributes, while the Lightning offers a more subtle and polished typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound and typing feel, as both switches excel in providing a satisfying and distinctive mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch that offers a distinct auditory experience with a deep 'clack' sound and seamless performance, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 would be a great choice. The Hyacinth V2's medium-light bottom out force of 52 grams, combined with its creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy feel, makes it an ideal option for enthusiasts who prioritize both sound and feel in their keyboard switches. On the other hand, if you value speed and precision in your keystrokes, the KTT Lightning linear switch with a light bottom out force of 50 grams might be more suitable for you. The Lightning's clacky, high-pitched, and chirpy sound profile, along with its slick, subtle, and polished feel, make it a top pick for situations where milliseconds can make a difference in your typing or gaming performance. Ultimately, the choice between the Hyacinth V2 and the Lightning comes down to your personal preferences in sound, feel, and usage scenarios.
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