HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two standout options are the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches. The Hyacinth V2 is a linear switch beloved for its crisp top-out sound and deep 'clack' that provides a resonant and satisfying auditory experience, making it a favorite among enthusiasts looking for a blend of sound and performance. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switches by Wuque are designed to minimize noise while offering exceptional responsiveness and a gratifying bottom-out. Unlike traditional silent switches, the WS Silent Linear switches do not use silicone dampeners, providing a unique typing experience that combines tranquility with precision. While the Hyacinth V2 leans towards a more clacky and polished feel, the WS Silent Linear switches offer a more subdued and muted 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
Nylon
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
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear, it is clear that both switches use nylon for the bottom housing. This means that typing on either switch will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. However, the difference lies in the top housing material, with the Hyacinth V2 using polycarbonate and the WS Silent Linear using nylon. The Hyacinth V2's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, while the WS Silent Linear's nylon top housing produces a duller and rounder sound due to its softer nature.
Although both switches share the same nylon material for the bottom housing, the Hyacinth V2 and WS Silent Linear differ significantly in their top housing material. The Hyacinth V2's polycarbonate top housing offers a more clear and resonant sound profile, especially when combined with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear's nylon top housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This contrast highlights how the choice of top housing material can greatly impact the overall sound experience of a mechanical keyboard switch.
In terms of overall sound and feel, the top and bottom housing materials play a crucial role in determining the sound profile and typing experience of a switch. The qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when a key is released. While both the Hyacinth V2 and WS Silent Linear offer unique sound profiles due to their different housing materials, the use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures a deeper and fuller sound experience for both switches. Ultimately, the choice between polycarbonate and nylon for the top housing will result in distinct sound characteristics for each switch.
Weight
When comparing the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch to the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, it is evident that there are differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Hyacinth V2 has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the WS Silent Linear's unknown actuation force. In terms of bottom out force, the Hyacinth V2 requires 52 grams of force, while the WS Silent Linear needs 63.5 grams, making it the heavier of the two. The lighter actuation force of the Hyacinth V2 may be preferred by those who type for extended periods, while the heavier bottom out force of the WS Silent Linear could appeal to users seeking a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Hyacinth V2 leaning towards a lighter feel and the WS Silent Linear providing a heavier touch.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing them, both switches provide a similar tactile experience with a consistent travel distance from the top to the bottom. This means that users can expect similar results from both switches in terms of how they feel when pressed. In terms of travel distance, neither switch is shorter or longer than the other, as they both offer the same 3.5 mm travel distance. This similarity in travel distance may make it challenging for users to notice a significant difference between the two switches based on this specific feature.
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 Silent Linear 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
When it comes to sound, the Hyacinth V2 linear switch from Sillyworks is known for its distinctive deep 'clack' sound, providing a resonant and satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switch by Wuque Studio is designed to minimize noise through clever stem railings with discreet cutouts, resulting in a more tranquil typing experience that is muted and subdued. The Hyacinth V2 offers a clacky sound profile, while the WS Silent Linear presents a more neutral and muted sound, creating a more peaceful typing atmosphere.
In terms of feel, the Hyacinth V2 is described as offering a creamy, frictionless, and polished typing experience, providing smooth and buttery key presses that glide effortlessly. It also promises a snappy and responsive feel due to its design. Conversely, the WS Silent Linear switch is described as providing a mild typing experience, which is gentle and approachable to most users. While the Hyacinth V2 offers a range of smooth and responsive sensations, the WS Silent Linear focuses on a more subdued and gentle typing experience.
Both the Hyacinth V2 and WS Silent Linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Hyacinth V2 excels in providing a clacky sound and creamy, frictionless feel, catering to enthusiasts looking for a more dynamic typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switch prioritizes tranquility and mildness in both sound and feel, aiming to create a quieter and more gentle typing environment. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and feel, with the Hyacinth V2 offering a more expressive typing experience, while the WS Silent Linear provides a more subdued and peaceful option.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you value a crisp and clacky sound with a creamy and frictionless typing feel, the Hyacinth V2 is the ideal choice for an immersive auditory and tactile experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize a neutral and muted sound with a mild typing feel that strikes the perfect balance between tranquility and precision, the WS Silent Linear switch is the perfect fit for a quiet yet responsive typing session. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced user, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose based on your desired typing experience.
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