HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U vs. Dareu Mahjong
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Dareu Mahjong switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves navigating a landscape of options tailored to diverse preferences and typing experiences. The HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U is a standout linear switch known for its traditional 3.9mm travel distance, providing a more classic, tactile feel reminiscent of older typing experiences. Enhanced with a 22mm spring, it delivers a delightful bounce that many users appreciate, along with its softer, bassier sound signature, crafted from durable nylon. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong switches present a more contemporary flair with their striking green and white aesthetic, boasting a lively, poppy sound profile that can invigorate the typing experience. With an effortless and smooth operation, these switches cater to those who prioritize a vibrant auditory feedback while typing. Ultimately, both switches aim to deliver a unique linear experience, appealing to specific user preferences, yet they embody distinct characteristics. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Dareu Mahjong switches showcase distinct qualities that influence their acoustic performance and user experience. The Hyacinth V2U features a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharp, high-pitched sound profile that is often characterized as crisper and clearer. This is largely due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which allows sound waves to resonate more effectively. In contrast, the Mahjong employs a POK top housing, which, while still contributing to a smooth sound profile, leans more towards a clacky acoustic experience. POK's specific attributes—such as a low coefficient of friction and exceptional durability—allow for a more resilient switch, though its acoustic signature differs from that of polycarbonate, reflecting a unique blend of performance in its own right.
Both switches share a commonality in their use of nylon for the bottom housing, which plays a significant role in shaping their auditory experience. Nylon is acknowledged for its capacity to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller acoustic profile. This aspect is consistent in both the Hyacinth V2U and the Mahjong, as they employ nylon to ensure a smooth and rounded sound when a key is bottomed out. Thus, while the top housings introduce differing characteristics to the overall sound profile, the nylon bottom housing creates a harmonizing element that contributes to a cohesive auditory experience across both switches.
In essence, while the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Dareu Mahjong utilize different materials in their top housings—polycarbonate and POK respectively—their shared use of nylon in the bottom housing establishes a common auditory foundation. The distinctive top housing materials allow for varied sound profiles, whereby the Hyacinth achieves a sharper resonance while the Mahjong offers a smoother clack. However, the nylon's absorption qualities ensure that the deeper and fuller sound, characteristic of both switches, remains consistent regardless of the differences at the top. Thus, users can expect an overall engaging tactile and auditory experience, shaped by the unique interplay of materials used in both designs.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Dareu Mahjong linear switches, both exhibit the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equal in terms of the force needed to trigger a keystroke. This similarity offers users a consistent typing experience, particularly for those who prefer a medium-light touch for prolonged typing sessions or gaming. However, the bottom out forces differ, with the Hyacinth V2U having a defined bottom out force of 52 grams, while the Mahjong's bottom out force remains unknown. Given this, it’s likely that the Hyacinth V2U provides a firmer feel upon bottoming out, which some users may appreciate for a more robust typing experience. Overall, the Hyacinth V2U is the heavier option due to its bottom out force, while both switches maintain the same light actuation force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, it is evident that they differ significantly. The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, making it the longer option, while the Dareu Mahjong has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. For users who prioritize rapid responsiveness, the Mahjong's shorter travel distance may be more appealing, as it allows for quicker keystrokes, which is often favored in gaming scenarios. Conversely, those who prefer a more pronounced depth in their key presses may opt for the Hyacinth V2U, which offers a more substantial feel due to its longer travel distance. Therefore, depending on personal preference, either switch can provide distinct advantages suited to different typing 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 Dareu Mahjong has an MSRP of $8.89 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mahjong for $5.79.
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 HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U delivers a more subdued and bass-filled auditory experience, thanks to its nylon construction. It has a neutral sound profile that is moderate in its actuation force and output, making it versatile for both casual and professional environments. This switch leans towards a more muted sound without being intrusive, which makes it suitable for shared spaces. In contrast, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch exhibits a lively and poppy sound signature, offering a more spirited auditory feedback during typing. Although both switches are deemed neutral in force, the Mahjong’s energetic tone stands out, providing a more engaging experience that users might find more stimulating.
In terms of feel, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U is characterized by its polished and silky smoothness, enabling a sleek typing experience with minimal resistance. This switch excels at providing an exceptionally refined finish, which contributes to fluid key travel and an overall smoothness that many users find appealing. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch combines a bouncy feedback with a polished finish, resulting in a unique typing sensation that is both lively and gentle. The bounciness contributes to a spring-like feel, while the mildness ensures that the experience remains approachable. This creates a compelling contrast where the Hyacinth V2U is sophisticated and refined, while the Mahjong offers a more dynamic and elastic feel.
Overall, both the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch present intriguing options within the linear switch category, each with their unique charm. The Hyacinth V2U caters to those who prefer a more subdued auditory experience with a silky typing feel, perfect for quieter settings. In contrast, the Mahjong offers a lively sound and bouncy feedback, making it ideal for users who enjoy a more vibrant typing experience. While both are polished and neutral in actuation, the choice ultimately boils down to personal preference in sound and tactile sensations, as each switch brings something distinct to the keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a traditional typing experience with a slightly longer travel distance and a medium-light actuation force, the Sillyworks V2U would be an excellent choice. Its polished and silky feel, combined with a subdued yet bassy sound signature, creates a refined typing experience that is perfect for both home and work environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a more lively and bouncy typing sensation, the Dareu Mahjong switch excels in this area with its effortless keypress and distinctive poppy sound. The Mahjong's mild characteristics, combined with a polished finish, offer a welcoming range for typists seeking an engaging feedback experience. In essence, choose the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U for a classic, smooth feel with a moderate sound profile, or opt for the Dareu Mahjong if you're looking for a vibrant, easy-to-press switch that brings a playful essence to your typing sessions.
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