HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U vs. PH Studio Jacaranda
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the PH Studio Jacaranda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the PH Studio Jacaranda are both linear switches that offer unique and enticing features for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Hyacinth V2U stands out with its fuller travel distance of 3.9mm, catering to those who prefer a more traditional typing experience. Coupled with a 22mm spring, these switches provide an added level of bounciness, all while emitting a softer, bassier sound signature due to their nylon construction. On the other hand, the Jacaranda from PH Studio boasts a gentle bottom-out of 43.5g, making it easy on the fingers for extended typing sessions. Its clacky sound signature and extended 22mm spring offer a crisp and audible feedback, bringing a unique bouncy sensation to each keystroke. While the Hyacinth V2U leans towards a more neutral and subdued feel, the Jacaranda is categorized as clacky and high-pitched. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths and characteristics that 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
39g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
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
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and PH Studio Jacaranda keyboards feature polycarbonate top housings, which share similar characteristics. The use of polycarbonate in these housings creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the keyboards. While both keyboards have similar top housings, the differences lie in their bottom housings.
Although the Hyacinth V2U and Jacaranda keyboards both have nylon bottom housings, this material brings a different quality to each keyboard. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile as it absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This means that typing on the Hyacinth V2U with its nylon bottom housing will provide a different tactile and auditory experience compared to typing on the Jacaranda with the same material. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a unique feel and sound profile in each keyboard.
While both keyboards offer a similar polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and clear sound profile, the use of nylon in the bottom housing of each keyboard results in a different typing experience. The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U provides a deeper and fuller sound profile with its nylon bottom housing, creating a unique tactile feel for users. On the other hand, the PH Studio Jacaranda keyboard offers a similar experience with its nylon bottom housing, allowing for a different typing sensation and sound profile. Ultimately, the combination of materials in each keyboard creates a distinct typing experience for users to enjoy.
Weight
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch with an actuation force of 39 grams. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Hyacinth V2U requires 52 grams while the Jacaranda needs 45 grams. The Hyacinth V2U can provide a bit more resistance during typing due to its higher bottom out force, giving a slightly more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Jacaranda offers a lighter touch, making it easier to type for longer periods without fatigue. Both switches fall within the medium-light to light range, making them suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Hyacinth V2U has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Jacaranda, providing a slightly deeper key press experience. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Jacaranda with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Hyacinth V2U. Both switches offer a different feel when typing or gaming, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference on whether you prefer a shorter or longer travel distance.
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 PH Studio Jacaranda has an MSRP of $3.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jacaranda for $3.30.
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
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch is known for its neutral and subdued sound profile, offering a moderate and subtle typing experience. In contrast, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a clacky, high-pitched, and resonant sound, providing a sharp and crisp auditory feedback. When it comes to feel, both switches are described as silky, promising an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimized resistance. While the Hyacinth V2U focuses on a fuller travel distance and a softer, bassier sound, the Jacaranda stands out with its easy bottom-out force and bouncy sensation. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to individual preferences in sound profile, typing feel, and overall typing experience. Whether you opt for the Hyacinth V2U or the Jacaranda, you can expect a high-quality mechanical keyboard switch that delivers satisfying results.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, consider the following factors. Opt for the Hyacinth V2U if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a fuller travel distance reminiscent of traditional typing experiences. These switches offer a softer, bassier sound signature and a bouncy feel with a 22mm spring. On the other hand, choose the Jacaranda if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a switch that is easy on the fingers, providing a crisp and clacky feedback. The Jacaranda's extended 22mm spring enhances the typing experience with a uniquely bouncy sensation. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a traditional typing feel with a softer sound profile (Hyacinth V2U) or a light, clacky typing experience (Jacaranda).
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