HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the TTC Silent Brown offer distinct experiences for keyboard enthusiasts. The Hyacinth V2, a linear switch, is lauded for its crisp top-out sound and deep 'clack' that provides a resonant and satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown, a tactile switch, boasts a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a rounded tactile bump for added feedback. While the Hyacinth V2 excels in providing a seamless blend of sound and performance, the Silent Brown stands out for its muted sound profile. Ultimately, the Hyacinth V2 may appeal to those who prioritize auditory feedback and performance, while the Silent Brown could be a great choice for those seeking a quieter 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
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 22mm Korean spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the TTC Silent Brown share several similarities, as both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed to work with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the switches differ in their bottom housing materials, with the Hyacinth V2 boasting a nylon bottom housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound.
While both the Hyacinth V2 and the Silent Brown feature polycarbonate top housings with similar sound profiles and aesthetic benefits, the choice of nylon for the bottom housing sets them apart in terms of sound and feel. The Hyacinth V2's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when typing, whereas the Silent Brown's nylon bottom housing offers a similar experience. However, the split in housing materials means that the bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing has more influence on the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, the housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the TTC Silent Brown play a significant role in shaping the typing experience for users. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharper sound profile and aesthetic appeal, the difference in bottom housing materials introduces subtle variations in sound and feel. The nylon bottom housing of the Hyacinth V2 produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the Silent Brown offers a similar experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Hyacinth V2 has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Silent Brown, which also requires 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Hyacinth V2 is lighter at 52 grams, while the Silent Brown is heavier at 63.5 grams. This means that the Hyacinth V2 provides a medium-light typing experience, while the Silent Brown offers a medium-heavy feel. Those who prefer a softer touch may lean towards the Hyacinth V2 for longer typing sessions, while those looking for a more substantial typing experience may choose the Silent Brown for a stronger push feel. Both switches provide unique experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, offering options for different preferences among keyboard users.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Hyacinth V2 has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Silent Brown, which may appeal to those looking for a faster response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Silent Brown's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and how it affects the overall typing experience. Overall, both switches offer a different feel due to their slight difference in travel distance, but users can expect similar results in terms of keypress actuation.
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 TTC Silent Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Brown for $3.68.
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 offers a clacky experience with a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown provides a muted sound profile that is softer and quieter compared to a regular or clacky switch, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Depending on your choice of board and keycaps, the sound of the switch can further be influenced.
When it comes to feel, the Hyacinth V2 is described as offering a creamy and frictionless typing experience with a polished and silky sensation. This switch provides smooth and effortless typing, with a fluid travel that enhances the overall keystroke experience. In contrast, the TTC Silent Brown offers a buttery and mild typing experience with a polished finish that results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Silent Brown switch falls in a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of feel, providing a comfortable and approachable typing sensation.
Considering the available information, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 excels in providing a clacky and resonant sound profile, along with a creamy and polished feel that offers a seamless and buttery typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown showcases a muted sound profile and a buttery, mild, and polished feel that caters to a comfortable typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, appealing to different preferences and typing styles. If you prefer a more pronounced and percussive sound, the Hyacinth V2 would be the ideal choice, while the Silent Brown provides a quieter typing experience with a smoother and gentler feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, consider the factors of sound and feel. If you value a crisp, clacky sound with a creamy, frictionless feel, the Hyacinth V2 may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a muted sound profile with a buttery, polished feel, the Silent Brown could be the perfect fit for your typing preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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