HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U vs. Durock Lupine
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Durock Lupine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Durock Lupine mechanical keyboard switches, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Hyacinth V2U stands out with its fuller travel distance of 3.9mm, providing a nod to traditional typing experiences and a bouncier feel with its 22mm spring. Crafted from nylon, it offers a softer, bassier sound signature, blending the old and the new. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine boasts two-stage long springs for a consistent weight distribution while typing and a powerful upward movement on the rebound. The classic clacky sound profile of the Lupine adds to its appeal. Both switches fall under the category of 'Neutral' and 'Polished', but the Hyacinth V2U is described as 'Silky' and 'Subdued', while the Lupine is labeled as 'Mild' and 'High-pitched'. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Two-stage long spring
Housing materials
Both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Durock Lupine utilize polycarbonate top housings, which create sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profiles due to the material's stiffness. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when typing on these switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate lends itself well to RGB lighting, making it a popular choice for users looking to customize the aesthetics of their keyboard. The similarities in the top housing material of these switches ensure that users can expect similar sound profiles and visual effects when using either the Hyacinth V2U or the Lupine.
On the other hand, the bottom housing materials of the Hyacinth V2U and the Lupine differ, with the former using nylon and the latter opting for polycarbonate. Nylon bottom housings are known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, as the softer plastic absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Lupine's polycarbonate bottom housing may provide a different typing experience, with potentially sharper and crisper sound characteristics due to the material's stiffness. This distinction in bottom housing material could lead to varying sound profiles and tactile feedback between the two switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in both the Hyacinth V2U and the Lupine plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and typing experience of these switches. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, providing similar sharp and clear sound profiles, the difference in bottom housing materials (nylon for the Hyacinth V2U and polycarbonate for the Lupine) may result in distinct sound characteristics when typing on these switches. Users looking for a deeper and fuller sound experience may prefer the Hyacinth V2U with its nylon bottom housing, while those seeking a potentially sharper sound profile may lean towards the Lupine with its polycarbonate bottom housing.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, the Hyacinth V2U has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Lupine, which has an unknown actuation force. The bottom out force for the Hyacinth V2U is also lighter at 52 grams, while the Lupine has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams. This means that the Hyacinth V2U provides a slightly lighter typing experience overall compared to the Lupine. Both switches offer a medium level of force overall, but the Hyacinth V2U leans towards the lighter end of the spectrum, making it suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions where a lighter touch is preferred. On the other hand, the Lupine offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for typing feel and the desired weight of the keys.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Durock Lupine linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the Hyacinth being slightly longer than the Lupine. Gamers looking for a faster response time may prefer the slightly shorter travel distance of the Lupine, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may opt for the Hyacinth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Durock Lupine has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lupine for $4.25.
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, both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Durock Lupine offer a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various typing environments and preferences. The Hyacinth V2U presents a subdued sound signature, providing a more subtle and dampened typing experience, while the Lupine offers a high-pitched sound, producing a sharp and crisp noise when pressed. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and the overall acoustics of your keyboard setup.
Moving on to feel, the Hyacinth V2U is known for its polished and silky smooth typing experience, offering reduced friction and enhanced key travel. On the other hand, the Lupine provides a mild and polished feel, catering to those who prefer a gentler typing experience with a refined finish. Both switches fall within the safe middle-ground zone of typing comfort, ensuring that users will find them approachable and enjoyable to use for extended periods.
In conclusion, both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Durock Lupine linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Hyacinth V2U boasts a fuller travel distance and a softer, bassier sound, the Lupine features two-stage long springs and a classic clacky noise profile. Depending on whether you prioritize a more traditional typing experience with enhanced bounciness or a consistent weight distribution with a powerful rebound, either switch can cater to your specific preferences. Ultimately, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that users will enjoy their mechanical keyboard setup with either option.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a fuller travel distance with a bouncier feel, opt for the Hyacinth V2U. This switch offers a softer, bassier sound profile and a combination of traditional and modern typing experiences. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a two-stage long spring design for consistent weight distribution and powerful rebound, then the Lupine may be the better choice for you. Additionally, if you prefer a more neutral sound profile, the Hyacinth V2U would be suitable, while the Lupine offers a high-pitched sound for those who enjoy a sharper and crisper typing experience. Finally, if you value a polished and refined typing feel, both switches offer this quality, but the Lupine also provides a mild typing experience for a gentle feel. Ultimately, your preference for travel distance, sound profile, and typing feel will determine which switch is the best fit for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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