HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 vs. Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean both offer a linear typing experience. The Hyacinth V2 is renowned for its long stem pole, providing a crisp 'clack' sound with every keystroke, making it a popular choice for enthusiasts who value a satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Dustproof Silent Ocean is designed to be silent, ideal for those who require a quiet typing experience. While the Hyacinth V2 is characterized by its 'clacky', 'creamy', and 'snappy' qualities, the Dustproof Silent Ocean does not have specific categorizations. Ultimately, the Hyacinth V2 offers a blend of sound and performance, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean excels in providing a noiseless 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
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, ideal for users looking for a more resonant typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of these switches. As a result, users can expect similar sound and visual effects from both the Hyacinth V2 and the Dustproof Silent Ocean when it comes to their polycarbonate top housings.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of the Hyacinth V2 is made of nylon, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a more muffled and rounded typing experience compared to the sharpness of the polycarbonate top housing. With both switches featuring nylon bottom housings, users can expect a similar sound and feel when typing on these switches, emphasizing a more subdued and tactile typing experience overall.
It is important to note that the qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch, with the bottom housing having a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This division of qualities allows for a balanced typing experience, combining the sharpness of the polycarbonate top housing with the softer and fuller sound of the nylon bottom housing. Ultimately, users of both the Hyacinth V2 and the Dustproof Silent Ocean can expect a unique blend of sound characteristics and tactile feedback that cater to different preferences in typing feel.
Weight
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equal in this aspect. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Hyacinth V2 is lighter with 52 grams compared to the Dustproof Silent Ocean's heavier 65 grams. This means that the Hyacinth V2 provides a medium-light typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean offers a more substantial typing feel that some users may prefer for a satisfying keystroke. Overall, the choice between the two switches would depend on whether a lighter or heavier typing experience is preferred by the user.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches offer relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm standard. Gamers may appreciate the slightly shorter travel distance of the Dustproof Silent Ocean for quicker response times, while those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes may lean towards the Hyacinth V2 with its slightly longer travel distance. Overall, both switches provide a similar experience in terms of travel distance, so you can expect comparable results from either option.
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 Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean comes in at $3.10 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 is best described as clacky, offering a sharp and snappy sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, information regarding the sound qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch is unknown. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Hyacinth V2 is known for providing a creamy typing experience, where each keystroke feels smooth and buttery. This switch is also described as frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy, offering a range of tactile sensations for users seeking a refined typing experience. Conversely, details on the tactile feel of the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch are not available, making it challenging to compare the two switches in this aspect.
In conclusion, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch excels in both sound and feel, providing a satisfyingly clacky sound and a creamy, smooth typing experience for users. While information on the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch is limited, it is important to consider personal preferences when choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches may offer similar results depending on individual preferences and setup configurations.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a distinctive 'clacky' sound profile that offers a seamless blend of sound and performance, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smooth, frictionless typing experience, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize sound or feel in your typing experience.
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