HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 vs. Dareu Mahjong
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Dareu Mahjong switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Dareu Mahjong mechanical keyboard switches, it is clear that they offer distinct characteristics catering to different preferences. The Hyacinth V2, a linear switch, is renowned for its crisp top-out sound and resonant 'clack', providing a satisfying auditory experience for enthusiasts who value depth in keyboard feedback. On the other hand, the Mahjong switch, also a linear switch, stands out for its unique green and white color scheme and a more lively, poppy sound signature, offering an effortless typing experience. While the Hyacinth V2 is described as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', and 'Snappy', the Mahjong switch is characterized as 'Bouncy' and 'Mild'. Both switches have a 'Polished' feel but differ in terms of sound profile and 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
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
POK
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Dareu Mahjong both offer unique characteristics that contribute to the overall feel and sound of the switch. The Hyacinth V2 features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharp, high-pitched sound profile and is ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the Mahjong's POK top housing is known for its smoothness and durability, delivering a smooth, clacky sound experience. While both materials excel in different aspects, they both aim to enhance the overall typing experience.
On the other hand, both the Hyacinth V2 and the Mahjong utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that produces a deep and full sound profile, absorbing more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound that adds to the tactile feedback of the switch. Despite using the same material for the bottom housing, the switches may still deliver slightly different typing experiences based on other elements such as keycaps and spring weight.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Dareu Mahjong reflects the manufacturers' priorities in sound profile, durability, and tactile feedback. While the Hyacinth V2 focuses on creating a sharp and resonant sound with its polycarbonate top housing, the Mahjong prioritizes smoothness and shock resistance with its POK material. Similarly, both switches benefit from the use of nylon for the bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound that enhances the overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and feel.
Weight
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light in terms of initial key press. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Hyacinth V2 requires 52 grams of force, giving it a slightly heavier feel compared to the Mahjong, which does not have a specified bottom out force. For those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, the Hyacinth V2 may be the preferred choice due to its slightly higher bottom out force. On the other hand, those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Mahjong to be more suitable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Dareu Mahjong linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for their quick responsiveness. However, the Hyacinth V2 has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Mahjong. The difference between the two is minimal and may not be noticeable to all users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of the feel and depth of the key press.
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 Dareu Mahjong has an MSRP of $8.89 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mahjong for $5.79.
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 during each keystroke, providing a crisp and percussive feedback that enthusiasts often seek. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong switch presents a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for various users and purposes. When choosing between the two switches, individuals should consider their preference for a sharper, more distinct sound versus a more versatile and moderate sound profile.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Hyacinth V2 provides a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience, offering smoothness and responsiveness with every keystroke. This makes typing on the Hyacinth V2 a luxurious and effortless experience. Conversely, the Mahjong switch is described as bouncy, mild, and polished, providing a more gentle and lively typing sensation that falls into a safe middle-ground zone. Depending on personal preference, users may prefer the silky smoothness of the Hyacinth V2 or the lively bounce of the Mahjong switch.
In conclusion, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and Dareu Mahjong linear switches offer distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. While the Hyacinth V2 leans towards a sharper, clacky sound profile with a smooth and responsive typing experience, the Mahjong switch provides a more neutral sound and a bouncy, mild feel that appeals to a wider range of users. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will come down to individual preferences for sound sharpness, typing smoothness, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In choosing between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, you should consider the characteristics that best suit your preferences. If you are looking for a keyboard switch that offers a deep and resonant sound with a seamless blend of performance, the Hyacinth V2 would be a great choice for you. Its creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy feel enhances the typing experience, providing a smooth and effortless keypress. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a lively and poppy sound signature, the Mahjong switch may be the better option. It offers a bouncy and mild feel, along with a polished finish for smooth key travel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize sound depth and performance integration (Hyacinth V2) or a lively sound signature and smooth key travel (Mahjong).
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