HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to linear mechanical keyboard switches, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and Jerrzi Salt Ice are both popular options, each offering unique features that cater to different preferences. The Hyacinth V2 stands out for its crisp top-out sound and deep 'clack', providing a satisfying auditory experience for users who appreciate a blend of sound and performance. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switches are known for their bright and clacky characteristics, along with a light touch that results in a vibrant and energetic typing experience. While both switches excel in their own ways, it ultimately comes down to personal preference when choosing between the two. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 22mm Korean spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Jerrzi Salt Ice, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that include RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the keyboards they are used in. In terms of sound and feel, the top housing material plays a significant role in the overall typing experience, impacting the sound when a key is released.
However, where the two switches differ is in the bottom housing material. The Hyacinth V2 utilizes nylon for the bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Jerrzi Salt Ice's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known for its softer properties, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound when compared to the relatively stiffer polycarbonate. This difference in bottom housing material results in varying typing experiences between the two switches, with the bottom housing material influencing the bottom-out sound and feel of each key press.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for a switch plays a crucial role in determining its sound profile and feel. While both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Jerrzi Salt Ice share a polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and clear sound, the difference in bottom housing materials, with the Hyacinth V2 using nylon and the Salt Ice using polycarbonate, leads to distinct typing experiences. Understanding the impact of each housing material on sound and feel can help keyboard enthusiasts make informed decisions when selecting switches for their setups.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, it is evident that both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Hyacinth V2 has a bottom out force of 52 grams, while the Salt Ice's bottom out force is unknown. The Hyacinth V2 can be considered medium-light due to its slightly higher bottom out force, providing a balance between typing comfort and feedback. On the other hand, the Salt Ice's bottom out force being unavailable makes it difficult to determine its weight, but it may potentially result in a lighter typing experience. Individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience might lean towards the Salt Ice, while those who enjoy a slightly heavier typing feel may opt for the Hyacinth V2. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces play a crucial role in determining the overall feel and performance of a switch, catering to the preferences of the user.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter end of the spectrum when it comes to travel distances, making them ideal for those seeking quicker response times, such as gamers. The slight difference in travel distance between the two switches is negligible, and users are likely to experience similar results in terms of key feel and actuation. In general, if you prefer a switch with a slightly longer travel distance, the Hyacinth V2 may be the better choice, but if you favor a slightly shorter travel distance, the Salt Ice switch may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of travel distance and responsiveness.
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 Jerrzi Salt Ice has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Salt Ice for $2.30.
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 is known for its deep 'clack' sound, offering a resonant and satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches are described as exceptionally bright and clacky, providing a vibrant feedback with a light touch. Both switches aim to provide a pleasant sound experience, but the Hyacinth V2 offers a deeper and more resonant tone compared to the Salt Ice.
When it comes to feel, the Hyacinth V2 is praised for its creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy qualities, offering a smooth and effortless typing experience. These attributes contribute to a refined and sleek typing feel, enhancing the overall smoothness of keystrokes. On the other hand, the specific feel characteristics of the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches are not provided in the information provided.
Overall, while the Hyacinth V2 linear switch emphasizes a deep and crisp sound with a creamy and polished typing feel, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch focuses on providing a bright and clacky sound with a light touch. Depending on your preference for sound and typing feel, each switch offers a unique experience that caters to different user preferences. If you enjoy a resonant sound and smooth keystrokes, the Hyacinth V2 would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a brighter sound with a light touch, the Salt Ice may be more appealing. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance in their respective sound and feel characteristics, providing a satisfying typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when looking to choose between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, consider the characteristics that best suit your typing preferences. If you enjoy a crisp top-out sound and a resonant, satisfying acoustic experience, the Hyacinth V2 with its medium-light bottom out force of 52 grams may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer exceptionally bright and clacky switches with a light touch, the Salt Ice could provide you with an energetic and responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to your personal preference for sound and feel during typing sessions. Choose the switch that best complements your style and enhances your overall typing satisfaction.
Mentioned in this article
