HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the KTT Phalaenopsis mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts are presented with two distinct options catering to different preferences. The Hyacinth V2, a linear switch, is renowned for its deep 'clack' sound and seamless blend of sound and performance. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis, a tactile switch, offers a light actuation force of 37g and a satisfying tactile bump for a delightful typing experience. While the Hyacinth V2 excels in providing a resonant auditory feedback, the Phalaenopsis prioritizes comfort and ease of typing. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 22mm Korean spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In terms of housing materials, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the KTT Phalaenopsis both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2 features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Phalaenopsis.
While both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing, the differences arise in their bottom housing materials. The Hyacinth V2's nylon bottom housing offers a unique typing experience with its deep and full sound profile, thanks to the material's softness and sound-absorption properties. In contrast, the Phalaenopsis's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile, aligning with the characteristics of the top housing material. This contrast in bottom housing materials highlights how the choice of housing material can impact the overall sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the KTT Phalaenopsis plays a significant role in shaping their sound profiles and typing experiences. While they both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, the difference in bottom housing materials results in distinct sound characteristics. The Hyacinth V2's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, while the Phalaenopsis's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound. Understanding the impact of housing materials on switch performance can help keyboard enthusiasts make informed choices based on their preferences for sound and typing feel.
Weight
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offer different experiences in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Hyacinth V2 has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Phalaenopsis which has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Hyacinth V2 requires 52 grams while the Phalaenopsis needs 50 grams, making them both relatively similar in this aspect. Weight is an important factor to consider as lighter switches like the Phalaenopsis allow for longer typing sessions without fatigue, ideal for work or gaming. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the Hyacinth V2 provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Phalaenopsis tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance. 3.5 mm is a bit shorter than the more traditional 4.0 mm travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a faster response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Phalaenopsis switch may be preferred by those who enjoy a deeper key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and tactile feedback.
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 KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
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 Hyacinth V2 offers a clacky experience with a sharp and snappy sound profile that is described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis switches provide a bassy and thocky sound that offers a deeper and richer tone during keystrokes, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Both switches offer unique auditory feedback, with the Hyacinth V2 focusing on a sharp clack and the Phalaenopsis offering a deeper and more satisfying sound.
In terms of feel, the Hyacinth V2 is known for its creamy, frictionless, polished, and silky typing experience, providing a smooth and effortless sensation with each keystroke. It offers a polished finish that enhances the overall typing feel and minimizes friction, allowing for a sleek and refined experience. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis switches are described as stepped, with a tactile feel that provides a two-stage sensation with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. This unique feel offers a more gradual and mild tactile feedback compared to the sharper tactile bump of other switches.
Overall, both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Hyacinth V2 provides a clacky sound and a smooth, polished typing experience, the Phalaenopsis switches offer a bassy and thocky sound with a stepped tactile feel. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, users can choose between the sharp and snappy feedback of the Hyacinth V2 or the deeper and more gradual tactile sensation of the Phalaenopsis switches to enhance their typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom out force and sound and feel characteristics. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a deep 'clack' sound with a creamy and frictionless feel, the Hyacinth V2 linear switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a bassy, thocky sound with a stepped tactile feel, the Phalaenopsis tactile switch could be more suitable for your typing style. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable to you as you type on your mechanical keyboard.
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