HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offer unique experiences for enthusiasts seeking different qualities in their typing experience. The Hyacinth V2 is a linear switch loved for its long stem pole that produces a crisp top-out sound with a deep 'clack', providing a satisfying auditory feedback that stands out for its blend of sound and performance. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility, featuring a lower actuation and bottom-out force for a very approachable typing experience. While the Hyacinth V2 offers a 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', 'Polished', 'Silky', and 'Snappy' feel, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is categorized as 'Bouncy'. Each switch caters to different preferences, but delving deeper into their features can help you make the best decision for your typing needs. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
55g
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches, ideal for those looking for a clear and resonant typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switches. Despite both switches using the same material for their top housing, their individual designs and construction may create slight variations in sound and feel.
However, where the two switches differ is in their choice of bottom housing material. The Hyacinth V2 features a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This material choice creates a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper and crisper sound profile of the polycarbonate top housing. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing, aligning with the same characteristics as its top housing. This creates consistency in sound profile throughout the switch, offering a clear and resonant typing experience from top to bottom.
Overall, while both switches share the use of polycarbonate for their top housing, the choice of different bottom housing materials sets them apart in terms of sound profile and typing feel. The Hyacinth V2's nylon bottom housing provides a unique typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring maintains a consistent sharp and crisp sound profile throughout. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can select the switch that best suits their typing style and aesthetic preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, we find that both switches fall into the medium-light category. The Hyacinth V2 is slightly lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. The Hyacinth V2 requires a slightly lighter touch to trigger a keystroke but offers a similar bottom out experience when compared to the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience for those who prefer a lighter actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference for a lighter or slightly heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Hyacinth V2. With 4.0mm being the traditional travel distance, both switches fall within this range, offering a standard key press experience. However, the difference in travel distance may be noticeable to users who have a preference for either a slightly shorter or longer travel distance. Gamers looking for quicker response times may lean towards the Hyacinth V2 with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more deliberate key press may opt for the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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) Single 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) Single 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 linear switch is known for its distinctive 'clack' that offers a sharp and resonant sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is described as having a deep and thocky sound profile, providing a different auditory experience. While the Hyacinth V2 provides a clacky sound, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offers a more robust thocky sound, catering to different preferences for keyboard sound profiles.
In terms of feel, the Hyacinth V2 linear switch is praised for its creamy, frictionless, and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and effortless keystroke with minimal friction. It also provides a snappy response, adding a liveliness to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is characterized as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation with a lively feel and rebound when pressed. While the Hyacinth V2 offers a silky and snappy feel, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring provides a bouncier tactile experience, catering to different preferences for typing feel.
In conclusion, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch stands out for its clacky sound and creamy, frictionless feel, offering a seamless blend of sound and performance. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch impresses with its deep and thocky sound profile and bouncy tactile feedback, providing a different auditory and tactile experience. Depending on whether you prefer a sharp clacky sound and smooth typing experience or a deep thocky sound and bouncy tactile feedback, you can choose between these two switches to suit your preferences for mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch or the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, you should take into account your preference for sound and feel. If you prioritize a crisp and clacky sound with a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience, then the Hyacinth V2 may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a deep and thocky sound with a bouncy feedback sensation, then the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preference for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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