HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U vs. KTT Semi Mute
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the KTT Semi Mute switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the KTT Semi Mute are both linear mechanical keyboard switches, but they offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Hyacinth V2U stands out for its fuller travel distance of 3.9mm, providing a traditional typing experience with a bouncy feel thanks to its 22mm spring. Crafted from nylon, these switches produce a softer, bassier sound. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute is designed for those who prioritize a noise-free environment, despite its misleading name as it operates silently. With a linear actuation and advanced dampening technology, the Semi Mute offers a comfortable typing experience. While the V2U is categorized as neutral, polished, silky, and subdued, the Semi Mute is labeled as buttery, mild, muted, and neutral. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether you prefer a traditional typing feel or prioritize a silent and comfortable typing experience. However, let's dive deeper into the specifics so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the KTT Semi Mute, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, perfect for users looking for a clear and resonant typing experience. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it an ideal material for switches designed for RGB lighting, offering a visually appealing aspect to the keyboards. However, while both switches share this feature in their top housing, they differ in their bottom housing material.
The Hyacinth V2U features a nylon bottom housing, known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switch, adding a unique tactile element to the typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing, maintaining a sharp and clear sound profile similar to its top housing material. This differing choice in bottom housing material may influence the overall sound and feel of the switches for users who prefer a specific typing experience.
Overall, while both the Hyacinth V2U and the KTT Semi Mute boast polycarbonate top housing for a clear and resonant sound profile, their choice of bottom housing material sets them apart. The Hyacinth V2U's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, creating a unique typing experience, while the KTT Semi Mute's polycarbonate bottom housing aligns with its top housing for a consistent sound profile. Whether users prefer a duller and rounder sound or a sharper and crisper one, these housing material choices cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, it is evident that the Hyacinth V2U is lighter in both aspects. The Hyacinth V2U has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, whereas the Semi Mute has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams. The Hyacinth V2U provides a more medium-light typing experience, while the Semi Mute offers a slightly heavier feel. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, the Hyacinth V2U may be the better option. However, for users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Semi Mute would be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces between these two switches offer users the opportunity to choose based on their individual preferences for typing feel.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the KTT Semi Mute linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may be noticeable to some users. Those who prefer a more abrupt key press may lean towards the Hyacinth V2U, while those who prefer a slightly deeper key press may prefer the Semi Mute. Overall, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to more traditional switches.
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 KTT Semi Mute has an MSRP of $3.97 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi Mute for $3.55.
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
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch offers a neutral and subdued sound profile, producing a softer and more subtle sound when pressed. This switch marries the traditional typing experience with a bouncy 3.9mm travel distance and a nylon construction that creates a bassier sound signature. In terms of feel, the V2U provides a polished and silky typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel for a refined feel. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is designed for a noise-free environment with advanced dampening technology for a muted sound profile. The Semi Mute switch offers a buttery and mild typing experience, delivering a smooth and fluid keystroke with gentle characteristics. Both switches offer a comfortable and gratifying typing feel, but the Hyacinth V2U leans towards a more traditional typing experience with added bounciness and a softer sound signature, while the KTT Semi Mute prioritizes a noise-free environment and a smooth, gentle typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and typing environment.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, you should consider your priorities. If you value a fuller travel distance, softer sound signature, and a bouncier typing experience, then the Hyacinth V2U may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a completely silent operation, linear actuation, and advanced dampening technology for a noise-free typing environment, the KTT Semi Mute switch is the way to go. Both switches offer a moderate actuation force requirement, making them suitable for various users and purposes. Whether you prefer a polished and silky typing feel or a buttery and mild typing experience, both switches have unique qualities to enhance your typing sessions. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to your preference for travel distance, sound profile, and typing comfort.
Mentioned in this article
