HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U vs. Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro stand out as popular choices in their respective categories. The Hyacinth V2U is a linear switch with a fuller travel distance of 3.9mm, providing a traditional typing experience with a bouncy feel thanks to its 22mm spring. Made from nylon, these switches produce a softer, bassier sound signature. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro is a tactile switch known for its higher-pitched sound profile and satisfying tactile bump, offering a delightful typing experience. While the Hyacinth V2U is described as 'Neutral', 'Polished', 'Silky', and 'Subdued', the Lavender Purple V3 is categorized as 'Accented', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', and 'Polished'. Each switch has its own unique qualities that appeal to different preferences, making them both excellent choices depending on your typing style and 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
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
20mm
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches use polycarbonate for the top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it an ideal choice for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. This commonality in housing material suggests that users can expect similar sound and aesthetic qualities from both switches, particularly when it comes to key press feedback and overall sound profile.
However, the differences in the bottom housing materials between the two switches create distinct characteristics in their typing experience. The Hyacinth V2U utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound upon key press. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro also features a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience with a focus on enhancing the sound quality and tactile feedback during key presses.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials in the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro respectively, highlights the importance of housing materials in determining the sound and feel of mechanical switches. While both switches benefit from the rigidity and clarity of polycarbonate in their top housing, the differences in their bottom housing materials showcase how softer plastics like nylon can impact the overall sound profile and typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in sound and tactile feedback preferences.
Weight
In comparing the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, it is clear that both have a similar actuation force of 45 grams, providing a consistent typing experience. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Hyacinth V2U requires 52 grams, while the V3 Lavender Purple Pro needs 55 grams. The Hyacinth V2U is lighter in terms of bottom out force, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a slightly heavier bottom out force, which may appeal to users seeking a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the realm of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for gamers who prioritize quick response times. The Hyacinth V2U offers a slightly longer travel distance, allowing for a slightly deeper keystroke feel compared to the Lavender Purple Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference - whether you prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the Hyacinth V2U or the slightly shorter travel distance of the Lavender Purple Pro.
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 Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Lavender Purple Pro for $2.20.
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 Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U offers a more subdued and bassier sound profile compared to the higher-pitched sound of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro. The Hyacinth V2U provides a more neutral and moderate sound, making it suitable for various environments and user preferences. On the other hand, the Lavender Purple Pro delivers a more distinct and satisfying sound experience with its tactile bump. Ultimately, the sound preference between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the overall setup of your keyboard.
In terms of feel, the Hyacinth V2U is known for its polished and silky typing experience, providing smooth key travel with reduced friction. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a bouncy and snappy feel, giving users a spring-like feedback sensation with a responsive typing experience. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences, with the Hyacinth V2U focusing on a more refined and smooth typing feel, while the Lavender Purple Pro provides a lively and bouncy sensation. Your personal typing preference will play a significant role in deciding which switch suits your needs best.
Overall, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro offer different subjective qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The Hyacinth V2U provides a more subdued sound with a polished and silky typing experience, while the Lavender Purple Pro delivers a higher-pitched sound with a bouncy and snappy feel. Depending on whether you prefer a neutral, bassier sound with a smooth typing feel or a distinct, higher-pitched sound with a bouncy typing experience, you can achieve different results with these two switches. Ultimately, it's essential to consider your personal preferences and typing style when deciding between these two mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
Overall, when choosing between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, it really comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you enjoy a fuller travel distance and a softer sound signature, the Hyacinth V2U may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfying tactile bump, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro could be more your speed. Additionally, consider whether you prefer a more neutral or subdued sound profile, as well as whether you value a polished and silky feel or a bouncy and snappy typing experience. Ultimately, the decision is yours to make based on what features and characteristics align best with your typing preferences.
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