HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Hyacinth V2 stands out for its crisp top-out sound and deep 'clack', providing an immersive auditory experience for keyboard enthusiasts looking for a blend of sound and performance. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear offers a whisper-quiet top-out sound while maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound, showcasing innovation in the realm of mechanical switches. If you prioritize a more resonant and satisfying acoustic feedback, the Hyacinth V2 may be the ideal choice for you. However, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience without sacrificing key feel, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear might be the better option. 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
62g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 22mm Korean spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material's stiffness contributes to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the overall design. In terms of sound, the top housing material plays a significant role in the overall typing experience, impacting the sound when a key is released.
On the other hand, the housing materials differ when it comes to the bottom housing. The Hyacinth V2 utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This soft plastic material absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. Similarly, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear also features a nylon bottom housing, emphasizing the importance of this material in shaping the overall sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing material plays a crucial role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
Overall, while the top housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear are the same, their respective bottom housing materials differ, contributing to unique sound profiles for each switch. The qualities each housing material brings, whether it be the stiffer polycarbonate or the softer nylon, are split between the top and bottom of the switch, affecting both the sound upon key press and release. These differences in housing materials offer users a variety of options to choose from based on their preferred sound and typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, it is clear that the Hyacinth V2 is the lighter option with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, while the Semi-Silent Linear is the heavier option with a bottom out force of 62 grams. The actuation force of the Semi-Silent Linear is not specified. The Hyacinth V2 provides a medium-light typing experience, making it ideal for longer typing sessions and gaming. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear offers a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force. Both switches aim to cater to different preferences in actuation and bottom out forces, providing users with the opportunity to choose based on their typing style and preference for keypress feedback.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. The Hyacinth V2 offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Semi-Silent Linear switch. This means that the Hyacinth V2 may provide a slightly faster response time for users who prefer a quicker key press. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feeling when pressing down on the keys. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing or gaming experience. Both switches offer unique characteristics, but the difference in travel distance may result in slightly different typing or gaming experiences for users.
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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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 has been lauded for its distinct and crisp 'clack' sound upon actuation, delivering a resonant and satisfying auditory experience for users seeking depth in their keyboard feedback. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch offers a semi-silent operation, producing a whisper-quiet top-out sound while still maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. This unique combination provides a more subdued and subtle sound signature compared to most switches. Depending on personal preferences, users can opt for the Hyacinth V2 for a more pronounced and resonant auditory feedback or the Semi-Silent Linear for a quieter and more discreet typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch is described as offering a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience. With its smooth and buttery sensation, minimal resistance, and enhanced responsiveness, users can expect a luxurious and effortless keystroke feel. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch provides a mild, snappy, buttery, and polished typing experience. This gentle and approachable feel caters to a wider range of users, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with reduced friction and enhanced key travel. Whether users prefer a more pronounced or a more subtle typing feel, both switches provide unique qualities to enhance the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Hyacinth V2 focuses on delivering a crisp and resonant 'clack' sound with a creamy and snappy typing feel, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear provides a semi-silent operation with a mild and buttery typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences and requirements, allowing users to choose between a more pronounced auditory feedback or a quieter typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel in their mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch or the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, you should take into account your preferences for sound and feel. If you enjoy a clacky top-out sound with a seamless blend of sound and performance, the Hyacinth V2 would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a semi-silent topping-out sound with a silky smooth feel, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch may be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you value most, whether it's the deep 'clack' of the Hyacinth V2 or the whisper-quiet yet clacky feel of the Semi-Silent Linear.
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