HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 vs. Outemu Gold
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Outemu Gold switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Outemu Gold stand out as popular choices with distinct characteristics. The Hyacinth V2, a linear switch, is praised for its long stem pole that delivers a crisp top-out sound with a deep 'clack', providing enthusiasts with a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold is a clicky switch that offers a different typing experience. While the Hyacinth V2 is known for its seamless blend of sound and performance, the Gold switch provides a tactile feedback with a satisfying click sound. Both switches have their 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
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 22mm Korean spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Outemu Gold are quite similar in terms of their top housings, both utilizing polycarbonate to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The transparency of the polycarbonate material in both switches allows for the use of RGB lighting, providing an aesthetically pleasing look for gamers and enthusiasts. This similarity in housing material ensures that users can expect similar sound characteristics and visual appeal when using either switch.
While the top housings of the Hyacinth V2 and Gold switches are alike, their bottom housings diverge with the former utilizing nylon material. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing. In contrast, the Gold switch also features a nylon bottom housing, providing users with a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile and tactile feedback.
When considering the impact of housing material on switch performance, it is important to note that the qualities of each material are distributed between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed, while the top housing plays a crucial role in the sound produced when releasing a key. This distribution ensures that users can experience a well-rounded typing experience that combines the unique characteristics of both top and bottom housing materials in the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and Outemu Gold switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, we can see that both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of initial keystroke activation. However, the Hyacinth V2 has a lighter bottom out force of 52 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing feel, allowing for extended typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold clicky switch has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams, offering a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences, with the Hyacinth V2 being the lighter option and the Outemu Gold clicky switch being the heavier option.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Outemu Gold clicky switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Hyacinth V2 will require less distance to actuate compared to the Gold switch. Gamers may prefer the Hyacinth V2 for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while others may prefer the deeper feel of the Outemu Gold clicky switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 Gold 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 offers a distinctive and deep 'clack' that provides a resonant and satisfying acoustic experience. On the other hand, information about the sound profile of the Outemu Gold clicky switch is unknown. The auditory feedback of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the specific keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Hyacinth V2 linear switch is known for its creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience. This means that users can expect smooth and effortless key presses, with reduced friction and a refined finish for a sleek typing feel. The Gold switch's typing feel is not specified in the provided information. It's important to note that individual preferences for typing feel can vary, so trying out different switches is key in finding the right fit.
Overall, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch is praised for its blend of sound and performance, offering a clacky and satisfying typing experience with smooth and polished key presses. While information about the Outemu Gold clicky switch is limited in this context, users who enjoy a crisp and bright sound with a smooth and buttery typing feel may find the Hyacinth V2 to be a suitable choice. Ultimately, personal preference plays a significant role in choosing the right switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for sound and feel. If you value a crisp and resonant clacky sound with a deep 'clack' in every stroke, along with a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky typing experience, then the Hyacinth V2 would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a different sound and feel profile, the Gold switch may be more suitable. Consider the medium-light bottom out force of 52 grams for the Hyacinth V2 and the medium bottom out force of 60 grams for the Gold when making your decision. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences and what you value most in a keyboard switch.
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