HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, there are key differences to consider before making your decision. The hyacinth V2U offers a fuller travel distance of 3.9mm, providing a traditional typing experience with a bouncy feel due to its 22mm spring. Made from nylon, these switches produce a softer, bassier sound signature, perfect for those looking for a subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown switch doesn't offer any standout features but provides a tactile feedback that some users prefer. While the Hyacinth V2U is categorized as neutral, polished, silky, subdued, the Crystal Brown's category is undefined. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preference and typing style; 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
55g
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
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Outemu Crystal Brown both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which results in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that use RGB lighting. The similarity in top housing material means that both switches will likely produce similar sound profiles and aesthetics when it comes to clarity and pitch.
However, the key point of differentiation between the two switches lies in their bottom housings. The Hyacinth V2U utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown also features a nylon bottom housing, which means that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound depth and fullness.
While the top and bottom housings of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and Outemu Crystal Brown may differ, the impact of each housing material is split between the bottom and top of the switch. The bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressed down, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of the specific sound profile and typing experience desired.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, we find that both switches have a similar actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Hyacinth V2U has a bottom out force of 52 grams, while the Crystal Brown has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 55 grams. This difference in bottom out force may result in a slightly different typing experience for users who prefer a stronger push feel. The Hyacinth V2U, being lighter in bottom out force, may be preferred by those who like a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, such as during work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Crystal Brown, with its slightly heavier bottom out force, may appeal to users looking for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Hyacinth V2U offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, which can be advantageous for gamers seeking faster reactions. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown provides a slightly deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference - whether you prioritize speed and agility with the shorter travel distance of the Hyacinth V2U, or a more deliberate and tactile typing experience with the longer travel distance of the Crystal Brown.
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 Outemu Crystal Brown comes in at $3.10 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 linear switch offers a neutral and subdued sound profile, making it suitable for various settings and preferences. With a softer, more bassy sound signature due to its nylon construction, typing on the Hyacinth V2U provides a pleasant auditory experience. On the other hand, since the sound description for the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch is unknown, it's hard to directly compare the two in this aspect. However, keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch boasts a polished and silky typing experience, characterized by smooth key travel and reduced friction. This results in a sleek and refined feel when typing, enhancing the overall typing comfort. Conversely, the feel description for the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch is unknown, making it challenging to draw a direct comparison. Nevertheless, if the Crystal Brown offers a similar smoothness and reduced resistance in key presses as the Hyacinth V2U, users can expect a satisfying typing experience.
In conclusion, based on the available information, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch stands out for its traditional longer travel distance, bouncy spring, neutral and subdued sound profile, as well as a polished and silky typing feel. While the specific qualities of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch remain unknown, if it also provides a smooth and refined typing experience, users can anticipate comparable results in terms of feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you value a fuller travel distance, bounciness, and a softer sound signature, the Hyacinth V2U may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly higher bottom out force and are looking for a more traditional tactile typing experience, the Crystal Brown might be more suitable. Consider the sound and feel descriptions provided for each switch to make an informed decision based on your personal preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches boils down to your individual typing style and what type of experience you are looking to achieve.
Mentioned in this article
