HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the PH Studio Yoel mechanical keyboard switches, both linear in design, we find fascinating contrasts and similarities. The Hyacinth V2 stands out for its long stem pole, which produces a crisp top-out sound, providing enthusiasts with a deeply resonant and satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Yoel, manufactured by BSUN, offers a chewy typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile upon bottoming out. While both switches are categorized as 'clacky', 'creamy', 'polished', and 'silky', they differ in their sound characteristics, with the Hyacinth V2 leaning towards a deep 'clack' and the Yoel boasting a bright and resonant tone. 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
53g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 22mm Korean spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the PH Studio Yoel both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting due to its translucency. However, while both switches utilize polycarbonate top housings, they differ in their choice of bottom housing material. The Hyacinth V2 uses a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Yoel opts for a POM bottom housing, resulting in a unique and more muted sound.
Despite their similarities in top housing material, the differences between the Hyacinth V2 and the Yoel become apparent when looking at their bottom housing materials. The choice of nylon for the Hyacinth V2 creates a distinct sound experience with a deeper and rounder profile, whereas the POM bottom housing of the Yoel offers a more muted and pleasing sound. This highlights how the combination of different housing materials can significantly impact the overall sound quality and feel of a switch, providing users with a variety of options to suit their preferences.
Ultimately, the choice between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the PH Studio Yoel comes down to personal preference in sound profile. While both switches share the benefits of using polycarbonate in their top housings for a sharper and clearer sound, the differing bottom housing materials result in unique sound experiences. Whether you prefer the deeper and fuller sound of nylon or the more muted and pleasing sound of POM, each switch offers a distinct typing experience that caters to different preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Hyacinth V2 has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Yoel's 53 grams, making the Hyacinth V2 more responsive to keystrokes. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Hyacinth V2 requires 52 grams while the Yoel needs 60 grams, indicating that the Yoel provides a more substantial typing experience. Both switches fall into the medium category in terms of overall force, with the Hyacinth V2 leaning towards the lighter side and the Yoel being slightly heavier. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and the desired level of force required for typing tasks.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances preferred by many users for quicker response times, especially in gaming scenarios. However, the slight difference in travel distance may be noticeable to some users, with the Hyacinth V2 offering a slightly deeper key press compared to the Yoel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal 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 PH Studio Yoel has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yoel for $4.10.
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, both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the PH Studio Yoel are described as 'clacky,' offering a sharp and snappy sound profile when pressed. However, the Hyacinth V2 is noted for its deep 'clack' that provides a resonant and satisfying acoustic experience, while the Yoel delivers a brighter and more pronounced sound at the bottom-out point. Depending on personal preference, users can expect a distinct auditory experience from each switch, with the Hyacinth V2 offering a deeper tone and the Yoel providing a brighter and more resonant sound.
Moving on to the feel, both the Hyacinth V2 and the Yoel switches are characterized by a smooth and buttery typing experience. Descriptors such as 'creamy,' 'polished,' and 'silky' are used to highlight the effortless and frictionless key travel offered by these switches. Users can anticipate a luxurious sensation as their fingertips glide across the keys, with minimal resistance and maximum comfort. The switches' premium feel enhances the overall typing experience, making each keystroke a delight to execute.
In conclusion, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the PH Studio Yoel linear switches both offer exceptional sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. While the Hyacinth V2 stands out for its deep and resonant 'clack' sound, the Yoel provides a brighter and more pronounced auditory feedback at the bottom-out point. In terms of feel, both switches offer a creamy and polished typing experience that prioritizes smoothness and ease of use. Ultimately, choosing between the Hyacinth V2 and the Yoel will depend on individual preferences for sound profile and typing feel, but rest assured that both switches deliver a premium mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
Therefore, when considering whether to choose the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 or the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, you should take into account your preference for sound and feel. If you prioritize a deeper, resonant 'clack' sound with a creamy and snappy feel, the Hyacinth V2 may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bright, clacky sound with a silky smooth typing experience, the Yoel switch could be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what specific auditory and tactile sensations you value most in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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