HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Aflion Windy Shadow both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Hyacinth V2 is praised for its deep 'clack' sound and long stem pole design, providing a satisfying auditory experience for enthusiasts who value a crisp top-out sound. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow by Aflion showcases a neutral sound profile and a distinctive bounce from its extended spring, offering a comfortable typing experience at a 55g bottom-out. While the Hyacinth V2 is described as 'clacky', 'creamy', and 'snappy', the Windy Shadow is characterized as 'low-pitched' and 'mild'. 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
55g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Aflion Windy Shadow both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that results in a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housings of both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. Despite these similarities, the top and bottom housings of each switch will impact the overall sound and feel differently.
While both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Aflion Windy Shadow differ in their bottom housing material, with the Hyacinth V2 using nylon and Aflion Windy Shadow also using nylon. This distinction affects the typing experience, as the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. The Hyacinth V2's use of nylon for the bottom housing offers a deeper sound profile, while the Windy Shadow's nylon bottom housing also contributes to a fuller sound due to its sound absorption properties.
In conclusion, both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Aflion Windy Shadow showcase the benefits of utilizing different housing materials for unique typing experiences. The polycarbonate top housings provide a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for those who prefer a more resonant typing experience, especially when paired with RGB lighting. Conversely, the nylon bottom housings offer a deeper and fuller sound, creating a more subdued typing experience. By understanding how each housing material impacts the sound and feel of the switch, individuals can choose a keyboard that best suits their preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, we find that the Hyacinth V2 has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Windy Shadow's unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a similar medium-light bottom out force, with the Hyacinth V2 at 52 grams and the Windy Shadow at 55 grams. This means that while the Hyacinth V2 may provide a slightly lighter typing experience in terms of actuation force, both switches offer a comparable bottom out force for a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two may come down to personal preference for a lighter initial push or a slightly heavier feel.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switches both have a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, the distance traveled from the top to the bottom is the same. Users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and actuation regardless of which switch they choose. This makes them ideal for those looking for consistent performance in their typing or gaming experience. Overall, both the Hyacinth V2 and the Windy Shadow offer a medium-length travel distance, providing a good balance between keypress feedback and typing comfort.
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 Aflion Windy Shadow has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Windy Shadow for $3.91.
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
When it comes to sound, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch is known for its clacky and percussive nature, providing users with a sharp and satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, giving off a bass-heavy and mellow tone suitable for various typing environments. Depending on personal preference and setup, users can expect different sound experiences from each switch.
Moving on to feel, the Hyacinth V2 is praised for its creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience, offering smooth and effortless key presses with a refined finish. In comparison, the Aflion Windy Shadow switch provides a mild typing experience, offering a more gentle feel without any pronounced characteristics. Both switches cater to different preferences in terms of typing feel, with the Hyacinth V2 focusing on smoothness and responsiveness, while the Windy Shadow offers a safe and approachable typing experience.
In conclusion, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and Aflion Windy Shadow linear switches both have distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Hyacinth V2 excels in providing a clacky sound and a smooth, polished feel, the Windy Shadow offers a neutral sound profile and a mild typing experience. Depending on whether you prefer a more pronounced sound and smooth key presses or a mellow sound and gentle typing feel, you can choose between these switches to enhance your overall keyboarding experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch or the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for sound and feel. If you are looking for a switch that offers a distinct 'clacky' sound with a smooth and frictionless typing experience, the Hyacinth V2 may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a low-pitched and neutral sound profile with a mild and gentle typing experience, the Windy Shadow could be more to your liking. Both switches offer a medium-light bottom-out force, so it's important to consider the auditory and tactile feedback that aligns with your keyboard preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel in your mechanical keyboard.
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