HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Gateron Quinn offer distinct experiences for users to choose from. The Hyacinth V2U is a linear switch with a fuller travel distance of 3.9mm, providing a traditional typing feel and bouncy sensation with its 22mm spring. Crafted from nylon, these switches produce a softer, bassier sound signature, blending the old and the new. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn is a tactile switch that offers a unique combination of crisp tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile due to its specially designed nylon housings. Users can expect a precise and clean tactile bump with each keystroke. While the V2U is categorized as neutral, polished, silky, subdued, the Quinn is described as snappy, bassy, polished, bouncy, clacky, accented, buttery, creamy, low-pitched, resonant. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences 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
59g
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
3.40 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
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Gateron Quinn, it is clear that the Hyacinth V2U uses a polycarbonate top housing while the Quinn utilizes a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Hyacinth V2U is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, perfect for RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Quinn produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. This contrast in sound profiles highlights the importance of housing materials in determining the overall typing experience for mechanical keyboard users.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials of these switches, both the Hyacinth V2U and the Quinn feature nylon bottom housings. Nylon is known for its softer plastic composition, which helps in absorbing sound and creating a duller, rounder sound profile. This means that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of bottom-out sound and feel. The use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that users will experience a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on either the Hyacinth V2U or the Quinn, showcasing the importance of material choice in enhancing the overall typing feel.
Overall, while the housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Gateron Quinn may differ in their top housing construction, they both share nylon bottom housings. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of the sound and feel when bottoming out keys on either switch. The contrast between the sharper, crisper sound profile of the polycarbonate top housing in the Hyacinth V2U and the deeper, fuller sound profile of the nylon top housing in the Quinn allows users to choose a switch that best suits their preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, it is clear that the Hyacinth is lighter while the Quinn is heavier. The Hyacinth V2U has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, providing a medium-light typing experience. In contrast, the Quinn offers a higher actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, resulting in a medium-heavy tactile feel. Both switches have their advantages, with the lighter actuation force of the Hyacinth being more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the heavier Quinn provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing comfort and feedback.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Gateron Quinn tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Quinn switch has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Hyacinth switch. A shorter travel distance can be preferred by those looking for faster response times, such as gamers, while a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying key press for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing experience desired. Both switches offer unique benefits, and selecting the one with the preferred travel distance will ensure a more comfortable typing 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 Gateron Quinn has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Quinn for $5.50.
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 linear switch offers a neutral and subdued sound profile, making it suitable for various typing environments without being too intrusive. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch provides a bassy, clacky, low-pitched, and resonant sound experience, adding a unique depth and character to each keystroke. While the Hyacinth V2U offers a softer and more neutral sound, the Quinn switch delivers a richer and more immersive auditory experience with its distinct sound characteristics.
As for the feel of the switches, the Hyacinth V2U is described as providing a polished and silky typing experience, with smooth key travel and reduced friction for a refined feel. In comparison, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offers a range of tactile sensations, including snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy attributes. This means users can expect a responsive and lively typing feel with the Quinn switch, enhancing the overall tactile feedback and typing experience.
Overall, when considering both sound and feel qualities, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch offers a more subdued and neutral sound profile with a polished and silky typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch provides a richer and more immersive sound experience with a variety of tactile sensations for a dynamic typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style, as both switches offer their own unique characteristics for an enhanced mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch or the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, you should take into account your individual preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a fuller travel distance with a softer, bassier sound profile and a medium-light actuation force, the Hyacinth V2U may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a unique combination of crisp tactility with a rich, resonant sound profile and a medium-heavy actuation force, the Gateron Quinn could be more suitable for your typing style. Ultimately, your decision should be based on how each switch aligns with your desired typing experience and sound preferences.
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