HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U, a linear switch, to the SP-Star Polaris Purple, a tactile switch, there are several key differences to consider. The Hyacinth V2U offers a fuller travel distance of 3.9mm, providing a more traditional typing experience with its longer travel than the current trend of shorter travels. Enhanced with a 22mm spring, these switches also offer an extra layer of bounciness. Crafted from nylon, the V2Us produce a softer, bassier sound signature. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple is known for its big tactile bump, offering an exhilarating typing experience with a snappy sound profile. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences - the V2Us providing a more subdued and silky feel, while the Polaris Purples offer a mild and polished tactile experience. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
While both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the SP-Star Polaris Purple share polycarbonate top housings, they differ in the material used for their bottom housings. The Hyacinth V2U features a nylon bottom housing, known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Polaris Purple utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, contributing to a sharper and crisper sound profile with its stiffer plastic composition. This distinction in bottom housing material can result in varying sound experiences when typing on the switches, with the bottom-out sound and feel influenced by the bottom housing's qualities.
Despite their differing bottom housings, the use of polycarbonate in the top housings of both the Hyacinth V2U and the Polaris Purple leads to similar sound profiles characterized by sharpness, higher pitch, and clarity. Polycarbonate's stiffness creates a resonant sound that is further enhanced by its translucency, making it an ideal material for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Whether typing on the Hyacinth V2U or the Polaris Purple, users can expect a consistent sound experience when pressing down on the keys, thanks to the shared polycarbonate top housing.
Overall, the choice between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the SP-Star Polaris Purple may come down to personal preference in sound profile. The Hyacinth V2U offers a deeper and fuller sound experience with its nylon bottom housing, while the Polaris Purple provides a crisper and more resonant sound with its polycarbonate bottom housing. Both keyboards feature top housings that deliver sharpness and clarity, ensuring a consistent typing experience for users. Whether prioritizing sound depth or sharpness, both options offer quality housing materials that contribute to a unique typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, it's clear that the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in the typing experience. The Hyacinth V2U has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a slightly heavier bottom out force of 52 grams, providing a medium-light feel. In contrast, the Polaris Purple lacks information on actuation force but boasts a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy. The Hyacinth V2U offers a lighter touch, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple provides a stronger push feel for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Both switches have their own advantages, with the Hyacinth V2U being lighter and the Polaris Purple being heavier, catering to different preferences depending on individual typing style and preference.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch is 3.9 mm, while the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Hyacinth V2U has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Polaris Purple. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Polaris Purple being at the higher end of the spectrum, the difference in travel distance may be subtle but can be noticeable depending on personal preference. If you prefer a faster response time, the shorter travel distance of the Hyacinth V2U may be more suitable, especially for gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, the slightly longer travel distance of the Polaris Purple may be preferred for a more satisfying tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance.
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 SP-Star Polaris Purple has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Purple for $5.00.
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
When it comes to sound, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch offers a neutral and subdued sound profile, providing a more subtle and dampened typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch also boasts a neutral sound profile, but with a snappier characteristic. Depending on the choice of board and keycaps, the sound of each switch can be further influenced.
Moving on to feel, the Hyacinth V2U switch is known for its polished and silky typing experience, offering smooth and refined key travel with reduced friction. In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch presents a mild and polished feel, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Both switches excel in offering a comfortable and satisfying typing sensation, with the Hyacinth V2U leaning towards a smoother feel, while the Polaris Purple emphasizes a more gentle approach.
Overall, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch each bring unique qualities to the table. While the Hyacinth V2U leans towards a fuller travel distance and a softer, bassier sound signature with polished and silky feel, the Polaris Purple showcases a big tactile bump for an exhilarating typing experience with a snappy sound profile and a mild, polished feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience an individual is seeking. Both options provide a balance of modern design elements and traditional typing characteristics, ensuring a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom out force, travel distance, and sound profile. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a fuller travel distance for a more traditional typing experience, along with a softer, bassier sound signature, then the Hyacinth V2U may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force with a big tactile bump for an exhilarating typing experience and a snappy sound profile, then the Polaris Purple could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal typing style and the type of typing experience you are seeking.
Mentioned in this article
