HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Gateron Mini i switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Gateron Mini i mechanical keyboard switches, you are presented with two unique options catering to different preferences. The Hyacinth V2, a linear switch, is renowned for its crisp top-out sound and resonant 'clack', offering enthusiasts a seamless blend of sound and performance. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i, a tactile switch, provides a gentle tactility in each key press, making it suitable for comfortable typing without sacrificing satisfying feedback. While the Hyacinth V2 offers a deeper auditory experience, the Mini i strikes a balance with a fairly muted sound profile ideal for office settings. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Gateron Mini i, it is clear that both switches utilize nylon as their bottom housing material. This suggests that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of the deeper and fuller sound profile created by the softer nylon material. However, where they differ is in their top housing material. The Hyacinth V2 features a polycarbonate top housing, which offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer plastic composition. In contrast, the Mini i's nylon top housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This contrast highlights how the choice of top housing material can significantly impact the overall sound profile of a switch.
The use of different housing materials in the Hyacinth V2 and the Gateron Mini i also affects the aesthetics of the switches. The Hyacinth V2's polycarbonate top housing, with its translucency, makes it ideal for users who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows for a vibrant and visually appealing lighting effect. In comparison, the Mini i's nylon top housing, while offering a deeper sound profile, may not have the same visual appeal when paired with RGB lighting. This highlights the importance of considering both performance and aesthetics when selecting a switch with specific housing materials.
Overall, the choice between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Gateron Mini i comes down to personal preference and the specific qualities that each user values in a switch. The Hyacinth V2's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharp and crisp sound profile, ideal for those looking for a more distinct typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, appealing to users who prefer a softer typing experience. Regardless of the choice, both switches feature nylon bottom housings, ensuring a consistent level of sound absorption and overall typing feel.
Weight
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch have different actuation and bottom out forces, with the Hyacinth V2 being the lighter option. The Hyacinth V2 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it a medium-light switch. In contrast, the Mini i has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, categorizing it as a light switch. This means that the Hyacinth V2 will require slightly more force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Mini i, and it will also have a slightly heavier feel when fully pressed. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the Mini i would be the better choice. However, for those who prefer a slightly heavier and more substantial typing feel, the Hyacinth V2 would be the preferred option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing habits.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance at 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular for their faster response times, especially favored by gamers. The difference of 0.1 mm between the two may not be significant in terms of feel, but for those who prefer a slightly shallower keypress, the Mini i may be a better choice. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2 offers just a tad more depth for those who enjoy a more substantial keypress experience. Ultimately, whether you choose the shorter or longer travel distance switch will depend on your personal preference for responsiveness and keypress feel.
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 Mini i comes in at $6.00 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
When it comes to sound, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch offers a distinct and satisfying 'clacky' sound that provides a crisp and bright auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch presents a more neutral sound profile, with a moderate tone that is suitable for various typing environments. Both switches offer different sound experiences, with the Hyacinth V2 providing a more pronounced and resonant sound compared to the Mini i's more subtle and muted profile.
In terms of feel, the Hyacinth V2 is known for its creamy, frictionless, and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and effortless sensation with each key press. The Mini i, on the other hand, is described as bouncy, easy-to-press, and mild, providing a gentle and comfortable typing feel with minimal resistance. While the Hyacinth V2 focuses on providing a silky and snappy typing experience, the Mini i offers a more lively and responsive touch that reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions.
Overall, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch excels in providing a deep and clacky sound along with a smooth and polished typing feel, making it an excellent choice for enthusiasts seeking a tactile and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offers a more neutral sound profile with a bouncy and easy-to-press feel, making it a suitable option for individuals looking for a gentle and comfortable typing experience without sacrificing tactility. Ultimately, both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users will get distinct results based on their sound and feel preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, consider the following: If you are looking for a keyboard switch that provides a deep and resonant clack sound with a creamy and frictionless typing experience, the Hyacinth V2 would be an excellent choice for you. This switch offers a unique blend of sound and performance that is sure to satisfy enthusiasts seeking depth in auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with gentle tactility, easy-to-press keys, and a subtle sound profile that is suitable for office settings, then the Gateron Mini i would be a great option. These switches offer a lightweight and comfortable typing experience without sacrificing feedback. Ultimately, your choice should depend on whether you prioritize sound and performance or gentle tactility and comfort in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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