HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 vs. Outemu Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Outemu Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2, a linear switch, to the Outemu Milk Tea, a tactile switch, it is important to note their key differences. The Hyacinth V2 is renowned for its crisp top-out sound and deep 'clack', providing enthusiasts with a resonant and satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch remains relatively unknown, lacking a distinct feature to set it apart. While the Hyacinth V2 boasts qualities such as being 'Clacky', 'Creamy', and 'Snappy', the Milk Tea does not have any defined characteristics. Choosing between these two switches may depend on whether you prioritize a smooth, polished feel with exceptional acoustic feedback or if you prefer a tactile 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
N/A
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Ly
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 22mm Korean spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Outemu Milk Tea both feature unique housing materials that play a significant role in the sound profile of the switches. The Hyacinth V2's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and higher-pitched sound compared to the Milk Tea's Ly top housing, which provides a bright and resonant sound signature. Both materials are known for their clarity and ability to create a more defined sound profile, making them ideal for users looking for a distinct typing experience. In terms of aesthetics, the translucent nature of polycarbonate in the Hyacinth V2 allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects, while the Milk Tea's Ly top housing may offer a different visual appeal.
When it comes to the bottom housing material, both the Hyacinth V2 and the Milk Tea feature nylon bottom housings that contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for its softer texture, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This commonality in bottom housing material suggests that users can expect a similar tactile experience when using either switch, as both switches are likely to offer a more muted sound profile compared to switches with harder bottom housings. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of these switches adds a level of consistency in sound quality, which may appeal to users who prefer a more subdued typing experience.
In summary, while the Hyacinth V2 and the Outemu Milk Tea may differ in their top housing materials, both switches share the use of nylon in their bottom housings, emphasizing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The distinctive qualities of polycarbonate and Ly in the top housing of the Hyacinth V2 and the Milk Tea, respectively, offer users a choice between a sharper, higher-pitched sound or a bright, resonant sound signature. Overall, the housing materials of these switches play a crucial role in shaping the typing experience, allowing users to tailor their choice based on their preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light in terms of initial triggering of keystrokes. However, the Hyacinth V2 has a bottom out force of 52 grams, providing a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the Milk Tea, for which the bottom out force is unknown. The difference in bottom out force means that the Hyacinth V2 may offer a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a bit more resistance when pressing all the way down. In general, those who prefer lighter switches for extended typing sessions or gaming may lean towards the Milk Tea, while individuals who prefer a bit more weight behind their keystrokes may find the Hyacinth V2 to be more suitable. Ultimately, the actuation force and bottom out force of a switch play a significant role in determining the typing experience and overall preference for the user.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Hyacinth V2's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers seeking a faster response time, while the Milk Tea's longer travel distance might provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for those who prefer a deeper press. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their travel distances, so choosing between the two ultimately depends on personal preference.
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 Milk Tea 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
In terms of sound, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch offers a sharp and snappy 'clack' with a crisp, bright, and percussive quality when pressed, providing a satisfying auditory experience for users seeking depth in their keyboard feedback. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch is unknown. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's build quality and choice of keycaps.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Hyacinth V2 is known for offering a creamy, frictionless, polished, and silky typing experience with a snappy response, creating a smooth and refined feel with minimal resistance or friction when pressing the keys. This enhances the overall typing feel and responsiveness, allowing users to glide effortlessly across the keys. However, the tactile qualities of the Outemu Milk Tea switch are undisclosed.
Overall, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch stands out for its distinct 'clacky' sound profile and smooth, polished feel, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts looking for a satisfying auditory and tactile experience. While the sound and feel characteristics of the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch remain unknown, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel based on the design and construction of the switch. Ultimately, the choice between the Hyacinth V2 and Milk Tea switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you value a crisp and satisfying auditory feedback with a medium-light bottom out force, then the Hyacinth V2 would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and buttery typing experience without a specified bottom out force, the Milk Tea might be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. No matter which switch you choose, both the Hyacinth V2 and the Milk Tea offer unique characteristics that cater to different keyboard enthusiasts.