HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and Dareu Violet Gold Pro are worth considering. The Hyacinth V2, a linear switch, is renowned for its crisp top-out sound and deep 'clack', providing a satisfying auditory experience for enthusiasts looking for a blend of sound and performance. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro, a tactile switch, offers a medium tactility with a light touch and neutral sound signature, making it a great option for those seeking a balanced 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
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 22mm Korean spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro, we can see that they both feature polycarbonate top housings. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for switches that aim for clarity and resonance in sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches that utilize RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing element to the switch design. In this aspect, both the Hyacinth V2 and the Violet Gold Pro will deliver similar results in terms of sound quality and aesthetic appeal.
However, where these two switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Hyacinth V2 utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro also features a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar experience with a focus on creating a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material may slightly impact the overall typing experience and sound of the switches, providing users with options based on their preferences for sound profile.
Overall, the combination of different housing materials in the Hyacinth V2 and the Violet Gold Pro allows for a balanced typing experience. The qualities of the top and bottom housings play a role in different aspects of the switch's sound and feel, with the bottom housing having more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in sound profile, providing users with options to customize their typing experience based on their individual preferences.
Weight
Comparing the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, the actuation forces are equal at 45 grams for both. However, the bottom out force of the Hyacinth V2 is 52 grams, while the bottom out force of the Violet Gold Pro is unknown. The Hyacinth V2 is lighter in terms of bottom out force, making it more suited for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro's bottom out force is unavailable, so it is difficult to determine if it is lighter or heavier in comparison. Overall, those who prefer a medium-light typing experience may lean towards the Hyacinth V2, while the Violet Gold Pro's suitability will depend on the bottom out force once that information is available.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those seeking faster response times, such as gamers. However, the slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may result in a slightly different typing or gaming experience. For those who prefer a quicker and more responsive feel, the Hyacinth V2 may be the preferred choice due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a bit more depth and cushioning when pressing down on a key may lean towards the Violet Gold Pro with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Dareu Violet Gold Pro has an MSRP of $7.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet Gold Pro for $4.76.
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 stands out for its clacky and sharp sound profile, offering a crisp and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch provides a neutral sound signature, making it a versatile option suitable for various typing preferences. Depending on the individual's preference for sound, the Hyacinth V2 would provide a more pronounced auditory feedback, while the Violet Gold Pro offers a more subtle and balanced sound.
When it comes to feel, the Hyacinth V2 linear switch offers a range of descriptors such as creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy, all contributing to a smooth and effortless typing experience with enhanced responsiveness. In contrast, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch is characterized as stepped, providing a two-stage tactile feedback that feels more mild compared to the intense bump of a hypertactile switch. Depending on the individual's preference for typing feel, the Hyacinth V2 would offer a luxurious and refined typing experience, while the Violet Gold Pro provides a more subtle and varied tactile sensation.
Overall, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Hyacinth V2 excels in providing a clacky and sharp sound with a creamy and polished typing feel, while the Violet Gold Pro offers a neutral sound with a stepped tactile sensation. Depending on the individual's preferences for sound and feel, both switches provide unique experiences that cater to different typing styles. Selecting between the two switches would ultimately depend on the user's preference for sound, feel, and typing performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, consider your priorities. If you value a crisp and resonant auditory experience during typing, along with a smooth and frictionless keystroke, the Hyacinth V2 may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a balanced tactile feedback with a light touch and a neutral sound profile, the Violet Gold Pro offers a "Goldilocks" option for a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize sound and smoothness or tactility and balance in your mechanical keyboard switch selection.
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