HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 vs. Cherry MX Brown
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Cherry MX Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2, a linear switch, is distinguished by its crisp top-out sound and resonant 'clack' with each stroke, providing enthusiasts with a deeply satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown is known for its subtle tactility and gentle typing experience, offering a quieter and more subdued audio feedback. While the Hyacinth V2 excels in providing a seamless blend of sound and performance, the MX Brown stands out for its textured typing feel. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. 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
55g
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
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 22mm Korean spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2's polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing offer a unique combination of sound profiles. The polycarbonate top housing creates a sharp, higher-pitched sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound. This combination provides a dynamic typing experience, with a clear and resonant sound when pressing down on keys and a duller and rounder sound when releasing them. In contrast, the Cherry MX Brown switch utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housings, resulting in a consistent deep and full sound profile throughout the typing process.
One key difference between the two housing materials is their stiffness. Polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound profile in the Hyacinth V2. In contrast, nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound in the MX Brown switch. This difference in stiffness affects not only the sound produced by each switch but also the overall feel when typing. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing may provide a more tactile typing experience compared to the softer nylon housing of the MX Brown switch.
While the housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Cherry MX Brown switches offer different sound profiles, they both excel in their own ways. The use of polycarbonate in the Hyacinth V2's top housing allows for a sharper and crisper sound, perfect for those who prefer a more distinct typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon housing in the MX Brown switch provides a deeper and fuller sound, catering to users who enjoy a smoother and quieter typing experience. Whether you prefer the unique combination of materials in the Hyacinth V2 or the consistent sound of nylon in the Cherry MX Brown, both switches offer quality housing materials that enhance the overall typing experience.
Weight
Both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch have a similar actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally sensitive to input. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Hyacinth V2 requires 52 grams, while the MX Brown requires 55 grams, making the MX Brown slightly heavier in this aspect. The Hyacinth V2 offers a lighter typing experience overall, which may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the MX Brown provides a bit more resistance, giving users a more substantial feel with each keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, but the Hyacinth V2 provides a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers may prefer the Hyacinth V2 for this reason, as it allows for faster keystrokes. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown switch offers a bit more depth and feedback with its longer travel distance, making it a better choice for those who prefer a more pronounced actuation point. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing 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 Cherry MX Brown comes in at $4.00 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 sharp and percussive 'clack' with each press, creating a distinct and satisfying auditory experience for users who seek a deeper sound profile. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch provides a more subtle and bassy audio feedback with a lower frequency range, appealing to those who prefer a quieter typing experience. The Hyacinth V2's clacky sound contrasts with the MX Brown's bassy and low-pitched tones, giving users the option to choose based on their preference for keyboard sound.
Moving on to the feel, the Hyacinth V2 is praised for its creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience, boasting smooth and effortless key presses with reduced resistance and enhanced responsiveness. In comparison, the MX Brown is known for its textured feel, which may provide some users with a bit of friction during typing. While both switches offer unique tactile feedback, the Hyacinth V2 stands out for its range of smooth and polished sensations, catering to enthusiasts who prioritize a refined typing experience.
Overall, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch each have their own distinctive qualities in terms of sound and feel. Users looking for a keyboard switch with a deep and sharp 'clack' sound paired with a seamless and polished typing feel may lean towards the Hyacinth V2. On the other hand, those who prefer a more subtle and bassy sound profile with a textured typing sensation may find the Cherry MX Brown to be a better fit. Ultimately, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, allowing users to customize their keyboard setup based on their individual preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, you should consider your preference for sound and feel. If you appreciate a crisp and resonant 'clacky' sound with a seamless blend of sound and performance, the Hyacinth V2 may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle and subdued typing experience with gentle tactility and a 'bassy' sound profile, the Cherry MX Brown could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
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