HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U vs. Neo Lavender HE
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Neo Lavender HE switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often hinges on personal preference and typing style, making the comparison between the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch particularly intriguing. The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U is celebrated for its fuller travel distance of 3.9mm, appealing to those who appreciate the traditional typing experience enhanced by a bouncy 22mm spring, allowing for softer, bassier sounds that can elevate the tactile feedback during use. In contrast, the Neo Lavender HE offers a distinct advantage with its clean, low sound profile, thanks to its magnetic mechanism, delivering quiet, smooth keystrokes ideal for both gaming and office environments. While the Hyacinth V2U effectively marries classic and modern elements with its neutral and polished feel, the Lavender HE distinguishes itself as a forward-thinking choice for users seeking an upgrade when paired with compatible Wooting keyboards. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
16mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Neo Lavender HE, a notable distinction lies in their top housing materials. The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its rigidity and translucency, which contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. This quality not only enhances the clarity of sound during typing but also complements RGB lighting by allowing for more vibrant illumination. In contrast, the Neo Lavender HE incorporates a nylon top housing, a classic choice in mechanical keyboards. Nylon, being a softer material, absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience. Thus, while both switches aim for a pleasing sound profile, their approaches diverge due to the inherent properties of their top housing materials.
Both switches feature nylon for their bottom housing, aligning them in terms of sound absorption and overall acoustic profile. The nylon bottom housing found in the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Lavender HE brings about a similar characteristic of reduced sound sharpness, yielding a duller and rounder sound quality. This shared material choice contributes significantly to the overall feel when typing, as the bottom housing has a more pronounced impact on bottom-out sounds and tactile feedback. Therefore, despite the differences in their top housings, both switches can deliver a cohesive auditory experience through their nylon bottom housings.
The combination of materials in both switches highlights the balance between the sharper sound profile of polycarbonate and the deeper resonance of nylon. Users can expect a unique typing experience depending on the switch they choose. The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U aims to deliver an articulate, responsive feel with its polycarbonate top, while the Lavender HE provides a more muted yet satisfying auditory feedback with its nylon top. Together, these characteristics bring out the individual qualities of each keyboard switch, allowing users to select based on their personal sound profile preferences while still achieving a satisfying typing experience through their common nylon bottom housing.
Weight
The HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch present an interesting comparison in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Hyacinth V2U requires an actuation force of 45 grams and has a bottom out force of 52 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the Lavender HE features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it easier to press down. This means that for users who prefer a lighter typing experience, especially for extended use during work or gaming, the Lavender HE would be a more suitable option. The Hyacinth V2U, while slightly heavier, may offer a more substantial feel during typing, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push. Thus, the Hyacinth V2U can be seen as a better choice for users who desire a firmer tactile experience, while the Lavender HE caters to those prioritizing lighter keystrokes.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch, the Hyacinth V2U features a travel distance of 3.9 mm, making it the longer option of the two. In contrast, the Lavender HE switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. While both switches are relatively close in distance, the Hyacinth V2U offers a deeper feel that some users might prefer for a more robust typing experience, while the shorter Lavender HE switch caters to those who favor quick, responsive actions, especially in gaming scenarios. This nuanced difference in travel distance could lead to diverse tactile experiences, with the Hyacinth V2U being better for users seeking a heftier key press and the Lavender HE appealing to those who prioritize speed and rapid feedback.
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 Neo Lavender HE comes in at $4.50 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
When it comes to sound, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U showcases a fuller, bassier signature owing to its nylon construction and traditional travel distance of 3.9mm. This gives it a certain richness that can be quite pleasant, particularly for those who enjoy a more rounded auditory experience. The switch is characterized as neutral and subdued, meaning it won’t be overly noisy, making it suitable for a variety of environments, from professional to casual settings. The specific sound profile of the Neo Lavender HE isn't as detailed in the available information, but it is noted for producing a clean, low sound, particularly highlighted when used with Wooting keyboards. Both switches provide distinct auditory experiences, but the Hyacinth V2U’s sound is more textured while the Lavender HE leans towards clarity.
In terms of feel, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U is crafted to deliver a polished and silky typing experience. The combination of a smooth finish and likely factory lubing minimises friction, allowing for a dynamic and fluid keystroke. This makes it very enjoyable for long typing sessions or gaming. The feel of the Neo Lavender HE isn't detailed, leaving an unknown in this aspect, but typically, hall effect switches are known for their unique actuation mechanism which might lend a distinctive feel when compared to traditional mechanical switches. Thus, while the V2U excels in smoothness and comfort, the Lavender HE’s user experience remains unspecified.
To summarize, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and Neo Lavender HE switches each offer unique qualities. The Hyacinth V2U boasts a fuller sound and polished, silky feel that appeals to traditionalists and newcomers alike. In contrast, the Lavender HE provides a clean auditory experience, although its tactile feedback remains an unknown element. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users may find that the Sillyworks switch offers more defined characteristics, while the Neo Lavender may be attractive for those valuing clarity in sound, especially within compatible keyboard systems.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch, your decision will mainly depend on your typing preferences and the specific context in which you will be using your keyboard. If you appreciate a more traditional typing experience with a fuller travel distance and a moderate sound signature, the Hyacinth V2U is your go-to choice. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 52 grams and enhanced bounciness provide a polished and silky typing feel that's pleasant for both casual users and those logging long hours at a desk. On the other hand, if you're seeking a lighter switch for quick, efficient typing or gaming—especially if you plan to use a Wooting keyboard—the Lavender HE could be ideal for you. With its low sound profile and smooth operation, it accommodates faster keystrokes while producing less noise, making it perfect for quieter environments. Ultimately, consider whether you prioritize classic attributes and tactile satisfaction or modern efficiency and minimal sound, as this will guide you toward the switch that best suits your needs.
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