HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 vs. Durock Sea Glass
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Durock Sea Glass switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options are the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Durock Sea Glass, both linear switches that offer unique characteristics. The Hyacinth V2 is favored for its crisp top-out sound and resonant 'clack', providing enthusiasts with a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Sea Glass switch series by Durock stands out for its pastel colors and proprietary material blend that offers a dry, smooth typing experience with a weightless feel. While the Hyacinth V2 is known for its blend of sound and performance, the Sea Glass switches provide a frictionless, hollow sound signature. 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
62g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
P3+
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
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 Durock Sea Glass, it is clear that they both offer unique sound profiles and aesthetic qualities. The Hyacinth V2's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffness and translucency which is ideal for RGB lighting. In contrast, the Sea Glass's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing offers a more pleasant and brighter sound profile. While both materials have their own distinct characteristics, they cater to different preferences in sound and aesthetics.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Hyacinth V2's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switches. Similarly, the Sea Glass's blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE in the bottom housing offers a unique sound profile that is pleasant and slightly brighter. Despite the differences in materials used, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience with their respective bottom housing materials contributing to the overall sound and feel of the switch.
Overall, while the housing materials of the Hyacinth V2 and Sea Glass switches differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles, they both aim to provide an enjoyable and unique typing experience. Whether it be the sharper and crisper sound of the Hyacinth V2's polycarbonate top housing, or the pleasant and slightly brighter sound of the Sea Glass's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing, these switches offer users a variety of options to cater to their preferences in sound and aesthetics. Ultimately, both switches are designed to enhance the overall typing experience and showcase the innovation and creativity in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, we can see that both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Hyacinth V2 is lighter at 52 grams compared to the Sea Glass at 62 grams, making the Sea Glass the heavier option. The Hyacinth V2 offers a medium-light typing experience, while the Sea Glass provides a medium typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter typing feel for extended use may lean towards the Hyacinth V2, while those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Sea Glass. Both switches offer distinct weight options, catering to different preferences for typing and gaming experiences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, it is evident that the Sea Glass has a longer travel distance of 3.8 mm compared to the Hyacinth V2's travel distance of 3.5 mm. While both switches fall within the category of shorter travel distances, the slight variation of 0.3 mm may not be significant to some users. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Hyacinth V2 with its slightly shorter travel distance. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Sea Glass with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
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 Durock Sea Glass has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Glass for $4.87.
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 Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch is best described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Durock Sea Glass linear switch offers a uniquely hollow sound signature due to its distinct dryness and airiness. While the Hyacinth V2 provides a deep 'clack' for those seeking a resonant and satisfying acoustic experience, the Sea Glass switches offer a lighter and more ethereal typing sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for either a sharp and crisp sound or a lighter and wispier sound during typing sessions.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Hyacinth V2 is known for its creamy, frictionless, polished, and silky typing experience. This means users can expect a smooth and buttery sensation with minimal resistance or friction when pressing the keys. In contrast, the Durock Sea Glass switches offer a frictionless, mild, feathery, and easy-to-press feel, emphasizing a gentle and effortless typing experience with reduced finger fatigue. Both switches prioritize smoothness in their design, providing users with a comfortable typing experience that enhances overall performance.
In conclusion, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and Durock Sea Glass linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Hyacinth V2 excels in providing a clacky sound with a creamy and polished feel, the Sea Glass switches stand out for their hollow sound signature and light, feathery typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will come down to personal preference for sound profile and typing feel. However, both switches promise a high-quality typing experience that prioritizes smoothness and performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, you should consider the following factors. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and value a clacky sound with a creamy, frictionless, and polished feel, then the Hyacinth V2 might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a medium bottom out force and seek a unique typing experience with a hollow sound and a frictionless, mild, feathery, and easy-to-press feel, then the Sea Glass could be the switch for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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