HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 vs. Outemu Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Outemu Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Outemu Silent Ocean, both being linear switches, they offer different experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Hyacinth V2 is renowned for its long stem pole, creating a crisp top-out sound with a deep clack that appeals to those who appreciate resonant and satisfying acoustic feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean lacks specific standout features in terms of sound or performance. The Hyacinth V2 is categorized as clacky, creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy, highlighting its versatility. In contrast, while the Silent Ocean lacks defined characteristics, it may appeal to users looking for a quieter typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can decide which switch is best 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
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
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 Silent Ocean, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to polycarbonate's stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. This similarity in housing material suggests that users can expect similar sound characteristics when typing on either switch.
However, a key point of differentiation between the two switches lies in their choice of bottom housing material. The Hyacinth V2 features a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean also opts for a nylon bottom housing, showcasing a preference for this classic switch housing material. This commonality in using nylon for the bottom housing suggests that both switches may offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality and feel.
When considering the impact of different housing materials on the overall typing experience, it becomes clear that the qualities of each material are distributed between the top and bottom housings of a switch. The bottom housing tends to influence the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Outemu Silent Ocean may differ in their choice of bottom housing material, the overall typing experience may still be comparable due to the shared use of polycarbonate for the top housing.
Weight
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and Outemu Silent Ocean linear switches both have an actuation force of 45 grams. This means that when typing on either of these switches, the force needed to trigger a keystroke is the same. However, the bottom out force differs between the two switches. The Hyacinth V2 has a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it a lighter option, while the Silent Ocean has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a heavier option. This indicates that the Hyacinth V2 will provide a lighter typing experience overall, while the Silent Ocean will offer a more substantial and heavier feel. Depending on personal preference, some may find the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Hyacinth V2 more comfortable for extended typing sessions, while others may prefer the heavier feel of the Silent Ocean for a more robust typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Hyacinth V2 offers a slightly faster response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for quick keystrokes. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean provides a bit more depth to each keystroke due to its longer travel distance, suiting users who prefer a more deliberate key press. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their travel distances, but ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for speed versus depth in key presses.
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 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
In terms of sound, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 offers a clacky sound, providing a sharp, crisp, and percussive auditory feedback that resonates with enthusiasts seeking a distinctive acoustic experience. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Outemu Silent Ocean switch is currently unavailable. It is essential to note that the sound produced by a switch is influenced by various factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
Turning our focus to the feel of the switches, the Hyacinth V2 is praised for its creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience. These descriptors indicate a smooth, effortless, refined, and responsive feel when typing on this switch, appealing to users who prioritize tactile feedback and comfort during extended typing sessions. Unfortunately, there is no available information on the tactile qualities of the Outemu Silent Ocean switch.
In conclusion, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch stands out for its unique blend of clacky sound profile and creamy, smooth feel, catering to enthusiasts who value both auditory and tactile experiences in their mechanical keyboards. While the sound and feel characteristics of the Outemu Silent Ocean switch remain unknown, based on the available information, it can be assumed that the Hyacinth V2 offers a more versatile and satisfactory typing experience for newcomers venturing into the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. The Hyacinth V2 with its medium-light bottom out force of 52 grams is ideal for those who prefer a lighter key press, while the Silent Ocean with its medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams is suitable for those who prefer a slightly heavier feel. If you prioritize a distinct and satisfying clacky sound with a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience, the Hyacinth V2 is the way to go. On the other hand, if you are looking for a quieter option without specific sound and feel descriptors provided, the Silent Ocean might be the better choice for you. Ultimately, personal preference and typing style will play a significant role in determining which switch is the best fit for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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