HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U vs. Durock Ice King Linear
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Durock Ice King Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Durock Ice King Linear are two noteworthy options worth considering. The Hyacinth V2U stands out for its fuller travel distance of 3.9mm, providing a traditional typing feel compared to the shorter travel of many switches on the market. With a 22mm spring, these switches also offer a bouncier sensation and produce a softer, bassier sound thanks to their nylon construction. In contrast, the Ice King Linear boasts a silky smooth typing experience with its full nylon build and generous factory lube application. Both switches fall under the ['Subdued', 'Silky', 'Polished'] category, yet they showcase unique qualities that may cater to different preferences. 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
52g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Nylon
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
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Durock Ice King Linear, one key difference lies in the top housing material. The Hyacinth V2U features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Ice King Linear utilizes a nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This contrast in properties leads to a difference in the overall sound experience when typing on the two switches, with the Hyacinth V2U offering a more resonant and clear sound compared to the Ice King Linear's duller and rounder sound.
When it comes to the bottom housing material, both the Hyacinth V2U and the Ice King Linear feature nylon bottom housings. This choice contributes to a similar typing experience for both switches, as nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Therefore, despite their differences in top housing materials, both the Hyacinth V2U and the Ice King Linear offer a consistent sound profile when it comes to their bottom housing material.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches plays a crucial role in defining the sound profile and typing experience for users. While the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U's polycarbonate top housing delivers a sharper and more resonant sound, the Durock Ice King Linear's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound. However, with both switches featuring nylon bottom housings, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference in sound aesthetics and feel when typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch, we see some differences. The Hyacinth V2U has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Ice King Linear's 52 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch. However, the bottom out force of the Hyacinth V2U is slightly heavier at 52 grams, whereas the Ice King Linear requires 62 grams to bottom out, offering a more substantial typing experience. Both switches provide a medium feel overall, with the Ice King Linear leaning towards the heavier side. Depending on personal preferences, users can choose between a lighter or heavier actuation force for their typing or gaming needs.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, slightly longer than the Durock Ice King Linear switch with a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them popular choices for those seeking quicker response times, such as gamers. However, the slight difference in travel distance may be noticeable to some users, with the Hyacinth V2U providing a bit more depth to the keystroke compared to the Ice King Linear. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U 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 V2U for $2.91.
The Durock Ice King Linear has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice King Linear for $4.20.
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 V2U switch offers a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it versatile for different typing preferences. Additionally, it produces a subdued sound that is not completely silent but is more subtle compared to other switches. On the other hand, the Ice King Linear switch also provides a subdued sound signature, contributing to a quieter typing experience overall. Both switches offer a more muted sound, which may be suitable for office environments or shared spaces where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum.
In terms of feel, the Hyacinth V2U switch is known for its polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. It also offers a bouncy feel due to the 22mm spring, adding a hint of liveliness to each keystroke. The Ice King Linear switch, on the other hand, is described as silky, frictionless, and creamy, providing an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience. With a full nylon construction and generous factory lube, the Ice King Linear switch ensures minimal resistance and a fluid key travel, enhancing the overall typing feel.
Overall, both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Durock Ice King Linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Hyacinth V2U switch combines traditional typing experiences with a softer, bassier sound, the Ice King Linear switch prioritizes a silky smooth typing experience with its nylon construction and factory lube. Depending on whether you prefer a fuller travel distance and bouncy feel or a smoother, frictionless typing experience, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force and typing experience. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a fuller travel distance for a traditional typing feel, the Hyacinth V2U may be the way to go. The V2Us offer a softer, bassier sound and a bouncy feel with a neutral or subdued sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a silky smooth typing experience, the Ice King Linear may be more up your alley. The Ice King Linears provide a smooth and refined typing experience due to their nylon construction and factory lube, offering a subdued sound profile alongside options for a silky, frictionless, or creamy typing feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the specific feel and sound profile you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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