HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 vs. Gateron North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Gateron North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Gateron North Pole V2 mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Hyacinth V2 is praised for its crisp top-out sound and deep 'clack,' providing enthusiasts with a resonant and satisfying acoustic experience. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 is described as having a gummy and chewy typing feel, accompanied by a deep and muted sound profile. While the Hyacinth V2 boasts a seamless blend of sound and performance, the North Pole V2 offers a more subdued and bouncy 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
65g
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
Housing materials
Both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Gateron North Pole V2 feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. This makes it ideal for users looking for a clear and resonant sound, especially when paired with RGB lighting. However, the nylon bottom housing of the Hyacinth V2 offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the North Pole V2. Nylon's softer properties absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound, providing a different typing experience for those seeking a quieter switch option.
In terms of aesthetics, both switches have clear housings which are likely to be polycarbonate due to their translucency. This makes them visually appealing and a great choice for users who want to showcase their RGB lighting setups. However, the different housing materials can impact the overall sound and feel of typing on the switches. The qualities of the bottom housing, whether nylon or polycarbonate, will affect the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing material will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. This means that users can experience a varied typing experience depending on which switch they choose based on their preferences for sound and feel.
Overall, the choice between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Gateron North Pole V2 will ultimately come down to personal preference for sound and typing feel. While both switches offer a sharp, higher-pitched sound profile with their polycarbonate top housing, the differing bottom housing materials provide unique qualities to the typing experience. Whether you prefer a clearer and resonant sound with the Hyacinth V2's nylon bottom housing or a deeper and fuller sound with the North Pole V2's polycarbonate bottom housing, both switches have distinct characteristics that cater to different user preferences. Ultimately, users can expect similar results in terms of aesthetics and clarity due to the shared polycarbonate top housing, but the choice of bottom housing will determine the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches.
Weight
When comparing the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch to the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, it is clear that the Hyacinth V2 is the lighter of the two. The Hyacinth V2 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it medium-light in terms of force required. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. Both switches provide a different typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Hyacinth V2 for longer typing sessions, while those seeking a more substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the North Pole V2. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Hyacinth V2 offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the North Pole V2. A shorter travel distance can be beneficial for gamers looking for faster response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more substantial keypress feel. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the North Pole V2 being on the longer end. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for keypress feel and responsiveness.
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 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 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 offers a distinct 'clacky' sound, producing a sharp and snappy noise with each key press. This sound profile is characterized by its crisp, bright, and percussive nature, providing a satisfying auditory feedback for users who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 presents a 'subdued' sound profile, offering a more dampened and subtle noise when keys are pressed. This muted sound signature appeals to those who prefer a quieter typing environment. While both switches may differ in sound characteristics, the ultimate sound experience will be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 is described as offering a 'creamy' typing experience, characterized by a smooth and buttery feel with each keystroke. This switch provides a silky sensation, allowing fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys, resulting in a refined and polished typing experience. Additionally, the Hyacinth V2 is noted for its 'frictionless' and 'polished' qualities, offering minimal resistance and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 is known for its 'gummy' feel, providing a unique typing experience akin to bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. This switch also offers a 'bouncy' sensation, providing a spring-like feedback and lively feel when keys are pressed. Both switches share the 'creamy' and 'polished' qualities, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience for users.
In conclusion, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Hyacinth V2 stands out for its 'clacky' sound profile and 'creamy' typing experience, providing a sharp and satisfying auditory feedback along with a smooth and buttery feel with each key press. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 offers a 'subdued' sound and a 'gummy' feel, appealing to users who prefer a quieter typing environment and a unique, spring-like typing sensation. Overall, both switches provide different yet enjoyable typing experiences, catering to a variety of preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a crisp top-out sound with a deep 'clack' for a satisfying auditory experience, then the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force that provides a deep and muted sound profile along with a satisfying chewy typing feel, then the Gateron North Pole V2 would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your specific preferences for sound and feel when typing.
Mentioned in this article
