HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
In the world of mechanical keyboard switches, two standout options are the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the HMX Xinhai, both linear switches offering unique features and benefits. The Hyacinth V2 is praised for its long stem pole, providing a crisp top-out sound with a deep 'clack' that resonates with enthusiasts seeking a rich auditory experience. On the other hand, the Xinhai showcases a PA12 top housing for softer acoustics and a POM stem for a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance, appealing to those looking for a balance of sophistication and performance. While the Hyacinth V2 stands out for its seamless blend of sound and performance, the Xinhai offers a unique blend of subtle sophistication and precise performance. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the HMX Xinhai feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for a more clear and resonant sound due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. This means that both switches will offer a similar sound experience and aesthetic appeal when it comes to the top housing material.
However, the bottom housings of the two switches differ, with the Hyacinth V2 featuring a nylon bottom housing and the Xinhai featuring a polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. On the other hand, polycarbonate is stiffer and can lead to a crisper sound profile. This difference in bottom housing material will affect the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches, with the Hyacinth V2 likely offering a duller and rounder sound compared to the Xinhai.
Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate top housings and different bottom housing materials in the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the HMX Xinhai will result in unique typing experiences for each switch. The qualities of the bottom housing material will impact the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing material will influence the sound when releasing a key. This means that users can choose between a sharper, crisper sound profile with the Xinhai or a deeper, fuller sound profile with the Hyacinth V2 based on their preferences for typing feel and sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is evident that the Xinhai is the lighter option between the two. The Hyacinth V2 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, providing a medium-light resistance for a balanced typing experience. In contrast, the Xinhai boasts an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it the lighter choice overall. For those who prefer a lighter touch and less strain on their fingers during extended typing sessions, the Xinhai would be the more suitable option. On the other hand, individuals who appreciate a more tactile and substantial typing feel may lean towards the Hyacinth V2 with its slightly heavier forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing experience and desired level of resistance.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, with the Xinhai being slightly shorter than the Hyacinth V2. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Xinhai, while those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes may lean towards the Hyacinth V2. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively similar travel distance and will provide a similar typing experience in terms of 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 HMX Xinhai has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai for $3.19.
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, both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the HMX Xinhai linear switches are described as 'clacky', producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed that is crisp, bright, and percussive. While the Hyacinth V2 offers a deep 'clack' for a resonant auditory experience, the Xinhai boasts a softer acoustics profile with a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance due to its unique PA12 top housing and POM stem. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would come down to personal preference for the specific sound profile desired in a mechanical keyboard.
In terms of feel, the Hyacinth V2 is known for its creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience. These qualities create a smooth and refined typing feel, with reduced friction and effortless key travel, making each keystroke feel like gliding effortlessly across the keys. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch is described as both bouncy and creamy, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation combined with a smooth and buttery typing experience. This combination of lively rebound and silky smoothness offers a unique and satisfying feel to typing on the Xinhai switch.
Overall, both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the HMX Xinhai linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Hyacinth V2 excels in providing a deep, resonant 'clack' sound and a creamy, frictionless typing experience, the Xinhai switch stands out for its softer acoustics profile and bouncy, creamy feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound and typing feel, with both switches offering a blend of performance and auditory feedback that would satisfy enthusiasts seeking a quality mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch or the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and enjoy a deep 'clack' sound with a creamy and polished typing feel, then the Hyacinth V2 may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a higher-pitched clacky sound, and a bouncy or creamy typing feel, then the Xinhai switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what key features matter most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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