HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Outemu Tom offer different experiences for users. The Hyacinth V2, a linear switch, is renowned for its crisp top-out sound and deep 'clack', providing a satisfying auditory feedback that is perfect for enthusiasts looking for a blend of sound and performance. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom, a tactile switch, does not have a distinctive feature mentioned but is known for its tactile bump during actuation. While the Hyacinth V2 is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', 'Polished', 'Silky', and 'Snappy', the Tom does not have any specific categories listed. Depending on your preference for linear or tactile switches, you may find one of these switches better suited for your typing needs. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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
The housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Outemu Tom are quite similar, with both featuring polycarbonate top housings. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to polycarbonate's stiffness that lends to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the difference lies in their nylon bottom housings, where the Hyacinth V2's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Tom's nylon bottom housing also creates a deeper and fuller sound profile but with a duller and rounder quality.
While both the Hyacinth V2 and the Outemu Tom feature polycarbonate top housings that result in similar sound profiles, their nylon bottom housings provide a slight distinction in the overall sound produced. The split between the qualities of the bottom and top housings means that when typing on these switches, users can feel the impact of the bottom housing in the bottom-out sound and feel. As a result, the nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound experience, despite the slight differences in the specific characteristics of the sound. This shows that even when utilizing the same material for the top housing, subtle variations in the bottom housing can influence the overall typing experience.
In terms of aesthetics and functionality, both the Hyacinth V2 and the Outemu Tom benefit from the use of polycarbonate top housings for their clarity and resonance in sound production. The distinct qualities of polycarbonate, such as its stiffness and translucency, are evident in creating a sharp and crisp sound profile, especially when paired with RGB lighting. Additionally, the nylon bottom housings of both switches contribute to a deeper and fuller sound, although with slight variations in the tone and roundness of the sound produced. Overall, while the housing materials of these switches may have slight differences, they ultimately provide a similar level of quality and performance in sound production.
Weight
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Outemu Tom tactile switch, which requires 55 grams of force to actuate. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Hyacinth V2 is heavier at 52 grams compared to the unknown bottom out force of the Tom switch. The Hyacinth V2 provides a medium-light typing experience, while the Tom switch offers a stronger push feel due to its higher actuation force. The choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference - lighter switches are ideal for extended typing sessions, while heavier switches offer a more substantial typing experience. Despite the differences in actuation and bottom out forces, both switches offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Tom tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may result in a slightly different typing experience. The Hyacinth V2 may feel slightly more responsive due to its longer travel distance, while the Tom might feel more abrupt. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Tom 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 known for its distinctive 'clacky' sound, providing a sharp and snappy acoustic experience that is crisp, bright, and percussive. This sound is favored by enthusiasts seeking a satisfying auditory feedback that adds depth to their typing experience. On the other hand, the sound qualities of the Outemu Tom tactile switch are unknown, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect.
Moving on to feel, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch offers a range of descriptors such as 'creamy', 'frictionless', 'polished', 'silky', and 'snappy', indicating a smooth, effortless, and responsive typing experience with reduced friction and enhanced tactile feedback. These qualities make it a popular choice for users looking for a refined and polished typing feel. As for the Outemu Tom tactile switch, information regarding its feel characteristics is not available, making it challenging to contrast with the Hyacinth V2 in this regard.
In conclusion, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch stands out for its clacky sound signature and a variety of feel descriptors that offer a premium typing experience. While the sound qualities of the Outemu Tom tactile switch remain unknown, users can expect similar results in terms of feel when compared to the Hyacinth V2 if the Tom switch also focuses on providing a smooth and responsive typing feel. As always, 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 Tom tactile switch, you should consider your preference for sound and feel. If you value a crisp, clacky sound with a deep 'clack' that provides a satisfying auditory experience, the Hyacinth V2 would be the ideal choice for you. Additionally, if you enjoy a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, or snappy typing feel that enhances your overall typing experience, the Hyacinth V2 would be a great fit. On the other hand, if the bottom out force is a crucial factor for you and you prefer a switch with a medium-light 52g force, the Hyacinth V2 would be the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your specific preferences for sound and feel to ensure you have an optimal typing experience.
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