HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and Outemu Red Panda stand out for their unique features. The Hyacinth V2U is a linear switch that offers a fuller travel distance of 3.9mm, providing a nod to traditional typing experiences while incorporating a bounciness from its 22mm spring. Crafted from nylon, these switches deliver a softer, bassier sound signature, making them ideal for those who prefer a neutral, polished, silky, and subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the Red Panda is a tactile switch that offers a light-medium amount of tactility alongside a raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound. Categorized as thocky and mild, these switches provide a different typing feel compared to the V2Us. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different 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
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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 Red Panda, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches intended for use with RGB lighting due to its translucency. However, while both switches share this material in their top housings, they differ in their bottom housing material - the Hyacinth V2U utilizes a nylon bottom housing, eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Red Panda also utilizes a nylon bottom housing for a similar effect. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate.
It is interesting to note that the qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom housings of these switches. The bottom housing material has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. This highlights the importance of considering both housing materials when assessing the overall sound profile and typing experience of a mechanical switch. While both the Hyacinth V2U and the Red Panda feature nylon bottom housings for a deeper sound profile, their contrasting top housings offer unique sound characteristics that may appeal to different preferences.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches like the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Outemu Red Panda plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and typing experience. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharper sound profile, their nylon bottom housings contribute to a deeper and fuller sound. Understanding how each housing material affects the overall sound and feel of a switch can help users make informed decisions based on their preferences. Whether opting for the crisper sound of polycarbonate or the fuller sound of nylon, the combination of different housing materials in a switch offers a unique typing experience that caters to a variety of preferences.
Weight
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Hyacinth V2U requires 52 grams, while the Red Panda needs 60 grams. Both switches fall within the medium-light to medium range in terms of force. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Hyacinth V2U for longer typing sessions, while those seeking a more pronounced typing experience may opt for the Red Panda with its slightly heavier force requirements. In either case, users can expect a satisfying typing experience based on their personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, it is evident that the Hyacinth V2U has a longer travel distance of 3.9 mm compared to the Red Panda's 3.3 mm. This means that the Hyacinth V2U requires slightly more pressure and provides a deeper keystroke feel when compared to the Red Panda. However, both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for gamers or individuals looking for quick response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a more responsive but slightly shallower keystroke (Red Panda) or a deeper and more tactile feel (Hyacinth V2U).
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 Red Panda comes in at $3.40 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
In terms of sound, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U offers a neutral and subdued sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of uses and environments, whether for beginners or advanced users. The Red Panda, on the other hand, provides a thocky sound experience, characterized by a deep and satisfying tone when pressed and released. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the overall setup of your keyboard.
Moving on to feel, the Hyacinth V2U is known for its polished and silky typing experience, offering a smooth and refined key travel that minimizes friction and enhances the overall typing feel. In contrast, the Outemu Red Panda provides a mild typing experience, offering a gentle and approachable feel that falls in a safe, middle-ground zone. Again, the decision between the two switches will come down to individual preference and desired typing experience.
Overall, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. While the V2U provides a neutral and subdued sound with a polished and silky feel, the Red Panda delivers a thocky sound and a mild typing experience. As such, users can expect a unique typing experience depending on their choice between the two switches, ultimately enhancing their overall mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch or the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a fuller travel distance and a softer, bassier sound signature with a medium-light actuation force, the Hyacinth V2U may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a light-medium amount of tactility and a clackier, higher-pitched sound with a medium actuation force, the Red Panda could be more suitable. Consider your typing preferences, whether you value a traditional typing experience or a more unique sound profile, and choose the switch that best suits your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer their own distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles.
Mentioned in this article
