HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
In the realm of mechanical keyboard switches, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and Sarokeys Purple Sakura stand out as exemplary choices, each offering a unique typing experience. The Hyacinth V2, a linear switch, is lauded for its crisp top-out sound and resonant 'clack', providing a satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura, a tactile switch, boasts a snappy response and a buttery downstroke that strikes a delicate balance of tactility without being overwhelming. While the Hyacinth V2 leans towards a more clacky and polished typing feel, the Purple Sakura offers a buttery and mild typing experience. Both switches have their own strengths and qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 22mm Korean spring
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for a more clear and resonant sound, especially when combined with RGB lighting due to its translucency. This means that users can expect similar sound characteristics when typing on either of these keyboards.
However, where these two keyboards differ is in their bottom housing material. The Hyacinth V2 utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura also features a nylon bottom housing, providing similar sound characteristics to the Hyacinth V2. This means that despite having different top housings, the nylon bottom housings of both keyboards contribute to a similar typing experience.
It is important to note that the qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This means that while both the Hyacinth V2 and the Purple Sakura may have different overall sound profiles due to their housing materials, users can still expect a comparable typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, it is clear that the Hyacinth V2 is lighter in terms of actuation and bottom out force. The Hyacinth V2 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it a medium-light switch overall. In contrast, the Purple Sakura has a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, placing it in the medium category. Both switches provide a different typing experience due to their force requirements; the lighter actuation force of the Hyacinth V2 allows for longer typing sessions, while the heavier force of the Purple Sakura provides a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on the user's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm standard. Gamers may prefer the Hyacinth V2 for its slightly shorter travel distance, which can result in faster response times during intense gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Purple Sakura with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a quicker and more responsive key press or a more deliberate and satisfying typing experience.
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 Sarokeys Purple Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Sakura for $3.15.
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
In terms of sound, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch is known for its distinct 'clacky' sound, providing a sharp and percussive auditory feedback with each key press. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch offers a more neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various settings without being too overpowering. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Hyacinth V2 focusing on a crisp and bright tone, while the Purple Sakura aims for a mild and gentle sound experience.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Hyacinth V2 is described as offering a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience, ensuring a smooth and effortless keystroke with minimal resistance. In contrast, the Purple Sakura switch is known for its buttery, mild, and snappy feel, providing a seamless and uniform typing sensation that is gentle and approachable. While both switches exhibit snappy characteristics, the Hyacinth V2 emphasizes smoothness and responsiveness through its creamy and silky attributes, while the Purple Sakura focuses on a more buttery and mild typing experience.
In conclusion, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch stands out for its clacky sound and creamy, frictionless feel, offering a satisfying auditory and tactile experience for keyboard enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch provides a neutral sound profile and a buttery, mild feel, creating a pleasant typing sensation that is suitable for a wide range of users. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer distinct qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience, ensuring that users will find satisfaction in their choice regardless of the option they go with.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch or the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and intended use. If you are looking for a keyboard switch that offers a crisp, deep 'clack' sound with a medium-light bottom out force, then the Hyacinth V2 may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a snappy response and a buttery downstroke, along with a medium bottom out force, the Purple Sakura could be the better option. Both switches have their unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so consider your typing style and preferences when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Hyacinth V2 and Purple Sakura switches will depend on what type of typing experience you are seeking.