HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U vs. Akko Rosewood

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves pondering the nuances between different options, such as the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Akko Rosewood, both of which are linear switches but offer distinct experiences. The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U stands out with its traditional fuller travel distance of 3.9mm, appealing to those who prefer the tactile feedback reminiscent of vintage typing. Its 22mm spring not only contributes a delightful bounciness but also ensures a smooth typing experience, married with a softer, bassier sound courtesy of its nylon construction. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood captivates users with its deep, satisfying thocky sound, achieved right out of the box through a fine layer of factory-applied lubricant, delivering a unique auditory satisfaction. While the Hyacinth V2U leans towards a polished and subdued typing feel, the Rosewood promises an invigorating auditory experience. Each switch brings its own charm to the table, catering to different preferences in tactile sensation and sound. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.

By the numbers

HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U Linear

Akko Rosewood Linear

$3.50

$2.91 per 10

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Akko Rosewood, a clear distinction emerges between their top housings. The Hyacinth V2U utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This characteristic is attributed to polycarbonate's stiffer nature, enabling a clear and resonant audio experience that accentuates RGB lighting. In contrast, the Rosewood features a nylon top housing, known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer material, which absorbs sound and produces a more muted and rounder auditory response. Therefore, while both switches employ a nylon bottom housing that yields a similar sound experience of richness and fullness, the variance in their top housing materials leads to distinctly different sound signatures.

Both the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Akko Rosewood incorporate nylon for their bottom housing, which allows for some commonality in their acoustic properties. The nylon in both switches will produce a deeper sound when bottoming out, creating a rounded tonal quality as it absorbs impact noise. This similarity means that users can expect a comparable sound experience when typing, albeit with nuances brought on by the different top housing materials. However, when the switch is released, the way the sound is perceived will diverge due to the contrasting hardness of the polycarbonate and nylon used in the top housings.

The combination of these materials creates a compelling dynamic when considering the overall typing experience. The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U, with its polycarbonate top housing, is poised to deliver a brighter, more resonant audio experience, especially for users who prioritize RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the Akko Rosewood focuses on a richer, more subdued sound, appealing to those who favor a warmer auditory feedback. By understanding how the different housing materials interact, users can make informed choices based on their sound preferences and aesthetic goals. When evaluating these components, it's essential to acknowledge that the performance of a keyboard is shaped not only by the materials but also by the unique strengths each brings to the table.

Weight

The HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch present a subtle contrast in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In comparison, the Akko Rosewood features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a slightly lower bottom out force of 50 grams. This difference indicates that the Rosewood switch is the lighter option, making it potentially more suitable for users who prefer a softer touch, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Meanwhile, the Hyacinth V2U, with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, may appeal to those who favor a more tactile and substantial typing experience. Overall, if you're looking for a switch that combines a lighter push feel with a smoother key press, the Akko Rosewood would be the better choice, whereas the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U offers a firmer feel for a more pronounced typing experience.

Travel distance

The HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch features a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Akko Rosewood linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Hyacinth V2U the shorter of the two switches, catering to users who favor quicker key presses and more responsive feedback—ideal for fast-paced gaming. In contrast, the Rosewood's 4 mm travel distance aligns with the traditional preference for a deeper press, providing a more substantial keystroke that some users might find more satisfying, though potentially less immediate in terms of responsiveness. If users prefer a swift response, the Hyacinth V2U may be the better choice, whereas the Rosewood might appeal more to those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound profiles of the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Akko Rosewood linear switches, the Hyacinth V2U produces a softer, bassier sound signature characterized as neutral and subdued. This means that while it doesn’t draw excessive attention, it provides a pleasant acoustic experience that balances well between typing at home or in a more professional setting. On the other hand, the Rosewood switches are known for their deep and satisfying "thock" sound, attributed to a thin layer of factory-applied lubricant, suggesting a more pronounced and potentially more enjoyable acoustic feedback for enthusiasts seeking that auditory satisfaction. However, sound quality can also vary depending on the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used, so the overall auditory experience may differ in practice.

In terms of feel, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switches excel with descriptors like "polished" and "silky," signifying a smooth and refined typing experience. This provides reduced friction during key presses and results in an effortless transition between keystrokes, making it ideal for prolonged usage. On the contrary, the feel characteristics of the Akko Rosewood switches are unknown, which leaves a gap in direct comparison. However, the Hyacinth V2U's emphasis on smoothness suggests that if you prefer a smooth typing experience, you'll be satisfied with the results from either option if the Rosewood could provide comparable qualities.

In conclusion, while the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and Akko Rosewood linear switches have their unique auditory and tactile offerings, the Hyacinth V2U combines a fuller travel distance with a polished and silky feel, contributing to a nuanced experience. If sound is your priority, the Rosewood’s deep thock is likely more appealing, whereas the V2U excels in providing a smooth, low-profile typing experience. Ultimately, your choice may hinge on whether you prioritize sound or feel, but both options can cater to a wide range of typing preferences with their respective qualities.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Akko Rosewood linear switch ultimately depends on your preferences for key feel, sound, and typing experience. If you prefer a switch that combines a traditional typing feel with a slight modern twist, the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U is a fantastic option. Its medium-light actuation force and fuller travel distance of 3.9mm provide a delightful typing experience characterized by a bouncy and soft sound profile, making it suitable for both home and work environments. The silky and polished feel of this switch will offer you a refined typing experience, perfect for those who enjoy a smooth key travel with reduced friction.

On the other hand, if you are drawn to a lighter switch that delivers an immediate and satisfying auditory feedback, the Akko Rosewood linear switch may be more suited to your tastes. With a bottom-out force of just 50 grams, it offers a light touch that can make your typing experience feel effortless. More importantly, the deep, thocky sound signature of the Rosewood, enhanced by factory lube, provides an exciting auditory experience right from the start, perfect for enthusiasts who appreciate sound in their typing. In summary, choose the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U for a balanced, refined experience that emphasizes smoothness and versatility, or opt for the Akko Rosewood if you seek a lighter switch with a rich acoustic profile that immediately delights. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your priorities in typing feel, sound, and the overall aesthetic you want to achieve with your mechanical keyboard.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U Linear

$3.50

$2.91 per 10

Learn more

Akko Rosewood Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn more