HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U vs. KTT Pine
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the KTT Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the KTT Pine both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Hyacinth V2U stands out for its fuller travel distance of 3.9mm, providing a nod to traditional typing experiences with a bouncy 22mm spring for added feedback. Crafted from nylon, these switches produce a softer, bassier sound signature, offering a mix of the old and new typing sensations. On the other hand, the KTT Pine Linear Switches are medium-heavy and buttery smooth, designed to minimize friction with a factory-lubed finish for effortless key travel. While the Hyacinth V2U is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Polished', 'Silky', and 'Subdued', the Pine is labeled as 'Bassy', 'Buttery', 'Creamy', and 'Low-pitched'. As such, each switch has its unique qualities that may appeal to different users based on their typing preferences. 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
58g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the KTT Pine both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This results in a more clear and resonant sound profile, making it ideal for switches used with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this top housing material, the materials used for their bottom housings differ. The Hyacinth V2U utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to nylon's softer plastic properties that absorb more sound. In contrast, the Pine incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile, emphasizing clarity and resonance.
The split housing materials in the Hyacinth V2U and the KTT Pine have different impacts on the overall sound and feel of the switches. When pressing down on a key, the qualities of the bottom housing are more prominent, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. The nylon bottom housing of the Hyacinth V2U creates a duller and rounder sound compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Pine, which maintains clarity and sharpness. Conversely, the top housing's material plays a greater role in the sound when releasing a key, affecting the overall typing experience. Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches offer distinct audio profiles that appeal to different preferences.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the KTT Pine contributes significantly to their sound profiles and overall typing experiences. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and clear sound, their bottom housing materials, nylon and polycarbonate respectively, offer contrasting sound qualities. The Hyacinth V2U provides a deeper and fuller sound profile with its nylon bottom housing, while the Pine delivers a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate bottom housing. These differences allow users to select a switch that best suits their preferences for sound and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, both have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Hyacinth V2U has a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it lighter than the Pine, which has a bottom out force of 58 grams. The Hyacinth V2U provides a medium-light typing experience, while the Pine offers a medium typing experience. The lighter actuation and bottom out force of the Hyacinth V2U may appeal to those who prefer longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods, while the heavier bottom out force of the Pine could provide a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, slightly shorter than the KTT Pine linear switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, the Hyacinth V2U offers a slightly quicker response time compared to the Pine. Gamers who prioritize speed and responsiveness may prefer the Hyacinth V2U. On the other hand, those who prefer a bit more depth and tactile feedback might lean towards the Pine. Overall, the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, so users can expect similar performance from both options.
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 Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $4.15.
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, suitable for various typing environments. The sound produced is softer and bassier due to the nylon material used in its construction. On the other hand, the KTT Pine linear switch is described as bassy and low-pitched, offering a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses. Both switches provide different auditory experiences, with the Hyacinth V2U leaning towards a more traditional, muted tone, while the Pine switch delivers a more resonant and bass-heavy sound.
In terms of feel, the Hyacinth V2U linear switch is polished and silky, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This switch is designed to offer a comfortable and effortless typing sensation. On the other hand, the KTT Pine linear switch is buttery and creamy, offering a seamless and uniform typing experience with a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation. Both switches prioritize smoothness and comfort, giving users a satisfying typing experience with minimal resistance.
Overall, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and KTT Pine linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Hyacinth V2U focuses on a more traditional typing experience with a softer sound profile and polished feel, the KTT Pine switch provides a richer and more resonant sound with a buttery and creamy typing sensation. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the two switches to achieve their desired typing experience. Additionally, both switches offer a pleasant typing experience, with similar results in terms of smoothness and comfort for different typing needs.
Conclusion
Therefore, when deciding between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, consider the characteristics that best align with your preferences. If you value a fuller travel distance and a softer, bassier sound signature, the Hyacinth V2U might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth, buttery typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a forest green aesthetic, the KTT Pine could be the switch for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what features are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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