HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U vs. Everglide Rice Pudding
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Everglide Rice Pudding switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often face the delightful challenge of selecting from a myriad of options tailored to different typing experiences. On one hand, the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U stands out with its traditional fuller travel distance of 3.9mm, catering to those who appreciate an old-school typing feel. Enhanced with a 22mm spring, these linear switches provide a bouncy sensation, allowing for a subdued yet polished auditory experience thanks to their nylon construction. On the other hand, the Everglide Rice Pudding switches, known for their smooth operation and deep sound, offer a delightful balance of satisfaction and precision that appeals to gamers and typists alike. Their compatibility with Wooting's innovative keyboards further enhances their appeal, making them a versatile choice for performance-driven users. While the Hyacinth V2Us cater to nostalgic typing enthusiasts looking for a softer sound, the Rice Pudding switches attract those who prioritize smoothness and advanced functionality. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for your unique needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Custom stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Everglide Rice Pudding are notably similar, with both switches featuring polycarbonate for their top housing and nylon for their bottom housing. The choice of polycarbonate in the top housing enhances the switches' sound profiles, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper auditory experience. Both brands leverage the qualities of polycarbonate to take advantage of its stiffness, which contributes to clarity and resonance. Furthermore, this translucency not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the switches, particularly for users who enjoy RGB lighting, but also ensures a dynamic lighting experience that can be uniformly appreciated across both models.
In contrast, the bottom housing materials present a divergence in auditory characteristics. Both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Everglide Rice Pudding utilize nylon for the bottom housing, which results in a consistently deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon's softer composition absorbs sound more effectively compared to its stiffer counterparts, creating a rounder audio experience. This consistent use of nylon across both switch models indicates that, while the top housing contributes a bright crispness to the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing provides a richness and depth during key presses, leading to a balanced and harmonious typing experience.
As a result, despite variations in certain aspects such as design elements or additional features, users can expect a generally similar auditory performance from both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Everglide Rice Pudding. With polycarbonate tops delivering a brighter tone and nylon bottoms enriching the acoustic experience, users will likely encounter a comparable sound profile, characterized by the distinctive sharpness of polycarbonate paired with the warmth of nylon, in both cases. This overlapping material choice ensures that whether one is using a Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U or an Everglide Rice Pudding, the keys will provide a satisfying tactile and auditory experience.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch, notable differences emerge in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U requires an actuation force of 45 grams and has a bottom out force of 52 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the Everglide Rice Pudding offers a lighter typing experience with an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This difference in weight translates to a more effortless keystroke with the Rice Pudding, which can be beneficial for users who prioritize longer typing sessions or rapid gaming actions. While both switches provide a satisfying push feel, the Hyacinth's heavier forces suit users who enjoy a more substantial feedback during typing. Overall, if you're looking for a lighter switch, the Rice Pudding is the preferable choice, while the Hyacinth V2U caters to those who prefer a bit more resistance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch, it's evident that there is a difference between the two. The Hyacinth V2U features a longer travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Rice Pudding has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This distinction makes the Rice Pudding a better choice for gamers seeking a more responsive keypress due to its reduced travel distance, which can facilitate quicker actions during gameplay. Conversely, the Hyacinth V2U's longer travel distance might appeal to those who prefer a more substantial key press, offering a different tactile experience that avoids the abruptness that can come with shorter distances. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for either responsiveness or a more pronounced depth in keystrokes.
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 Everglide Rice Pudding has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Rice Pudding for $6.79.
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 is characterized by a softer, bassier sound signature due to its nylon construction. It falls into the neutral and subdued categories, providing a moderate sound profile that is suitable for various environments, whether at home or in an office. This moderate actuation force creates a more pleasant auditory experience without being overly disruptive, striking a balance that can be appreciated by both beginners and seasoned typists. In contrast, the Everglide Rice Pudding switch is known for delivering a deep sound that complements its smooth operation. While specific descriptors for the sound quality of the Rice Pudding are lacking, its reputation suggests it also offers a satisfying auditory feedback that adds to the overall typing experience, making both switches appealing in their own right.
In terms of feel, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U excels with its polished and silky characteristics. The smooth and refined finish allows for a sleek typing experience, reducing friction and enhancing key travel, which is further improved by a bouncier 22mm spring. This combination results in a comfortable typing experience that minimizes resistance during use, thus appealing to users who seek a refined tactile feedback. However, there isn't specific information on the feel of the Everglide Rice Pudding switch, which leaves an unknown aspect in its tactile experience. Nevertheless, its reputation for a balanced typing experience implies a decent level of satisfaction for those who prioritize a smooth and reliable operation.
Overall, while the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and Everglide Rice Pudding switches diverge in explicit details, both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Hyacinth V2U provides a captivating auditory experience with its softer sound signature and a refined tactile feel that enhances typing comfort. Meanwhile, the Rice Pudding's deep sound and smooth operation also promise a satisfying typing experience, particularly for those seeking versatility with full compatibility on innovative keyboards. Whether you choose the bouncy yet bassy Hyacinth or the smooth and deep-sounding Rice Pudding, both switches can yield a delightful typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch ultimately depends on your unique typing preferences and the specific typing environment you find yourself in. If you favor a slightly firmer push and appreciate a traditional typing experience with fuller travel and a rounder sound, the Hyacinth V2U is your best bet. Its 52 grams bottom-out force makes it versatile for both casual and professional use, while its bounciness and subdued, bassy sound provide a satisfying experience without being overly intrusive. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a quick and smooth actuation, the Rice Pudding switch, with its 48 grams bottom-out force, is ideal for a more rapid typing style. Its deep sound and compatibility with advanced keyboards, like Wooting's, cater to those who enjoy both performance and versatility. In summary, opt for the Hyacinth V2U for a more tactile and traditional feel, while the Rice Pudding will serve you well if you're chasing speed and compatibility in an innovative setup.