HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 vs. KTT Mannan Pipefish
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the KTT Mannan Pipefish mechanical keyboard switches, you are presented with distinct options to cater to your typing preferences. The Hyacinth V2 is renowned for its crisp top-out sound and resonant 'clack', offering enthusiasts a satisfying auditory experience along with smooth performance. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish boasts effortless and enjoyable typing with its smooth linear action and light 45g actuation force, ideal for casual typists looking for comfort and precision. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your specific typing needs and 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
37g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
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
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
22mm spring
Housing materials
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the KTT Mannan Pipefish both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. However, when it comes to the nylon bottom housings, both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. This material absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics.
Despite the similarities in the top and bottom housing materials between the Hyacinth V2 and the Mannan Pipefish, it's important to note how these materials affect the overall sound and feel of the switches differently. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This split in housing materials allows for a more nuanced typing experience as users can feel and hear the distinct qualities of both materials depending on the keystroke. The combination of polycarbonate and nylon in each switch creates a well-balanced sound profile that offers a unique typing experience.
In conclusion, while both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the KTT Mannan Pipefish utilize similar housing materials, the way in which these materials are implemented in the switches results in slightly different sound profiles and typing experiences. The polycarbonate top housings provide a sharp and clear sound, especially when paired with RGB lighting, while the nylon bottom housings offer a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature. Understanding how each housing material influences the overall sound and feel of the switches can help users make informed decisions based on their preferences for typing on mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch with 37 grams, making the Mannan Pipefish the lighter option. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Hyacinth V2 requires 52 grams while the Mannan Pipefish needs 45 grams, indicating that the Hyacinth V2 is the heavier switch in this aspect. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, but the Hyacinth V2 offers a slightly firmer keystroke with a slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish provides a lighter touch, making it ideal for those who prefer a gentler typing feel. Overall, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for either a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Hyacinth V2 offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for fast reactions. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish provides a slightly deeper keypress feel with its longer travel distance, which some users may find more satisfying for typing or general use. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired 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 KTT Mannan Pipefish has an MSRP of $3.53 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mannan Pipefish for $3.05.
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 comparing the sound of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switches, the Hyacinth V2 stands out for its distinctive deep 'clack' sound, providing a resonant and satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish offers a more neutral sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users and purposes. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing environments.
In terms of feel, the Hyacinth V2 is known for its creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience, offering smooth and responsive key presses. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish is praised for its easy-to-press and polished feel, providing gentle resistance and effortless typing sessions. While the Hyacinth V2 focuses on a variety of smooth and polished sensations, the Mannan Pipefish prioritizes a light and comfortable typing experience.
Overall, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch offer distinct qualities in both sound and feel. The Hyacinth V2 excels in providing a deep 'clack' sound alongside a creamy and smooth typing experience, ideal for enthusiasts seeking a rich auditory feedback. Meanwhile, the Mannan Pipefish prioritizes a neutral sound profile and an easy-to-press feel, catering to casual typists looking for a light and strain-free typing journey. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique advantages that can enhance your overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch versus the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, you should choose the Hyacinth V2 if you are looking for a switch with a medium-light bottom out force of 52 grams that offers a distinctive deep 'clack' sound and a seamless blend of sound and performance. This switch is perfect for enthusiasts seeking a tactile and auditory experience that stands out. On the other hand, opt for the Mannan Pipefish if you prefer a lighter 45 gram bottom out force switch that provides a smooth linear action, lengthened spring, and a light and strain-free typing experience. This switch is ideal for casual typists looking for comfort and precision in their keyboarding journey. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your preference for key feel, sound, and typing experience.
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