HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring are two popular mechanical keyboard switches, each offering unique features to cater to different preferences. The Hyacinth V2 is a linear switch loved for its crisp top-out sound and deep 'clack', providing enthusiasts with a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is a tactile switch known for its medium-high level of tactility and deep, resonating thocks while typing. Both switches are categorized with similar attributes such as being clacky, snappy, and providing a satisfying typing experience. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
No
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
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, one can see that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for users who prefer a more distinct typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visual appeal to the switches. However, the Hyacinth V2 stands out with its nylon bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder typing experience.
While the top housing of both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring promotes a sharper sound profile due to their polycarbonate construction, the differences lie in their bottom housings. The Hyacinth V2's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, providing a unique typing experience. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharp and crisp sound profile, offering a more distinct typing feel. This variation in bottom housing material showcases how the design choices can impact the overall sound and feel of a switch, catering to different preferences among users.
In terms of ergonomics and overall typing experience, the choice between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring ultimately comes down to personal preference. The split between nylon and polycarbonate in the housing materials of the Hyacinth V2 creates a blend of deep and sharp sounds, appealing to users who enjoy a variety of typing sensations. On the other hand, the uniformity of polycarbonate in the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring results in a more consistent and crisper sound profile, catering to those who prefer a well-defined typing experience. Regardless of the differences in housing materials, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience for enthusiasts and casual users alike.
Weight
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch both have their own unique characteristics when it comes to actuation force and bottom out force. The Hyacinth V2 is lighter, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, providing a medium-light typing experience. In comparison, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is slightly heavier, with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, giving it a medium typing experience. Both switches offer a different feel when typing, with the Hyacinth V2 being lighter and potentially more comfortable for longer typing sessions, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring providing a bit more resistance for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Hyacinth V2 offers a quicker and more responsive typing experience, which may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch provides a deeper and more substantial key press, which some users may find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring for $3.57.
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 offers a distinctive clacky experience, providing a sharp and snappy sound that resonates with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch also delivers a clacky sound, but with an added high-pitched tone that adds a crisp and bright element to the auditory feedback. Both switches excel in providing a satisfying sound profile, making them ideal choices for users who appreciate a pronounced acoustic experience.
Turning to feel, the Hyacinth V2 is described as offering a creamy, frictionless, and polished typing experience, thanks to its smooth and refined construction. This switch also provides a silky sensation and snappy responsiveness, further enhancing the overall feel of typing on it. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is characterized by its sharp and accented tactile feedback, offering a strong and crisp tactile bump with each press. Additionally, users can expect a bouncy and stepped sensation when typing on this switch, providing a unique tactile experience. Both switches offer distinct tactile feedback, catering to users who prefer different levels of tactility in their switches.
In conclusion, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch each bring their own unique qualities to the table. While the Hyacinth V2 excels in providing a clacky sound and a smooth, polished feel, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch delivers a high-pitched sound and sharp, accented tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and feel, with both options offering a satisfying typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering which switch to choose between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for sound and feel. If you value a deep, resonant 'clack' sound with a medium-light bottom out force, the Hyacinth V2 may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-high level of tactility and a crisp, high-pitched sound with a slightly higher bottom out force, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring could be the ideal option. Consider your typing style and the auditory feedback you desire to make an informed decision between these two exceptional mechanical keyboard switches.
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