HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 vs. Everglide Oreo
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Everglide Oreo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the linear Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the tactile Everglide Oreo mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts are faced with a delightful dilemma. The Hyacinth V2 is lauded for its crisp top-out sound and deep 'clack', providing a resonant and satisfying auditory experience for those seeking a blend of sound and performance. On the other hand, the Oreo offers a delectable treat for fingertips with a crisp tactile bump at the top and a cushioned sensation when bottoming out, striking a perfect balance between a satisfying keystroke and comfortable typing experience. Each switch has its own unique characteristics and benefits, offering a choice between the clacky and creamy experience of the Hyacinth V2 and the accented and chirpy feel of the Oreo. 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
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Everglide Oreo both feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that want to utilize RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Oreo's polycarbonate bottom housing complements its top housing, enhancing the overall sound quality of the switch.
While the housing materials of the Hyacinth V2 and the Oreo differ in their bottom housing composition, with the former using nylon and the latter using polycarbonate, both switches offer a unique typing experience that combines the qualities of these materials. The nylon bottom housing of the Hyacinth V2 contributes to a deeper sound profile and a softer keystroke feel, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Oreo enhances the sharpness and clarity of the sound produced. This split in housing materials allows for a balance between impact on bottom-out sound and feel from the bottom housing and sound when releasing a key from the top housing.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Everglide Oreo play a crucial role in shaping the sound profile and overall typing experience of these switches. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharp and crisp sound, the difference in bottom housing materials offers a unique blend of qualities. The Hyacinth V2's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, while the Oreo's polycarbonate bottom housing complements its top housing, resulting in an enhanced typing experience. Regardless of the differences, both switches deliver high-quality performance and can cater to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
Both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch have similar actuation forces of 45 grams, making them equally light in this aspect. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Hyacinth V2 is the lighter option with a force of 52 grams, while the Oreo is slightly heavier with a force of 55 grams. This means that users who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Oreo switch, while those who enjoy a lighter key press may prefer the Hyacinth V2. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and the desired weight of the key press.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the Everglide Oreo tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Hyacinth V2 offers a slightly quicker key press due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers for faster response times. On the other hand, the Oreo switch provides a bit more depth to the key press, which may be preferred by those who like a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of desired key press 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 Everglide Oreo has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Oreo for $4.19.
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 Hyacinth V2 offers a clacky and sharp auditory experience, providing a crisp and bright noise with each key press. On the other hand, the Oreo switches have a chirpy sound profile, adding a unique squeaky element to the typing experience. Depending on the user's preference and the overall setup of the keyboard, these distinct sound qualities can cater to different tastes and preferences.
Moving on to the feel aspect, the Hyacinth V2 is characterized by a range of descriptors including creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy. These qualities contribute to a smooth and effortless typing experience, ensuring a satisfying keystroke with minimal resistance. In contrast, the Oreo switches are described as accented and stepped, offering a medium tactile sensation that strikes a balance between tactility and comfort. Users can expect a tactile bump at the top with a cushioned feel upon bottoming out, providing a pleasant typing experience overall.
In conclusion, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switches excel in delivering a clacky sound profile along with a creamy, polished, and smooth typing feel. On the other hand, the Everglide Oreo tactile switches offer a chirpy sound and an accented, stepped tactile sensation, combining tactility with comfort. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches provide unique qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience for newcomers venturing into the world of mechanical keyboards. Whether one opts for the Hyacinth V2 or the Oreo, they can expect a high-quality typing experience that meets their specific needs and preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when making a decision between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a clacky sound with a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, or snappy feel, the Hyacinth V2 may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a chirpy sound with an accented or stepped tactile feel, the Oreo switch could be the perfect fit for your typing preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and what type of typing experience you find most satisfying.