HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the SP-Star Polaris Purple stand out as popular choices. The Hyacinth V2, a linear switch, is renowned for its crisp top-out sound and deep 'clack' that provides a satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple, a tactile switch, offers a strong tactile bump for an exhilarating typing experience and a snappy sound profile. While the Hyacinth V2 excels in blending sound and performance, the Polaris Purple stands out for its tactile feel and polished sound. 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 Purple, it is evident that they both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both keyboards. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the keyboards. However, the Hyacinth V2 features a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Polaris Purple utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which maintains the sharp and clear sound profile associated with this material.
The differences in bottom housing materials between the Hyacinth V2 and the Polaris Purple are notable. While the Hyacinth V2's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharp and clear sound associated with this material. This contrast in sound profiles highlights how the choice of bottom housing material can impact the overall typing experience and the resulting audio feedback. Despite these differences, both keyboards still provide a high-quality sound experience that is uniquely shaped by their respective housing materials.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in keyboards like the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the SP-Star Polaris Purple plays a crucial role in shaping the sound profile and typing experience. While both keyboards feature polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and clear sound profile, the differences in bottom housing materials lead to variations in sound depth and fullness. These distinctions demonstrate how the combination of different housing materials can impact the overall sound experience when typing on a keyboard. Whether it is a softer nylon bottom housing for a fuller sound or a stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing for a sharper sound, the housing materials chosen can greatly influence the overall typing experience.
Weight
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Hyacinth V2 requires 52 grams, which is lighter than the Polaris Purple's 67 grams. This means that the Hyacinth V2 provides a smoother typing experience with less force needed to activate a key press, while the Polaris Purple offers a more substantial feel with a heavier bottom out force. Users who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of use may lean towards the Hyacinth V2, while those who enjoy a heavier key press may find the Polaris Purple more to their liking. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Polaris Purple the longer of the two switches, with the Hyacinth V2 being the shorter. The difference in travel distance may not seem significant, but for those who prefer a more responsive typing or gaming experience, the shorter travel distance of the Hyacinth V2 may be preferred. On the other hand, those who enjoy a deeper key press sensation may opt for the longer travel distance of the Polaris Purple. Both switches offer unique advantages, so ultimately the choice between them will depend on individual preferences and typing styles.
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 Purple 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 Purple 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 clacky experience with a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple provides a more neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and settings. The Hyacinth V2's deep 'clack' stands out for enthusiasts looking for a resonant acoustic experience, while the Polaris Purple's snappy sound profile offers a satisfying typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Hyacinth V2 is known for its creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy attributes, resulting in a smooth and buttery typing experience with minimal resistance and a fluid key travel. In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Purple offers a milder typing experience with a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches provide a comfortable and approachable typing feel, catering to different preferences in tactile feedback.
Overall, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the SP-Star Polaris Purple offer distinct qualities in both sound and feel. The Hyacinth V2 excels in providing a deep and clacky sound with a smooth and snappy typing experience, perfect for enthusiasts seeking a top-notch auditory feedback. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple offers a neutral sound profile and a milder tactile feel, making it a versatile choice for a wider range of users and environments. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel in mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you prioritize a crisp and deep 'clack' sound with a medium-light bottom out force, the Hyacinth V2 may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile typing experience with a snappy sound profile and a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Polaris Purple is worth considering. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preference for sound and feel, so choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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