HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U vs. Gateron Lunar Probe
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Gateron Lunar Probe switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Gateron Lunar Probe. The Hyacinth V2U is a linear switch known for its fuller travel distance of 3.9mm, catering to those who prefer a more traditional typing experience with a bouncier feel thanks to its 22mm spring. Crafted from nylon, these switches produce a softer, bassier sound signature, offering a blend of the old and the new. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe stands out for its dual rail mechanism, ensuring stable and consistent keypresses. These linear switches provide an incredibly smooth, pre-lubed sensation with a subtle sound profile. The Hyacinth V2U is categorized as neutral, polished, silky, and subdued, while the Lunar Probe's characteristics remain unspecified. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences and typing style. However, let's dive 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
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Gateron Lunar Probe, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. This similarity in top housing material suggests that users can expect a similar sound experience when typing on both switches.
On the other hand, the bottom housing material sets the Hyacinth V2U and the Lunar Probe apart. The Hyacinth V2U utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. In contrast, the Lunar Probe also features a nylon bottom housing, emphasizing the rich and substantial typing experience that nylon provides. Despite the different overall designs of the switches, the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures a similar tactile experience for users of both switches.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings in the Hyacinth V2U and the Lunar Probe showcases a balance between clear, crisp sound and deep, full sound profiles. While the top housing influences the sound when a key is released, the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when typing. This division of housing materials allows for a well-rounded typing experience on both switches, each offering a unique blend of characteristics that cater to different preferences in keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch both have a similar actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Hyacinth V2U has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 52 grams, while the Lunar Probe has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Hyacinth V2U provides a medium-light typing experience overall, while the Lunar Probe offers a lighter touch for those who prefer a gentler keypress. The actuation force of both switches being the same means that users can expect similar results in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those looking for quicker response times, particularly in gaming. The slight difference in travel distance may not be noticeable to all users, but for those who prefer a slightly deeper press, the Hyacinth V2U may provide a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, allowing for efficient and comfortable typing or gaming experiences.
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 Gateron Lunar Probe has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lunar Probe for $4.19.
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 Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switch offers a neutral and subdued sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of environments and users. The nylon construction of the switch contributes to a softer and bassier sound signature, providing a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch's sound characteristics are not provided in the information given, so it is unclear how it compares to the Hyacinth V2U in terms of sound.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Hyacinth V2U is praised for its polished and silky typing experience, offering reduced friction and smooth key travel. This smoothness enhances the overall typing feel and minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Unfortunately, the feel of the Gateron Lunar Probe switch is not described in the information provided, so it is unknown how it compares to the Hyacinth V2U in terms of tactile feedback and typing experience.
In conclusion, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch is known for its fuller travel distance, bouncy feel, neutral and subdued sound signature, and polished and silky typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch is praised for its stable and consistent keypresses, smooth linear sensation, and subtle sound signature. While the specific sound and feel of the Lunar Probe switch are not detailed, based on the provided information, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. Depending on personal preferences and typing needs, users can expect a pleasant and satisfying typing experience with either of these switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, travel distance, and sound signature. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a fuller travel distance for a traditional typing experience with a softer sound signature, the Hyacinth V2U may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation with stable and consistent keypresses, the Gateron Lunar Probe could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, your decision will depend on your personal typing style and preferences for sound and feel.
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