HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Durock White Lotus offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Hyacinth V2 is a linear switch known for its crisp top-out sound and deep 'clack', providing enthusiasts with a satisfying auditory feedback that seamlessly blends with its performance. On the other hand, the White Lotus is a tactile switch designed for the discerning typist, offering a delicate tactility that strikes the perfect balance for work and extended typing sessions. While the Hyacinth V2 is categorized as 'clacky' and 'snappy', the White Lotus is described as 'mild' and 'subtle'. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches depends on personal preference and typing style; 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
46g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
56g
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
Modified PC & UPE Blend
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 long spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Durock White Lotus, one key difference lies in the top housing material used. The Hyacinth V2 features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the White Lotus utilizes a modified PC & UPE Blend top housing, which offers a unique and premium feel. While both housing materials are designed to enhance sound quality and aesthetics, the choice between polycarbonate and the blend material ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Hyacinth V2 and the White Lotus feature a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite the similar material used for the bottom housing, the design and implementation of the housing within each switch may still lead to subtle differences in sound and feel when typing.
Ultimately, the combination of housing materials in a switch plays a significant role in the overall typing experience. While the top housing primarily impacts the sound when pressing down on a key, the bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel. Both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Durock White Lotus aim to provide a premium typing experience through their choice of housing materials, whether it be polycarbonate for a sharper sound profile or nylon for a fuller sound profile. Regardless of the differences in materials, users can expect a high-quality typing experience from both switches.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, it is clear that both switches fall within the medium-light category. The Hyacinth V2 has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the White Lotus's 46 grams, while the bottom out force for the Hyacinth V2 is 52 grams and 56 grams for the White Lotus. Both switches provide a similar typing experience due to their relatively close actuation and bottom out forces. When considering weight, some users may appreciate the Hyacinth V2's lighter actuation and bottom out forces for longer typing sessions, while others may prefer the White Lotus's slightly heavier forces for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Durock White Lotus tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the White Lotus has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Hyacinth V2. The shorter travel distance of the Hyacinth V2 may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the White Lotus may appeal to those who prefer a deeper and more satisfying keystroke. Both switches offer different experiences, so choosing between them would depend on personal preference for travel distance.
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 Durock White Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the White Lotus for $4.57.
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
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch is known for its distinctive deep 'clack' sound, providing a resonant and satisfying auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch offers a low-pitched sound profile that is more bass-heavy and mellow, designed to be neutral and suitable for a variety of typing preferences. The sound of both switches can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycap combinations used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Hyacinth V2 is described as creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with minimal resistance and effortless key presses. In contrast, the White Lotus switches are easy-to-press, mild, and subtle, providing gentle resistance with light actuation force for comfortable typing and reduced finger fatigue during extended use. Both switches aim to offer a pleasant typing experience, with the Hyacinth V2 emphasizing smoothness and responsiveness, while the White Lotus focuses on ease of use and comfort.
Overall, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch excels in providing a clacky and tactile sound profile, combined with a creamy and snappy typing feel for a satisfying and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound, paired with an easy-to-press and subtle typing feel for a gentle and comfortable typing session. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences, ensuring a rewarding keyboard experience regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you desire a keyboard switch that offers a distinct and resonant clack sound with a creamy, frictionless, or silky typing feel, the Hyacinth V2 may be the perfect choice for you. However, if you prefer a switch with a low-pitched sound profile, delicate tactility, and easy-to-press feel that is suitable for work or extended typing sessions, the White Lotus switch would be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for sound, feel, and intended use of the keyboard.
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