HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Jwick Splash Brothers both offer unique attributes that cater to different preferences. The Hyacinth V2 is renowned for its linear design, showcasing a long stem pole that produces a crisp 'top-out' sound with each keystroke. Enthusiasts appreciate its deep 'clack' noise, providing a satisfying auditory experience that seamlessly blends performance and sound. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers stand out with their shorter activation and long pole stem, delivering a great typing feel and a creamy sound signature. While the Hyacinth V2 is characterized by qualities like 'Clacky' and 'Silky', the Splash Brothers offer a different experience with attributes such as 'Neutral' and 'Bouncy'. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 22mm Korean spring
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Jwick Splash Brothers both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which creates a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, where they differ is in their bottom housing material. The Hyacinth V2 features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers also feature a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar sound experience to the Hyacinth V2.
While both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing, the contrasting nylon bottom housings of the Hyacinth V2 and the Splash Brothers offer distinct typing experiences. The nylon bottom housing of the Hyacinth V2 creates a duller and rounder sound, emphasizing the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. In comparison, the Splash Brothers' nylon bottom housing also absorbs sound well but results in a slightly different typing experience, giving off a similar deep and full sound profile.
In summary, both the Hyacinth V2 and the Splash Brothers showcase the benefits of polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharp and clear sound profile ideal for RGB lighting. However, the different nylon bottom housings offer unique typing experiences, with the Hyacinth V2 emphasizing a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Splash Brothers deliver a comparable sound profile with a slightly different feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in sound and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, it is evident that they differ in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Hyacinth V2 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it a medium-light switch. In contrast, the Splash Brothers has an actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, categorizing it as a lighter switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Splash Brothers, as it requires less force to bottom out. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2 may appeal to users who desire a bit more resistance while typing. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, ultimately providing a diverse range of options for keyboard enthusiasts.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switches both have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same level of travel distance. Users looking for a linear switch with a shorter travel distance may find these options to be suitable choices. The similarity in travel distance between the Hyacinth V2 and the Splash Brothers linear switches allows for consistent performance and feel when typing or gaming.
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 Jwick Splash Brothers comes in at $2.49 per 10 switches.
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 Hyacinth V2 linear switch from Sillyworks is well-known for its clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy auditory feedback that is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch offers a more neutral sound profile, suitable for various settings and users due to its moderate actuation force requirement and moderate sound level. Both switches offer unique sound experiences, with the Hyacinth V2 standing out for its deep 'clack' and the Splash Brothers providing a creamy sound signature.
When it comes to feel, the Hyacinth V2 switch is praised for its creamy, frictionless, polished, and silky typing experience, offering smooth and effortless key presses with reduced friction and a refined finish. Additionally, the switch is described as snappy, providing a super responsive typing feel. In comparison, the Jwick Splash Brothers switch offers a mild and approachable typing experience with a safe middle-ground feel. It also boasts a snappy and bouncy sensation, giving keys a lively rebound when pressed. Like the Hyacinth V2, the Splash Brothers features a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch each have their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Hyacinth V2 excels in providing a clacky sound profile and a smooth, buttery typing experience, while the Splash Brothers offers a more neutral sound signature and a mild, approachable feel. Both switches showcase qualities such as snappiness and a polished finish, catering to different preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, your decision should be based on your preference for sound and feel. If you prioritize a deep, clacky sound with a creamy and frictionless typing feel, the Hyacinth V2 is the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound profile with a mild and bouncy typing experience, the Splash Brothers switch would be more suitable. Consider what qualities are most important to you in a switch before making your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience based on your personal preferences.
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