HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2, a linear switch, and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile, a tactile switch, offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. The Hyacinth V2 is renowned for its crisp top-out sound and deep 'clack' that provides a resonant and satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switches are praised for their smoothness, snappy tactile bump, and neutral sound signature. While the Hyacinth V2 is ideal for enthusiasts seeking depth in auditory feedback, the WS Light Tactile switches offer a seamless blend of smoothness and tactility. 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
50g
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
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
15.4mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile share the use of 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 clear and resonant sound when typing. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the overall design. In terms of sound quality, the similarities in the top housing material of these switches may produce comparable results when it comes to keypress sound.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Hyacinth V2 features a nylon housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, leading to a similar outcome in terms of sound when typing on the switch. While the top housing may affect the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing plays a more significant role in influencing the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile contributes to their distinctive sound profiles. While both switches use polycarbonate for the top housing, providing a clear and resonant sound, their nylon bottom housings result in deeper and fuller sound experiences. The split between top and bottom housing materials allows for a balanced combination of crispness and depth in the overall typing experience, showcasing the importance of housing materials in mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, both switches have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equal in this aspect. However, the Hyacinth V2 has a bottom out force of 52 grams, which is slightly heavier compared to the WS Light Tactile's 50 grams. This difference means that the Hyacinth V2 provides a slightly heavier typing experience when bottoming out keys. For those who prefer a lighter typing feel, the WS Light Tactile would be the preferred choice. Overall, weight considerations come into play when selecting a switch, with lighter switches being ideal for long typing sessions or gaming, while heavier switches provide a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer distinct characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences for keyboard users.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it shorter than the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Hyacinth V2 offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers who prioritize speed. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switch provides a slightly deeper keypress with its longer travel distance, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. Overall, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preference for travel distance and the desired typing experience.
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 Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile comes in at $4.20 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 sound, providing a sharp and percussive auditory experience with each keystroke. This creates a satisfying and resonant sound profile that is sure to please enthusiasts looking for a distinct acoustic feedback. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch offers a more neutral sound signature, suitable for a wide range of users and environments. The switch maintains a smooth operation with a subtle tactile bump, resulting in a moderate sound profile that is versatile for various typing preferences and settings.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Hyacinth V2 is praised for its creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience. These qualities contribute to a smooth and effortless keystroke, allowing users to glide their fingers across the keys with ease. The WS Light Tactile, on the other hand, offers a stepped and easy-to-press feel. The stepped tactile feedback provides a mild two-stage keystroke sensation, while the light actuation force makes typing comfortable and efficient, reducing finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions.
Overall, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch excels in providing a clacky sound and a luxurious typing experience with its unique blend of characteristics. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile and a comfortable typing feel that is suitable for a wide range of users. Choosing between these two switches ultimately depends on personal preferences in sound and feel, as both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch or the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, it's important to think about your preferences for sound and feel. If you are seeking a deep and resonant auditory experience with a crisp 'clack' sound, the Hyacinth V2 may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more neutral sound profile and a smooth, effortless typing feel with a gentle tactile bump, the WS Light Tactile could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you personally enjoy and find most comfortable.
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