HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 vs. TTC Silent Frozen (V2)
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) 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 Frozen (V2) both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Hyacinth V2 is a linear switch that is well-regarded for its crisp top-out sound and satisfying 'clack', making it a top choice for enthusiasts seeking a keyboard with excellent auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen (V2) is also a linear switch known for its extremely quiet sound profile and smooth, pillowy feel. While the Hyacinth V2 offers a blend of sound and performance, the Silent Frozen (V2) provides a more subtle, buttery 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
39g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 22mm Korean spring
Spring
Silver white spring
Housing materials
Overall, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which creates a more resonant sound. However, the Hyacinth V2 features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Silent Frozen (V2). The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of aesthetics, both switches benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate in their top housing, making them ideal for use with RGB lighting. However, the differences in bottom housing material between the two switches can impact the overall sound experience when typing. The split qualities of the bottom and top housing materials mean that the bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This distinction creates a unique typing experience for each switch, with the Hyacinth V2 offering a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its nylon bottom housing compared to the crisper sound of the Silent Frozen (V2) with its polycarbonate bottom housing.
Ultimately, while both switches share the benefits of polycarbonate in their top housing, the differing bottom housing materials of nylon and polycarbonate offer contrasting sound profiles. Choosing between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) will depend on whether you prefer a deeper and fuller sound profile with the nylon bottom housing or a sharper and crisper sound profile with the polycarbonate bottom housing. Both switches offer unique typing experiences based on their housing materials, providing options for keyboard enthusiasts looking for distinct sound profiles in their mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch which has an actuation force of 39 grams, making the Silent Frozen (V2) lighter in this aspect. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Hyacinth V2 has a heavier force of 52 grams compared to the Silent Frozen (V2) which bottoms out at 43 grams, making the Hyacinth V2 the heavier option in this regard. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) due to its lighter actuation and bottom out force, while users who enjoy a more substantial keystroke may opt for the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their preferences for typing feel.
Travel distance
Both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switches have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two switches, it can be noted that they both offer a consistent travel distance that provides a similar typing experience. As a result, users can expect to get similar results in terms of keypress feel and overall performance when using either switch. Although they may have different features and characteristics, the travel distance of 3.5 mm ensures that both switches offer a comfortable typing experience 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 TTC Silent Frozen (V2) has an MSRP of $8.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Frozen (V2) for $5.33.
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 offers a clacky and sharp sound when pressed, providing a crisp and resonant acoustic experience that is satisfying to enthusiasts seeking depth in their keyboard's auditory feedback. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch produces a thocky, low-pitched, and muted sound, creating a deep, rich, and satisfying tone that minimizes noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. The sound profiles of these switches offer distinct experiences, with the Hyacinth V2 emphasizing a bright and percussive sound, while the Silent Frozen (V2) focuses on a deeper and quieter tone.
When considering the feel of the switches, both the Hyacinth V2 and Silent Frozen (V2) are described as offering a creamy and smooth typing experience. The Hyacinth V2 provides a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy feel, allowing for effortless keystrokes and enhanced responsiveness. Likewise, the Silent Frozen (V2) switch presents a creamy, buttery, feathery, subtle, and polished feel, delivering a smooth and fluid typing sensation with reduced resistance and strain on the fingers. Both switches prioritize a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, making them suitable for extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch excels in delivering a sharp and clacky sound paired with a creamy and polished typing feel, focusing on a bright and percussive auditory feedback and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch offers a thocky and muted sound alongside a creamy and feathery typing experience, emphasizing a deep and rich tone with minimal noise. While each switch has its unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, enthusiasts can expect similar levels of smoothness and comfort when using either the Hyacinth V2 or the Silent Frozen (V2) switches for their mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switches, consider your preferences in sound and feel. If you value a clacky and resonant sound with a creamy, frictionless feel, the Hyacinth V2 may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a thocky, low-pitched sound with a creamy, buttery feel that is exceptionally light to press, the Silent Frozen (V2) switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking.
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