HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 vs. Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry. The Hyacinth V2 is a linear switch loved for its crisp top-out sound and resonant 'clack', providing a satisfying acoustic experience for users who appreciate depth in their keyboard's auditory feedback. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry is a tactile switch with a sharp tactile bump, ideal for those who enjoy a pronounced typing feel. While the Hyacinth V2 is characterized as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', and 'Snappy', the Blueberry stands out for being 'Buttery', 'Textured', and 'Stiff'. Each switch has its own unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
3.00 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 22mm Korean spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches offer different characteristics in terms of sound profile and feel. The Hyacinth V2's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, thanks to its stiffness which creates a clear and resonant sound profile. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry's POM top housing produces a deeper and relatively more muted sound. Both housing materials offer unique sound profiles but cater to different preferences - the Hyacinth V2 for a sharper sound and the Blueberry for a deeper tone.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Hyacinth V2 features a nylon bottom housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition which absorbs more sound. Similarly, the NovelKeys Blueberry also utilizes a POM bottom housing that contributes to its unique deeper sound profile. Despite the differences in material composition, both switches provide a more rounded and duller sound compared to their respective top housings. This shows that the choice of bottom housing material can also greatly affect the overall sound profile of the switch.
When considering how the top and bottom housing materials impact the overall typing experience, it is important to note that each housing material brings its own unique qualities to the switch. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. In this case, while the Hyacinth V2 and NovelKeys Blueberry may have different top and bottom housing materials, they ultimately provide similar results in terms of offering a variety of sound profiles for users to choose from based on their preferences.
Weight
The actuation force of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch is lighter at 45 grams compared to the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch at 55 grams. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the Hyacinth V2 is also lighter at 52 grams, while the Blueberry switch is heavier at 80 grams. This means that the Hyacinth V2 will provide a lighter typing experience overall, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Blueberry switch will offer a more substantial and tactile typing feel due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between a lighter or heavier typing experience to suit their needs.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. Although both are relatively close in distance, the Hyacinth V2 offers a slightly shorter travel distance which may appeal to those seeking a quicker response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Blueberry switch provides a bit more depth during key presses which can be desirable for those who prefer a more substantial feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and key press 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 Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the NovelKeys Blueberry for $6.25.
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 provides a deep and resonant 'clack' sound, giving users a satisfying and crisp auditory experience. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch offers a lower-than-average sound frequency with a clean and sharp tone, providing a unique typing sound profile. Both switches deliver distinct auditory feedback, with the Hyacinth V2 emphasizing a sharp and percussive clacky sound, while the Blueberry switch leans towards a bass-heavy and mellow tone.
In terms of feel, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch is described as creamy, frictionless, polished, and silky, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with reduced friction and effortless key travel. In contrast, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch provides a snappy and invigorating typing feel, with a textured sensation that some users may prefer. Both switches excel in responsiveness and tactile feedback, with the Hyacinth V2 focusing on a smooth and polished typing experience, while the Blueberry switch delivers a more pronounced feedback with moderate to firm actuation force.
Overall, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch showcase unique qualities in sound and feel. While the Hyacinth V2 emphasizes a clacky and creamy typing experience, the Blueberry switch offers a low-pitched and invigorating tactile sensation. Whether you prefer a deep resonant sound with a silky feel or a sharp tactile bump with a textured touch, both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles. To achieve similar results in sound and feel, users can experiment with different keyboard setups and keycap choices to further enhance their mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you value a smooth and creamy feel with a clacky sound, the Hyacinth V2 may be the ideal choice for you. Its seamless blend of sound and performance offers a satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you seek a sharp tactile bump and a snappy, invigorating typing experience with a low-pitched, resonant sound, the NovelKeys Blueberry might suit your preferences better. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to your personal preference for typing feel, sound profile, and overall typing experience.
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