HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U vs. Outemu Milk Blue
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Outemu Milk Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch stand out as popular options. The Hyacinth V2U offers a unique typing experience with its fuller travel distance of 3.9mm, reminiscent of traditional keyboards. Enhanced with a 22mm spring, these switches provide a bouncy feel and a softer, bassier sound thanks to their nylon construction. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue is known for its satisfying clicky feedback, making it a favorite among typists who enjoy auditory confirmation with each key press. While the Hyacinth V2U is described as neutral, polished, silky, subdued, the Milk Blue falls into a different category. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Outemu Milk Blue, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the bottom housing of the Hyacinth V2U is made of nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile as a result of the softer plastic absorbing more sound. The Milk Blue also features a nylon bottom housing, highlighting the preference for this classic switch housing material to create a rounder sound.
While the Hyacinth V2U and Milk Blue switches share the use of polycarbonate for their top housing, they diverge in their choice of bottom housing material. This contrast offers a unique typing experience for each switch, as the bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. The nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, albeit with subtle differences in tone and texture. Conversely, the top housing material influences the sound produced when a key is released, emphasizing the importance of a balanced combination in creating the desired auditory experience for users.
Overall, the housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Outemu Milk Blue play a crucial role in shaping the sound profile and typing feel of each switch. While both switches leverage polycarbonate for their top housing to achieve a sharper sound profile, the varying nylon bottom housings introduce differences in sound depth and texture. The contrast in housing materials underscores the importance of careful selection to cater to different preferences and typing styles. Whether choosing the Hyacinth V2U with its combination of polycarbonate and nylon or the Milk Blue with a similar housing composition, users can expect a tactile and responsive typing experience tailored to their individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch to the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, there are noticeable differences. The Hyacinth V2U has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Milk Blue's 50 grams, making the Hyacinth V2U the lighter of the two. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Hyacinth V2U requires 52 grams, whereas the force for the Milk Blue is unknown. While the Hyacinth V2U provides a medium-light typing experience, the Milk Blue's typing feel remains a mystery due to the lack of information on its bottom out force. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Hyacinth V2U being lighter and the Milk Blue potentially offering a different tactile experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on individual typing preferences and desired typing feel.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Hyacinth V2U offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Milk Blue. This means that the Hyacinth V2U may provide a slightly faster response time, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for quick reactions. On the other hand, the Milk Blue with its slightly longer travel distance may offer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a quicker, more responsive feel or a deeper, more satisfying keystroke experience.
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 Milk Blue 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
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch is known for its fuller travel distance and bouncy 22mm spring, resulting in a softer and bassier sound signature. This switch provides a neutral and subdued sound profile, suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch does not have a known sound description, making it harder to compare directly. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Hyacinth V2U is described as polished and silky, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and minimal resistance. In contrast, there is no known description of the feel of the Outemu Milk Blue switch. While it is unclear how the Milk Blue switch compares in terms of feel, it is essential to consider that the typing experience is influenced by factors such as the switch material and factory lubrication.
Overall, it can be concluded that the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch offers a unique combination of traditional typing experiences with modern enhancements, providing a softer sound signature and smooth typing feel. On the other hand, without specific information on the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, it is challenging to make a direct comparison. If you are looking for a switch with a fuller travel distance, bouncy feel, and a neutral sound profile, the Hyacinth V2U could be a suitable option. However, for those interested in a clicky switch, further research or testing may be necessary to determine if the Milk Blue clicky switch meets your preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you prioritize a fuller travel distance, bounciness, and a softer sound signature, the Hyacinth V2U would be a great choice. Additionally, if you prefer a switch with a neutral or subdued sound profile and a polished or silky feel, the Hyacinth V2U may be the ideal option for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a clicky switch with a specific bottom out force preference or sound and feel descriptions not covered here, the Milk Blue could be the better fit. Ultimately, the decision depends on your personal typing style and what characteristics are most important to you. Experimenting with different switches can help you find the perfect match for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Mentioned in this article
