HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) mechanical keyboard switches, there are distinct qualities that set them apart. The Hyacinth V2 offers a deep 'clack' sound and a crisp top-out sound, providing a truly immersive auditory experience for keyboard enthusiasts looking for a blend of sound and performance. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) from Gateron is known for its smoothness, low "thocky" sound, and versatile performance that makes it suitable for both gaming and typing. While the Hyacinth V2 excels in providing a polished and snappy typing experience, the Milky Yellow Pro offers a buttery and textured feel that is pleasing to the senses. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housing in both the Hyacinth V2 and the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3).
On the other hand, the top housing materials of these switches differ, with the Hyacinth V2 featuring a polycarbonate top housing while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has a nylon top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. Meanwhile, nylon top housing in the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound compared to harder plastics for a rounder sound experience.
While the top and bottom housings of these switches may have different materials, the impact of each housing material is noticeable when typing. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when letting go of a key. Both the Hyacinth V2 and the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) provide unique sound profiles and tactile experiences based on their housing materials, catering to different preferences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
In comparing the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it is evident that the Hyacinth V2 is the lighter option with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams. Both switches fall in the medium-light to medium force range, providing a comfortable typing experience for users who prefer lighter or heavier switches. The actuation force determines the force needed to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the force required to press the switch all the way down. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and keypress feedback.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch that has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Hyacinth V2 offers a slightly quicker response time compared to the Milky Yellow Pro due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers and users looking for a more responsive typing experience may prefer the Hyacinth V2. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more tactile and deep keystroke may lean towards the Milky Yellow Pro with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style. Despite the difference in travel distance, both switches offer reliable performance and smooth keystrokes.
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 Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has an MSRP of $2.33 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) for $2.30.
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 it comes to sound, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch offers a clacky and deep 'clack' sound that provides a resonant and satisfying acoustic experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is described as bassy, low-pitched, and thocky, offering a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses. While the Hyacinth V2 focuses on a sharp and snappy sound, the Milky Yellow Pro leans towards a bass-heavy and mellow tone with a satisfyingly thick resistance.
In terms of feel, the Hyacinth V2 switch is known for its creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience, providing a smooth and buttery sensation with reduced friction and effortless key travel. In contrast, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro switch is described as buttery and textured, offering a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation with noticeable friction for those who prefer a bit of texture in their keystrokes.
Overall, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch is ideal for enthusiasts seeking a blend of sharp, clacky sound with a smooth and buttery typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch caters to budget-conscious users looking for a bassy and thocky sound profile with a buttery and textured typing feel. Both switches excel in different aspects, providing users with a range of options based on their preferences and priorities in sound and feel. Whether you prefer a sharper, clacky sound or a bassier, thocky sound, both switches offer a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when selecting between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, you should consider your preference for sound and feel. If you value a sharp and clacky sound with a creamy, frictionless, and polished typing feel, the Hyacinth V2 is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bassy, thocky sound with a buttery and textured typing experience, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) would be more suitable. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking.
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