HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 vs. Outemu Silent Green
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Outemu Silent Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2, a linear switch, to the Outemu Silent Green, also a linear switch, several key differences emerge. The Hyacinth V2 stands out for its crisp top-out sound and deep 'clack' that provides a satisfying auditory experience for keyboard enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Silent Green lacks any specific standout features but provides a more general linear switch experience. The Hyacinth V2 is best suited for those looking for a blend of sound and performance, while the Silent Green may appeal to users who prioritize a standard linear switch feel. 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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Outemu Silent Green, both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housings. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing option for users looking to customize their keyboards. However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housings. The Hyacinth V2's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Silent Green's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a sharper and more resonant sound profile, in line with the characteristics of polycarbonate.
While both the Hyacinth V2 and the Silent Green benefit from the sharp and clear sound profile brought by the polycarbonate top housing, their differing bottom housing materials offer unique sound experiences. Typing on the Hyacinth V2 with its nylon bottom housing will provide users with a deeper and fuller sound, creating a more subdued and rounded typing experience. Conversely, the Silent Green's polycarbonate bottom housing will maintain the sharper and crisper sound profile throughout typing, resulting in a more defined and resonant typing sound. This distinction showcases how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience on a switch and cater to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
In terms of keypress feel and sound, the housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Outemu Silent Green play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience. The bottom housing of a switch, whether nylon or polycarbonate, significantly affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. Users of the Hyacinth V2 can expect a more muted and rounded typing experience due to the nylon bottom housing, while those using the Silent Green will enjoy a sharper and crisper typing sound from the polycarbonate bottom housing. On the other hand, the top housing's influence becomes more noticeable when releasing a key, with polycarbonate on both switches contributing to a clear and resonant sound upon key release. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to individual preferences for keypress feel and sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch to the Outemu Silent Green linear switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally responsive at triggering keystrokes. However, the bottom out force of the Hyacinth V2 is lighter at 52 grams compared to the Silent Green's 60 grams, providing a slightly softer typing experience. The Hyacinth V2 would be preferred by those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons, while the Silent Green would cater more to users who prefer a firmer keystroke feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the Outemu Silent Green linear switch. The Hyacinth V2 offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for fast and precise keystrokes. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Green switch with its longer travel distance provides a more substantial keypress feel, which some users may find more comfortable for typing or extended use. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing 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 Silent Green 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 is known for its clacky and resonant 'clack' sound, providing a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Green linear switch's sound profile is unknown. Depending on your preference for a sharp and snappy sound or a quieter typing experience, the Hyacinth V2 may be the preferred choice for those who enjoy a more pronounced sound profile.
Moving on to the feel, the Hyacinth V2 linear switch offers a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience. With its smooth and buttery feel, reduced friction, and responsive keystrokes, this switch provides a luxurious typing sensation that enhances the overall typing experience. The feel of the Outemu Silent Green linear switch remains unknown, so it's difficult to make a direct comparison. However, based on the qualities of the Hyacinth V2, users can expect a comfortable and responsive typing experience with the Silent Green switch as well.
In conclusion, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch stands out for its distinctive clacky sound profile and luxurious, smooth feel. While the Outemu Silent Green linear switch lacks detailed information on its sound and feel, the qualities of the Hyacinth V2 suggest that it offers a satisfying auditory feedback and a comfortable typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch or the Outemu Silent Green linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a deep 'clack' sound with a crisp top-out experience, the Hyacinth V2 may be the ideal choice for you. Its creamy, frictionless, and silky feel provides a smooth and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-bottom out force and a switch that remains silent, the Silent Green could be more suitable for your needs. Keep in mind that the Silent Green lacks specific sound and feel descriptors, so if you value a quiet typing experience without sacrificing performance, this switch could be the one for you. Ultimately, the decision between the Hyacinth V2 and the Silent Green hinges on your personal preferences for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.