HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Cherry MX Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Sillyworks hyacinth V2U and the Cherry MX red are both standout options in the linear switch category. The hyacinth V2U offers a unique blend of traditional typing nostalgia with its fuller 3.9mm travel distance and bouncy 22mm spring, while also giving a softer, bassier sound thanks to its nylon construction. On the other hand, the Cherry MX red provides a classic feel with a slightly heftier touch and deeper sound profile, perfect for those who enjoy a more robust typing experience. The hyacinth V2U is categorized as neutral, polished, silky, subdued, while the MX red falls under thocky, low-pitched, textured. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these 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
N/A
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 Cherry MX Red, one noticeable difference is the top housing material. The Hyacinth V2U features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the MX Red's nylon top housing. The polycarbonate's stiffness leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile, making it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the MX Red absorbs more sound due to its softer plastic composition, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile, albeit with a duller and rounder sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing material, both the Hyacinth V2U and the Cherry MX Red utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches. However, the properties of the nylon material, being softer and more sound-absorbent, may lead to a duller and rounder sound when compared to a stiffer plastic material. Despite this, the nylon bottom housing provides a consistent typing experience for users of both switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials greatly influences the sound profile and typing experience of a switch. While the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Cherry MX Red both offer a deep and full sound profile with their nylon bottom housings, the use of polycarbonate in the Hyacinth V2U's top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound compared to the MX Red's nylon top housing. Ultimately, whether you prefer a brighter, more resonant sound with polycarbonate or a deeper, fuller sound with nylon, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, it is evident that they both have the same actuation force of 45 grams, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of initial keypress. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Hyacinth V2U requires 52 grams, while the MX Red's bottom out force is unknown. This makes the Hyacinth V2U slightly heavier in terms of force required for full keypress. Users who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Cherry MX Red, while those who prefer a slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force may opt for the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, both switches offer similar actuation forces but differ in bottom out force, providing options for users with different typing preferences.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, we see that the Hyacinth V2U has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the MX Red has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Hyacinth V2U is the shorter option, offering a slightly faster response time that may be preferred by gamers seeking quick reactions. On the other hand, the MX Red provides a slightly longer travel distance, which may offer a more satisfying depth to the keystrokes for some users. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference regarding the desired balance between speed and keypress depth. Both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, so users can expect comparable performance from either option.
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 Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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 neutral and subdued sound profile, creating a dampened and subtle sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red provides a thocky and low-pitched sound, resulting in a deep, rich, and satisfying tone with a more bass-heavy and mellow quality. Both switches offer different auditory experiences, with the V2U being more neutral and softer while the MX Red delivers a deeper and robust typing sound.
When it comes to feel, the Hyacinth V2U is described as polished and silky, offering a smooth and refined finish for a sleek typing experience. This smoothness is enhanced by the silky feel, providing reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red is labeled as textured, indicating noticeable friction when pressed, which may appeal to users who prefer a textured typing experience. The V2U prioritizes a polished and silky typing feel, while the MX Red focuses on a textured sensation for users seeking more tactile feedback.
Considering the sound and feel differences between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Cherry MX Red switches, users can expect distinct experiences with each. The V2U provides a softer and more subdued sound with a polished and silky feel, creating a balanced and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the MX Red offers a deeper and more robust sound profile with a textured feel, appealing to users who prefer a more tactile typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel during typing sessions.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you value a traditional typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force and a fuller travel distance, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch would be a great choice for you. The Hyacinth V2U offers a softer, bassier sound signature and a smoother, refined finish, providing a unique typing experience that marries the old and the new. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heftier feel with a deeper sound profile and a low-pitched, thocky sound when pressed, the Cherry MX Red linear switch might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your choice between the Hyacinth V2U and MX Red switches will depend on whether you prioritize the typing feel and sound profile offered by each switch.
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