HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the SP-Star RedBlue both offer unique features 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 and a bouncier feel with its 22mm spring. Made from nylon, these switches produce a softer, bassier sound signature, appealing to those who appreciate a blend of old-school and modern characteristics. On the other hand, the RedBlue linear switches offer a medium-light typing experience with a relatively low-pitched sound profile. While the Hyacinth V2U is categorized as neutral, polished, silky, and subdued, the RedBlue falls under low-pitched, neutral, mild, thocky, and polished. Each switch has its own strengths and qualities that may suit different preferences; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can determine the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
57g
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
Overall, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the SP-Star RedBlue share the polycarbonate top housing material, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more resonant sound. Both switches are ideal for RGB lighting due to their translucent top housing. However, the Hyacinth V2U differs with its nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the RedBlue's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound, creating a rounder sound overall.
The differences in the bottom housing materials between the Hyacinth V2U and the RedBlue result in distinct sound profiles when typing on these switches. The Hyacinth V2U's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the RedBlue's polycarbonate bottom housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. The impact of the bottom housing is felt during bottom-out sound and feel, influencing the overall typing experience. In contrast, the top housing material plays a key role in the sound when releasing a key, highlighting the importance of both housing materials in creating the switch's unique sound profile.
While the top housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the SP-Star RedBlue are the same, their differing bottom housing materials result in noticeable differences in sound and feel. The Hyacinth V2U's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing creates a deeper, fuller sound profile, while the RedBlue's polycarbonate top and bottom housing produce a sharper, crisper sound. Both switches offer unique typing experiences, with the bottom housing material influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing material impacting the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, we can see that the Hyacinth V2U has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the RedBlue, which has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Hyacinth V2U having a bottom out force of 52 grams and the RedBlue having a bottom out force of 57 grams, making them both medium-light in terms of force required to bottom out. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Hyacinth V2U may be the better option, while those who prefer a slightly heavier feel may lean towards the RedBlue switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, which is slightly shorter than the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, the slight difference in length may result in a different typing experience for users. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Hyacinth V2U, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the RedBlue switch. In general, the differences in travel distance between these two switches may be subtle, but they can make a noticeable impact depending on individual preferences.
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 RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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 switch offers a neutral and subdued profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. The RedBlue switch, on the other hand, provides a low-pitched and thocky sound signature, offering a more bass-heavy and satisfying tone. This difference in sound profile means that the Hyacinth V2U may be preferred by those looking for a more understated typing experience, while the RedBlue switch is better suited for those who enjoy a deeper and more resonant sound when typing.
When it comes to feel, the Hyacinth V2U switch is described as polished and silky, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The RedBlue switch, on the other hand, offers a mild and polished feel, giving users a gentle typing experience with a safe, middle-ground approach in terms of sound and feel. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, with the Hyacinth V2U focusing on smoothness and refinement, while the RedBlue offers a gentle and approachable feel.
Overall, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and SP-Star RedBlue switches offer different sound and feel profiles, catering to different preferences in typing experiences. Those looking for a neutral and subdued sound with a polished and silky feel may prefer the Hyacinth V2U, while individuals who enjoy a low-pitched and thocky sound with a mild and polished feel may lean towards the SP-Star RedBlue switch. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and feel during typing sessions.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a fuller travel distance and a softer, bassier sound signature, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. With its medium-light bottom out force of 52 grams and a polished, silky feel, it offers a unique typing experience that blends the old and the new. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a low-pitched sound profile and a slightly higher bottom out force of 57 grams, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch would be more suitable for you. Its medium-light typing experience and polished finish provide a comfortable and approachable option for most users. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your preferences for typing feel, sound, and overall experience.
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