HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 vs. Gateron New North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Gateron New North Pole V2 both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Hyacinth V2 is praised for its deep 'clack' sound and seamless blend of sound and performance, making it an excellent choice for enthusiasts who value auditory feedback. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 from Gateron eliminates a rubber dampener for a crisper typing experience while retaining its signature frictionless feel. Both switches are categorized as 'Creamy' and 'Polished', offering a smooth 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
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
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
Ink Housing Material
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 22mm Korean spring
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Gateron New North Pole V2, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for users who enjoy a more distinct typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visual element to the switches. Despite this similarity, the two switches differ in their bottom housing materials. The Hyacinth V2 features a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, while the New North Pole V2 utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, maintaining consistency in the sound profile throughout the switch.
The contrasting bottom housing materials of the Hyacinth V2 and the New North Pole V2 result in different typing experiences. The nylon bottom housing of the Hyacinth V2 creates a dulled and rounder sound profile by absorbing more sound than the stiffer polycarbonate material used in the New North Pole V2. This difference in material properties affects the typing feel when bottoming out keys, with the Hyacinth V2 providing a softer landing compared to the crisper bottom-out sound of the New North Pole V2. Despite these distinctions, both switches manage to offer a satisfying typing experience, catering to different preferences in sound and feel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Gateron New North Pole V2 will come down to personal preference regarding sound profile and typing feel. While both switches share the use of polycarbonate in their top housing, the varying bottom housing materials result in distinct typing experiences. The Hyacinth V2 with its nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and softer typing experience, while the New North Pole V2 with its polycarbonate bottom housing provides a crisper and more resonant sound profile. Regardless of the choice made, both switches promise a unique and enjoyable typing experience for users seeking a high-quality mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the Hyacinth V2 is 52 grams, while the New North Pole V2 has a bottom out force of 62.5 grams. The Hyacinth V2 provides a medium-light typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the New North Pole V2 offers a medium typing experience with a slightly heavier feel, suitable for users who prefer a more substantial key press. Both switches offer different levels of actuation and bottom out forces, catering to individuals with different preferences for typing feel and performance.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Hyacinth V2 has a shorter travel distance compared to the New North Pole V2. The difference may seem minimal, but for some users, this variance can make a significant impact on the typing or gaming experience. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Hyacinth V2 with its shorter travel distance, while those seeking a more profound and deliberate keystroke may opt for the New North Pole V2 with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing styles.
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 New North Pole V2 has an MSRP of $6.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the New North Pole V2 for $5.70.
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 linear switch offers a unique 'clack' sound that is sharp, snappy, and percussive, providing a satisfying auditory feedback with every keystroke. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is unknown, as specific descriptors were not provided. However, it is important to note that sound perception can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's build and keycaps used.
Moving on to the typing feel, the Hyacinth V2 is described as offering a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience, all contributing to a smooth and refined feel with minimal friction or resistance. Conversely, the Gateron New North Pole V2 similarly boasts a polished, creamy, and frictionless typing feel, emphasizing smooth key travel and a fluid typing experience. With both switches emphasizing smoothness and effortless key presses, users can expect a seamless and enjoyable typing experience regardless of their choice.
In conclusion, both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switches offer comparable qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Hyacinth V2 is distinguished by its distinct 'clack' sound and creamy typing feel, the New North Pole V2 prioritizes a polished and frictionless typing experience. Ultimately, enthusiasts can expect a rewarding typing experience with either switch, as both deliver on the promise of smoothness, responsiveness, and overall performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences for sound and feel. If you prioritize a crisp top-out sound and a deep 'clack' feedback, the Hyacinth V2 would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother typing experience with a polished finish and frictionless glide, the New North Pole V2 might be more suitable for your needs. Consider the sound and feel descriptions provided for each switch to determine which one aligns best with your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features that cater to different typing experiences, so choose based on what matters most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
