HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2, a linear switch, is renowned for its crisp top-out sound and deep 'clack', providing enthusiasts with a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4, a tactile switch, offers a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump with a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation and a whisper-quiet sound profile. While the Hyacinth V2 excels in seamless sound and performance blending, the U4 stands out for its muted, low-pitched sound and sharp tactility. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
62g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 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 Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 22mm Korean spring
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Gazzew U4 have some key differences in their housing materials. The Hyacinth V2 features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic that leads to a clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the U4 uses a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, sometimes referred to as "boba plastic," which delivers a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. While the Hyacinth V2 emphasizes clarity and sharpness, the U4 focuses on depth and richness in sound.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing materials, the differences between the two switches become more apparent. The Hyacinth V2 features a nylon bottom housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. In comparison, the U4 utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, which also delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. Both switches prioritize a rich and deep sound profile, but achieve it through different materials in their bottom housings.
Although the top and bottom housings of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Gazzew U4 differ in material, they both aim to enhance the sound profile of the switch. The split between the qualities each housing material brings means that users may notice distinct differences when pressing down on the switches. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, users can expect similarly enhanced sound profiles from both switches, with the Hyacinth V2 focusing on clarity and sharpness and the Gazzew U4 emphasizing depth and richness.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch differ in terms of weight. The Hyacinth V2 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it lighter compared to the U4 which has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams. While both switches have the same actuation force, the bottom out force varies between the two. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Hyacinth V2 for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may opt for the heavier bottom out force of the U4 for a more substantial typing experience. In general, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. The Hyacinth V2 will provide a slightly shorter keystroke compared to the U4, which may appeal to those looking for a more immediate response. However, some users may find the U4's slightly longer travel distance to offer a more satisfying typing experience with a bit more depth. Overall, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, with the U4 being slightly longer than the Hyacinth V2.
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 Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50 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 Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch is known for its clacky and sharp top-out sound, providing a crisp and percussive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offers a muted, low-pitched sound profile that is whisper quiet, creating a softer and more subtle typing experience. Depending on personal preference, the Hyacinth V2 will offer a more pronounced and resonant sound, while the U4 will provide a quieter and more understated typing noise.
When it comes to feel, the Hyacinth V2 is celebrated for its creamy, frictionless, and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and effortless keystroke that feels like gliding across the keys. In comparison, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is known for its sharp tactile bump, providing a strong and crisp feedback intensity with each keypress. The U4's tactile sensation offers a more pronounced and defined tactile feedback compared to the smoother and more fluid feel of the Hyacinth V2.
Considering the subjective qualities of both switches, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch excels in providing a clacky and resonant sound with a creamy and polished typing feel, catering to enthusiasts who appreciate a more pronounced auditory and tactile experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offers a muted and low-pitched sound profile with a sharp and distinct tactile bump, appealing to users who prefer a quieter typing noise with a more intense tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch or Gazzew U4 tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you are someone who values a crisp and resonant auditory feedback in your keystrokes and enjoys a creamy, frictionless typing experience, the Hyacinth V2 may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump with a whisper-quiet and muted sound profile, the Gazzew U4 could be the perfect fit. Regardless of your choice, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what characteristics are most important to you in a keyboard switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on what feels best for your individual typing style and preferences.
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