HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U vs. Jerrzi Seashell
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Jerrzi Seashell switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Jerrzi Seashell, both linear switches. The Hyacinth V2U stands out for its fuller travel distance of 3.9mm, providing a traditional typing feel that sets it apart from the current trend of shorter travels. With a 22mm spring for added bounciness and crafted from nylon for a softer, bassier sound, the V2U combines old-school charm with modern features. On the other hand, the Seashell switch wows users with its stunning purple hue and offers a light and clacky typing experience that remains comfortable and delightful even during extended use. While the V2U boasts a neutral, polished, silky, subdued profile, the Seashell switch is described as clacky, feathery, easy-to-press, high-pitched, easy-to-press, polished. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to personal preference and typing style, so let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities to help you make the best decision for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Jerrzi Seashell both feature polycarbonate top housings, which generate sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profiles. The translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting, allowing for a visually appealing experience. However, the housing material is not the only factor that contributes to the overall sound profile of a switch. Both switches also use nylon bottom housings, which elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the polycarbonate top housing.
While both switches utilize similar housing materials, the way in which these materials are utilized in the Hyacinth V2U and the Seashell differs slightly. The nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, emphasizing a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing has more of an impact on the sound when a key is released, creating a sharper and crisper sound. This split between top and bottom housing materials allows for a dynamic typing experience that balances different sound profiles throughout the keystroke.
Overall, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Jerrzi Seashell both offer unique sound profiles based on the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing. While they share similar characteristics in terms of materiality, the way in which these materials affect the sound profile of each switch varies slightly. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound profile from the top housing or a deeper, fuller sound profile from the bottom housing, both switches offer a balanced typing experience that caters to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, both have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Hyacinth V2U has a bottom out force of 52 grams, while the Seashell's bottom out force is unknown. This makes the Hyacinth V2U the heavier option between the two. The Hyacinth V2U offers a medium-light feel with its actuation and bottom out forces, making it suitable for those who prefer a balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Seashell's unknown bottom out force may result in a lighter typing experience, which could be preferable for those who type for extended periods. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both of these switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers. However, with the Hyacinth V2U having a slightly longer travel distance, it may provide a slightly more substantial feel compared to the Seashell. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired level of responsiveness.
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 Jerrzi Seashell has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Seashell for $2.30.
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 more neutral and subdued sound profile, with a moderate actuation force requirement and a dampened sound when pressed. This makes it suitable for various purposes, providing a subtle sound signature. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell switch is known for being clacky and high-pitched, producing a sharp and bright sound when pressed. This switch caters to those who prefer a more crisp and percussive typing experience. Keep in mind that the actual sound produced by a switch also depends on other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
As for the feel, the Hyacinth V2U switch is described as polished and silky, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This results in a sleek typing feel that enhances overall comfort. In contrast, the Jerrzi Seashell switch is feathery and easy-to-press, requiring minimal exertion from your fingers and offering gentle resistance during key presses. This reduces finger fatigue and makes typing effortless and comfortable, perfect for extended typing sessions. Additionally, both switches offer a polished finish, contributing to a smooth typing experience.
Overall, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switch emphasizes a fuller travel distance and a bouncier feel with a neutral and subdued sound profile, providing a blend of old and new typing experiences. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell switch stands out with its stunning purple hue, clacky and high-pitched sound, and feathery and easy-to-press feel, offering a unique aesthetic appeal and enjoyable typing experience. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches provide distinct qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences. Experimenting with both switches on different keyboards and keycaps can help you determine which one suits your typing needs best.
Conclusion
To sum up, you should choose the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force, a fuller travel distance, and a softer, bassier sound signature. These switches offer a neutral or subdued sound profile and a polished or silky feel, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, you should opt for the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch if you desire a switch with no specific bottom out force, a stunning purple hue, and a light and clacky typing experience. The Seashell switches have a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, along with a feathery and easy-to-press feel that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and aesthetics.
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