HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U vs. KTT Mint
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the KTT Mint switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U boasts a fuller travel distance of 3.9mm, offering a nod to traditional typing experiences and diverging from the current trend of shorter travels. Enhanced with a 22mm spring, these linear switches provide an added layer of bounciness, creating a softer, bassier sound signature thanks to their nylon construction. On the other hand, the KTT Mint is celebrated for its satisfyingly smooth linear feel, featuring a long pole stem that results in a poppy thockiness while typing. With a light and fleeting typing sensation, the Mint switch offers a different experience compared to the Hyacinth V2U. While both switches provide excellent quality and performance, they cater to distinct preferences and typing styles. 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
53g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the KTT Mint, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches intended to use RGB lighting. While both switches share this feature, they may differ in other aspects of their construction.
One key difference between the two switches lies in their bottom housing materials. The Hyacinth V2U utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Mint's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This variation in bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of the switch.
Overall, the choice between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the KTT Mint may come down to personal preference and desired typing experience. While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and crisp sound profile, the Hyacinth V2U's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Mint's polycarbonate bottom housing. Understanding how each housing material contributes to the overall typing experience can help users make an informed decision based on their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, we find that both switches have a similar actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Hyacinth V2U has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 52 grams compared to the Mint's 53 grams. This difference is minimal and may not be noticeable to some users. Both switches fall into the category of medium-light when it comes to weight. The slight variation in bottom out force may result in a slightly firmer typing experience with the Mint switch, while the Hyacinth switch may feel slightly softer. Ultimately, whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience will determine which switch is the better choice.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, making it slightly shorter than the KTT Mint linear switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. While the Hyacinth V2U offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, some users may find it too abrupt. On the other hand, the KTT Mint provides a slightly deeper press with its longer travel distance, which some users may prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. Overall, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 KTT Mint comes in at $2.91 per 10 switches.
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 neutral and subdued sound profile, providing a moderate and dampened sound when pressed. On the other hand, the KTT Mint is characterized by a low-pitched and neutral sound, with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches offer a moderate actuation force requirement, making them suitable for various intents and purposes. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors like the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Hyacinth V2U is known for its polished and silky typing experience, featuring a smooth and refined finish that reduces friction and enhances key travel. The Mint, on the other hand, provides a mild and approachable typing experience, with a safe middle-ground zone for sound and feel. Both switches offer a smooth typing feel, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience for users.
Overall, if you are looking for a switch with a fuller travel distance and bouncy feel, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and more satisfying typing experience with a poppy thockiness, the KTT Mint could be the ideal option. Whichever switch you choose, both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that you will get similar results in terms of quality and performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, consider your preference for a fuller travel distance with a bouncier feel and softer sound signature offered by the Hyacinth V2U. This switch marries traditional typing experiences with modern features, making it suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and poppy thockiness with a light and fleeting type feel, the Mint might be the better option for you. It provides a satisfyingly smooth linear switch experience with a mellow and low-pitched sound profile. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your typing preferences and the type of typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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