HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U vs. KTT Kang White
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the KTT Kang White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the KTT Kang White mechanical keyboard switches, it is important to consider their unique characteristics and qualities. The Hyacinth V2U is a linear switch that offers a fuller travel distance of 3.9mm, appealing to those who appreciate a traditional typing experience with a bouncy feel provided by its 22mm spring. Crafted from nylon, these switches produce a softer, bassier sound, combining elements of both old and new typing sensations. On the other hand, the KTT Kang White is also a linear switch known for its dazzling typing sound and unparalleled smoothness due to its self-lubricating material. While the Hyacinth V2U is categorized as neutral, polished, silky, subdued, the Kang White is categorized as low-pitched, neutral. Both switches have their own unique appeal and qualities that cater to different preferences. However, let's delve 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
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the KTT Kang White both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing. This material is known for its stiffness, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switch. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for those who plan to use RGB lighting in their keyboard setup. Both switches offer a visually appealing and acoustically satisfying experience thanks to their polycarbonate top housing.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Hyacinth V2U and the Kang White utilize nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound from the switch. This material choice ensures a more tactile and muted typing experience compared to switches with harder bottom housings. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of these switches contributes to a more subdued bottom-out sound and feel, enhancing the overall typing sensation.
Although both switches share similarities in their choice of housing materials, the Hyacinth V2U and the Kang White offer slightly different typing experiences due to the distribution of these materials between the top and bottom housings. The qualities of the polycarbonate top housing are more pronounced when releasing a key, while the nylon bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when typing. Users can expect a combination of sharp and crisp sound from the top housing, and a deeper and fuller sound from the bottom housing, resulting in a well-rounded typing experience with each key press.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch are quite similar, with both having an actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Hyacinth V2U has a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it lighter than the Kang White, which has a bottom out force of 58 grams. This means that the Kang White offers a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the Hyacinth V2U. Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing between the two switches, as a lighter switch like the Hyacinth V2U may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming, while a heavier switch like the Kang White may be favored for those seeking a more substantial typing feel. Despite these differences in force, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience overall.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the KTT Kang White linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Kang White has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Hyacinth V2U. A difference of 0.1 mm may not seem significant, but it can impact the feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Hyacinth V2U for faster response times, while others may appreciate the added depth of the Kang White switch. Both switches offer a different tactile experience, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference in choosing which travel distance is more suited to individual typing or gaming styles.
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 KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99 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
In terms of sound, the Hyacinth V2U linear switch offers a neutral and subdued sound profile, providing a moderate and dampened typing experience suitable for various purposes. On the other hand, the KTT Kang White linear switch produces a low-pitched and neutral sound, featuring a bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that can enhance the typing experience depending on individual preferences and the overall setup of the keyboard.
When it comes to feel, the Hyacinth V2U switch is known for its polished and silky typing experience, offering a smooth and refined finish that reduces friction and provides a sleek key travel. This switch ensures minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys, resulting in an exceptionally smooth typing feel. Unfortunately, information regarding the feel of the KTT Kang White switch is not available.
In conclusion, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch each offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences in typing experiences. While the Hyacinth V2U excels in providing a neutral and subdued sound with a polished and silky feel, the Kang White stands out with its low-pitched sound profile. Ultimately, selecting between these two switches would depend on the user's preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the KTT Kang White linear switches, consider the following factors. If you prioritize a fuller travel distance and a softer, bassier sound signature, along with a medium-light bottom out force, then the Hyacinth V2U may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a dazzling typing sound, unparalleled smoothness due to self-lubricating materials, and a medium bottom out force, then the KTT Kang White could be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what specific features you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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