HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the SP-Star Polaris Gray, both of which are linear switches. The Hyacinth V2 is renowned for its crisp top-out sound and deep 'clack', providing enthusiasts with a satisfying auditory experience. In comparison, the Polaris Gray is favored for its bouncy typing feel and clean, clacky sound profile. While the Hyacinth V2 offers a seamless blend of sound and performance, the Polaris Gray provides a more neutral and polished typing experience. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the SP-Star Polaris Gray, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing. This commonality results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for optimal RGB lighting effects, making it a practical choice for those looking to customize their keyboard aesthetics. However, the key difference lies in the bottom housing material. The Hyacinth V2 features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray's polycarbonate bottom housing continues the trend of creating a clear and resonant sound profile, albeit with a different level of softness and absorption.
While both switches offer similar sound profiles with their polycarbonate top housing, the contrast between the nylon bottom housing of the Hyacinth V2 and the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Polaris Gray becomes apparent. The nylon bottom housing of the Hyacinth V2 contributes to a rounder and duller sound, emphasizing a deeper typing experience. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Polaris Gray maintains the sharp and crisp sound profile, showcasing a more resonant and clear typing sensation. This difference in bottom housing material may lead to distinct typing experiences for users, with the Hyacinth V2 offering a softer touch and the Polaris Gray providing a firmer keystroke feel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the SP-Star Polaris Gray hinges on individual preferences for typing sound and feel. While both switches share the benefits of a polycarbonate top housing, the divergence in bottom housing material sets them apart in terms of sound profile and typing experience. Whether one prefers the deeper and fuller sound of the nylon bottom housing in the Hyacinth V2 or the sharper and crisper sound of the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Polaris Gray, each switch offers a unique typing sensation that caters to different user preferences. In the end, users can choose between the two based on their desired typing sound and feel to enhance their overall keyboarding experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch have noticeable differences. The Hyacinth V2 has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Polaris Gray, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Hyacinth V2 is also lighter at 52 grams, whereas the Polaris Gray has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams. These variations in force make the Hyacinth V2 more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, while the Polaris Gray is better suited for individuals who prefer a more substantial keystroke feel. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience and comfort level for users, with lighter forces allowing for longer typing sessions and heavier forces providing a more solid typing experience.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. Despite the small difference in travel distance, both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. The Hyacinth V2 may provide a slightly quicker feel due to its shorter travel distance, while the Polaris Gray may offer a slightly more substantial key press with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference for either a quicker response or a more solid key press sensation.
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 SP-Star Polaris Gray has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Gray for $5.00.
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 distinctively clacky experience, known for its sharp, bright, and percussive sound when pressed. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray provides a clean and clacky sound profile, with a low-pitched and thocky tone that is more bass-heavy and mellow. Depending on your preference, the Hyacinth V2 offers a sharper and more resonant sound, while the Polaris Gray delivers a deeper and richer tone, both providing a satisfying auditory feedback for different typing styles.
When it comes to feel, the Hyacinth V2 is praised for its creamy, frictionless, and polished typing experience, offering smooth and effortless key presses with a silky sensation and snappy responsiveness. In comparison, the SP-Star Polaris Gray provides a mild and polished typing experience, giving a gentle and approachable feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Hyacinth V2 excels in providing a luxurious and responsive typing experience, while the Polaris Gray offers a more laid-back and comfortable feel for extended typing sessions.
Overall, both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. Depending on your preference for a sharper and more resonant sound with a luxurious typing experience, the Hyacinth V2 is a top choice. Conversely, if you prefer a deeper and richer sound with a gentle and approachable typing feel, the Polaris Gray is a solid option. Remember that personal preference plays a key role in selecting the perfect switch for your keyboard setup, so consider trying out both switches to see which one suits your typing style best.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prioritize a crisp and resonant sound with a creamy and frictionless feel, the Hyacinth V2 may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy typing experience with a clean and clacky sound profile, the Polaris Gray switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on how each switch aligns with your personal preferences for sound and feel.
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