HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 vs. Gateron Luciola
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Gateron Luciola switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Gateron Luciola both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Hyacinth V2, a linear switch, is renowned for its crisp top-out sound and deep 'clack' that provides a satisfying auditory experience for enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola, also a linear switch, stands out for its eye-catching glow-in-the-dark feature and smooth, bouncy typing feel. While the Hyacinth V2 is described as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', and 'Snappy', the Luciola is characterized as 'Chirpy', 'Buttery', and 'High-pitched'. 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
55g
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
3.60 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
22mm double-staged long spring; black-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Gateron Luciola have distinct characteristics that contribute to the sound profile of the switches. The Hyacinth V2's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile compared to the Luciola's INK blend top housing, which provides a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound. Both materials create a satisfying sound, but the Hyacinth V2's polycarbonate is known for its crisper and clearer resonance, ideal for those who prefer a more defined typing experience. On the other hand, the Luciola's INK blend top housing is described as not overly sharp, giving it a unique clacky sound that appeals to a different set of users.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Hyacinth V2 utilizes nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the Luciola's INK blend bottom housing, which complements the top housing with a relatively high-pitched sound profile. While both bottom housings offer distinct sound characteristics, the softer nylon material of the Hyacinth V2 creates a more subdued typing experience, whereas the Luciola's INK blend bottom housing contributes to the overall clacky sound signature of the switch.
Overall, the different combinations of housing materials in the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Gateron Luciola result in unique sound profiles that cater to various preferences. While the top housing plays a significant role in the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. Whether you prefer the sharp and clear resonance of polycarbonate in the Hyacinth V2 or the clacky sound of the proprietary INK blend in the Luciola, both switches offer distinct typing experiences that are sure to please enthusiasts seeking a specific sound profile in their mechanical keyboard setup.
Weight
The actuation and bottom out forces of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch offer different experiences for users. 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. In contrast, the Luciola has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, offering a medium typing feel. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Hyacinth V2 more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions, while those who prefer a stronger push feel may lean towards the Luciola for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer distinct tactile responses based on their actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose the one that best suits their preferences.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Luciola linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches have similar travel distances, with the Luciola being slightly longer. In terms of feel, the differences between a 3.5 mm and a 3.6 mm travel distance may not be very noticeable to the average user. However, for those who are more sensitive to slight variations in keypress feel, the Hyacinth V2 may feel slightly more shallow compared to the Luciola. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference and the specific needs of the user, as both offer a relatively short travel distance that caters to those looking for fast response times in their 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 Gateron Luciola has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Luciola for $6.50.
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 linear switch is best known for its distinct deep 'clack' sound, offering a resonant and satisfying auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola linear switch also produces a 'clacky' sound when pressed, along with additional descriptors such as 'chirpy', 'marbly', and 'high-pitched'. While the Hyacinth V2 focuses on a crisp and percussive sound, the Luciola offers a more diverse range of sound profiles, catering to those who enjoy a variety of acoustic experiences.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Hyacinth V2 is described as providing a creamy, frictionless, and polished typing experience, emphasizing smoothness and ease of keypress. Conversely, the Gateron Luciola linear switch offers a snappy feel, along with buttery and polished descriptors, ensuring a responsive and uniform typing sensation. Both switches excel in providing a satisfying typing experience, with the Hyacinth V2 focusing on smoothness and the Luciola emphasizing responsiveness.
Overall, while both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Gateron Luciola linear switches offer unique sound and typing qualities, they cater to slightly different preferences. The Hyacinth V2 is ideal for enthusiasts seeking a deep 'clack' sound and a creamy typing feel, while the Luciola appeals to those who enjoy a range of sound profiles and a snappy, buttery typing sensation. Ultimately, both switches are sure to provide a top-notch mechanical keyboard experience, with users achieving similar levels of satisfaction depending on their personal preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch, consider your preference for auditory feedback and typing feel. If you value a crisp and resonant sound profile with a medium-light bottom out force, the Hyacinth V2 may be your ideal choice, especially if you enjoy the clacky sensation it offers. On the other hand, if you are drawn to a glow-in-the-dark design and prefer a medium bottom out force with a smooth and bouncy typing feel, the Luciola could be the switch for you. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so ultimately, the decision comes down to what specific qualities you prioritize in a keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
