HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Gateron Silent Ink Black are both linear switches, but they offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Hyacinth V2 is celebrated for its crisp 'clack' sound and deep resonance, making it a top choice for those who appreciate a satisfying auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black is designed for quieter environments, providing a cushiony bottom-out feel with minimal sound feedback. While the Hyacinth V2 boasts a blend of sound and performance, the Silent Ink Black focuses on offering a smooth and muted 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
60g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 22mm Korean spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Gateron Silent Ink Black, one key difference lies in the top housing material. The Hyacinth V2 features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. This makes the switch ideal for users looking for a clear and resonant sound, especially when paired with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black utilizes a proprietary INK blend top housing, characterized by a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the Hyacinth V2's polycarbonate housing may provide a slightly clearer and more resonant sound compared to the INK blend used in the Silent Ink Black.
When it comes to the bottom housing material, another point of comparison between the two switches emerges. The Hyacinth V2 utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Conversely, the Silent Ink Black features the same proprietary INK blend material in its bottom housing as it does in the top housing. This once again highlights the pointed and high-pitched sound profile characteristic of the INK blend, offering a consistent sound experience throughout the switch.
Overall, while the Hyacinth V2 and the Gateron Silent Ink Black both offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials, they do share some similarities. If both switches were to have the same housing materials, the resulting sound profile would have consistent characteristics throughout the entire switch. Regardless of the specific materials used, the top housing will have a noticeable impact on the sound when a key is released, while the bottom housing will influence the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. Ultimately, each switch's housing material contributes to its overall sound profile and typing experience, giving users a variety of options to choose from based on their preferences.
Weight
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Hyacinth V2 at 52 grams is lighter than the Silent Ink Black at 70 grams. This means that the Hyacinth V2 provides a lighter typing experience overall compared to the Silent Ink Black, which offers a more substantial push feel. Those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming may lean towards the Hyacinth V2, while those looking for a more pronounced typing experience may prefer the Silent Ink Black. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Silent Ink Black has a longer travel distance compared to the Hyacinth V2. The difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the typing experience for some users. A shorter travel distance, like the one on the Hyacinth V2, may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times, while a longer travel distance, like the one on the Silent Ink Black, may provide a more substantial and satisfying keystroke feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. Both switches offer quality linear switches with smooth keypresses, so users can expect similar results in terms of performance and durability.
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 Gateron Silent Ink Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Ink Black for $8.35.
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 distinctive deep 'clack' that provides a resonant and satisfying auditory experience, ideal for those who appreciate a crisp and percussive sound when typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch is designed for quieter environments, offering a muted sound that minimizes noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Depending on personal preference and environmental factors, users can choose between the clacky feedback of the Hyacinth V2 or the more subdued sound of the Silent Ink Black.
Moving on to feel, the Hyacinth V2 is described with descriptors such as 'creamy', 'frictionless', 'polished', 'silky', and 'snappy', highlighting its smooth and effortless typing experience. The combination of these qualities results in a switch that offers a refined and fluid key travel, enhancing the overall typing feel for users. Similarly, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch is also described as 'silky' and 'polished', indicating a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and effortless key travel. Both switches prioritize a smooth typing experience, providing users with a comfortable and satisfying typing feel.
Considering the available information, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Hyacinth V2 excels in providing a clacky and resonant sound, coupled with a creamy and snappy typing feel, the Silent Ink Black prioritizes a muted sound and silky, polished typing experience suitable for quiet environments. Depending on personal preference for sound feedback and typing feel, users can choose between these switches to tailor their mechanical keyboard experience to their liking. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance and cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, consider the following factors. If you value a distinctive deep 'clack' sound with a resonant and satisfying auditory experience, the Hyacinth V2 would be a great choice. Its creamy, frictionless, and polished feel offers a smooth and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a silenced switch for quieter environments with a cushioned bottom-out feel and minimal audio feedback, the Silent Ink Black would be more suitable. It provides a silky and polished typing experience, minimizing resistance and enhancing smoothness. Ultimately, your preference for sound, feel, and typing environment will guide you towards the switch that best suits your needs and preferences.
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