HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) both offer unique characteristics that appeal to different preferences. The Hyacinth V2U stands out with its fuller travel distance of 3.9mm, providing a nod to traditional typing experiences with added bounciness from its 22mm spring. Crafted from nylon, these switches offer a softer, bassier sound signature, combining the best of both old and new typing sensations. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro is praised for its smoothness and buttery feel, making it a versatile choice for both gaming and typing. With a low, thocky sound and satisfyingly thick resistance, the Milky Yellow Pro is a budget-friendly option that excels in various scenarios. While the Hyacinth V2U is categorized as neutral, polished, silky, subdued, the Milky Yellow Pro is labeled as bassy, buttery, low-pitched, textured, thocky. Both switches have their unique strengths, 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
50g
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
4.00 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), it is clear that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This material is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound compared to stiffer plastics. As a result, both switches offer a duller and rounder sound when typing, providing a satisfying experience for users who prefer a softer feel to their key presses.
On the other hand, the top housing materials differ between the two switches. The Hyacinth V2U features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience. In contrast, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) utilizes a nylon top housing, offering a different sound profile that is deeper and fuller compared to the Hyacinth V2U. This difference in material results in a varied auditory experience for users of the two switches.
Overall, while the bottom housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) provide a similar typing experience with their use of nylon, the top housing materials offer contrasting sound profiles. The choice between a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper sound or a nylon top housing for a deeper sound becomes a matter of personal preference for users. Both switches excel in delivering a quality typing experience, with the housing materials contributing to the overall feel and sound of each key press.
Weight
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch has a lighter actuation force compared to the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, with 45 grams versus 50 grams, respectively. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Hyacinth V2U is also lighter at 52 grams compared to the Milky Yellow Pro's 62 grams. This means that the Hyacinth V2U offers a slightly lighter typing experience overall. Some may prefer the Hyacinth V2U for its lighter actuation and bottom out forces, which may be more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro may be preferred by those who enjoy a slightly heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches provide a medium level of force necessary for actuation and bottoming out, so users can expect similar results in terms of overall typing performance.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Milky Yellow Pro has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Hyacinth V2U. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the Hyacinth V2U being slightly shorter. For those looking for a faster response time, the Hyacinth V2U may be the preferred option due to its slightly shorter travel distance. However, for those who prefer a bit more depth and feedback when typing, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro may provide a more satisfying experience with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
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 Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has an MSRP of $2.33 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) for $2.30.
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 offers a more subdued and neutral sound profile, providing a softer, bassier sound signature that is not completely silent but more subtle compared to other switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is known for its bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound, delivering a deep, rich, and satisfying sound during key presses. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that can enhance the typing experience depending on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard.
When it comes to feel, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U is described as polished and silky, offering smooth and refined key travel with reduced friction. This results in a sleek typing experience that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Conversely, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is known for its buttery and textured feel, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience while also offering noticeable friction for users who prefer a textured typing sensation. Both switches excel in delivering a satisfying tactile feedback that can enhance the typing experience for different preferences.
In conclusion, while the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switches offer distinct sound and feel qualities, they both provide a unique typing experience that can cater to a wide range of users. The Hyacinth V2U leans towards a more traditional typing feel with a softer sound signature, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) excels in smoothness and buttery goodness with a low-pitched and thocky sound profile. Whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both, choosing between these switches ultimately depends on personal preference and the overall setup of your mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
Overall, when choosing between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, consider your preference for a fuller travel distance and bouncier feel with a soft, bassy sound signature for a more traditional typing experience, then the Hyacinth V2U would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you are looking for a smooth and buttery switch that excels in both gaming and typing with a satisfyingly thick resistance and low, "thocky" sound, then the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) would be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize the typing experience or the overall smoothness and versatility of the switch.
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