HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 vs. Akko Penguin

Overview

When deciding between mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often comes down to personal preference and the specific characteristics of each switch. The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2, a linear switch, is renowned for its crisp top-out sound and deep 'clack', offering a resonant and satisfying auditory experience for keyboard enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin, a tactile switch, is designed for noise minimization in office settings with its rounded tactile bump providing a satisfying feedback while keeping a quiet profile. The Hyacinth V2 is best suited for those who prioritize sound and performance, while the Penguin is ideal for those seeking a balance between responsiveness and noise reduction. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 Linear

Akko Penguin Tactile

$3.50

$2.91 per 10

$4.22

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Akko Penguin differ in their composition and impact on sound profiles. The Hyacinth V2 utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the Penguin opts for nylon, which creates a deeper and fuller sound. The use of polycarbonate in the Hyacinth V2's top housing allows for a more resonant sound due to its stiffness, while the nylon top housing of the Penguin absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder sound profile. Despite these differences, both switches prioritize sound quality, with the Hyacinth V2 offering a sharper sound and the Penguin providing a deeper tone.

In terms of bottom housing materials, both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Akko Penguin utilize nylon. This choice leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile in both switches, highlighting the impact of housing material on typing experience. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when compared to harder plastics. This similarity in bottom housing material suggests that both the Hyacinth V2 and the Penguin are designed to prioritize a comfortable typing experience with an emphasis on sound quality and tactile feedback.

The split between top and bottom housing materials in switches like the Hyacinth V2 and the Penguin showcases how each component contributes to the overall sound profile and tactile feel. The differing properties of polycarbonate and nylon influence the sound when pressing down on a key and when releasing it. While the top housing affects the sound upon key release, the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches offer a balance between sound quality and tactile feedback, catering to users who prioritize a satisfying typing experience.

Weight

The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Akko Penguin tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 43 grams. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Hyacinth V2 requires 52 grams to fully press down, while the Penguin needs 60 grams. This means that the Hyacinth V2 is lighter both in actuation and bottom out force compared to the Akko Penguin, making it a better choice for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin offers a more substantial typing feel with its heavier bottom out force. Both switches provide a medium level of force overall, which will result in similar typing experiences for users looking for a balanced feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force.

Travel distance

In comparing the travel distance of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, the Hyacinth V2 has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Penguin's 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are preferred by gamers for quicker response times. The Hyacinth V2 may provide a slightly more substantial key press feel due to its longer travel distance, while the Penguin offers a slightly faster response with its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for the level of responsiveness and key press depth desired.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound qualities of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch to the Akko Penguin tactile switch, the Hyacinth V2 is described as producing a sharp and snappy 'clack' sound, offering a crisp and percussive auditory experience. In contrast, the Penguin switch is noted for its muted sound profile, minimizing the noise associated with mechanical keyboards, making it suitable for use in office environments. The Penguin switch also falls under the category of a neutral switch, offering a moderate sound profile and actuation force, making it versatile for various purposes.

Moving on to the feel of these switches, the Hyacinth V2 is lauded for its creamy, frictionless, and polished typing experience. The switch is described as allowing for smooth and effortless keystrokes, akin to gliding your fingers across the keys with ease. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin switch is also noted for its polished finish, providing a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Additionally, the Penguin switch is described as feathery, offering an exceptionally light typing experience that reduces finger fatigue, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions.

In conclusion, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and Akko Penguin switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Hyacinth V2 provides a clacky sound with creamy and snappy typing feel, the Akko Penguin offers a muted sound profile with a feathery and subtle typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Hyacinth V2 focusing on a satisfying acoustic experience and seamless performance, while the Akko Penguin emphasizes noise minimization and comfort during prolonged typing sessions. Depending on individual preferences for sound, feel, and intended usage, users can achieve similar results in their typing experience with either switch.

Conclusion

In closing, when choosing between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, consider your priorities. If you value a crisp and clacky sound with a creamy, frictionless typing experience, the Hyacinth V2 is the way to go. It offers a satisfying auditory feedback and smooth keystrokes that enthusiasts will appreciate. However, if you prioritize a quieter typing experience with a subtle, polished feel, the Akko Penguin switch is your best bet. Its rounded tactile bump and medium weight strike a balance between performance and noise reduction, making it ideal for office environments. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a more resonant, clacky sound with a smooth typing feel (Hyacinth V2) or a quieter, subtle sound with a gentle resistance (Penguin). Choose wisely based on your personal preferences and intended usage.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 Linear

$3.50

$2.91 per 10

Learn more

Akko Penguin Tactile

$4.22

$3.10 per 10

Learn more