HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear. The Hyacinth V2U is a linear switch that stands out for its fuller travel distance of 3.9mm, providing a more traditional typing experience compared to the current trend of shorter travels. Enhanced with a 22mm spring, these switches offer an extra layer of bounciness and are crafted from nylon, resulting in a softer, bassier sound signature. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear is known for its innovative design, featuring a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. The type feel of this switch is silky smooth without being overly polished. The Hyacinth V2U is categorized as neutral, polished, silky, and subdued, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear is categorized as subdued, neutral, mild, snappy, buttery, and polished. Each switch offers unique characteristics that may appeal to different preferences, but let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by these switches, making them ideal for users who prefer a more distinct typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the incorporation of RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to these switches.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the Hyacinth V2U utilizes nylon, while the Semi-Silent Linear also opts for nylon. Nylon as a bottom housing material is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon bottom housings, providing a different tactile experience compared to the top housing material.
While both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing, the use of different bottom housing materials in the Hyacinth V2U and the Semi-Silent Linear results in variations in sound and feel. The qualities of each housing material are distributed between the top and bottom of the switch, impacting the sound and feel when typing. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound produced when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches aim to provide an enhanced typing experience with their unique housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch, we see that the Hyacinth V2U has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Hyacinth V2U has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 52 grams compared to the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch's bottom out force of 62 grams, making it a medium-light switch in terms of overall force required. The Semi-Silent Linear switch, on the other hand, falls into the medium category. When considering weight, some users may prefer the Hyacinth V2U for its lighter actuation force which allows for longer typing sessions, while others may opt for the Semi-Silent Linear switch for a heavier push feel and more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those seeking faster response times, such as gamers. The difference of 0.2 mm between the two may not be noticeable to most users, but those who prefer a slightly deeper key press may find the Hyacinth V2U to be slightly more satisfying. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of travel distance, providing users with a quick and efficient typing or gaming experience.
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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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, both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches offer a subdued experience, with a more dampened and subtle sound compared to other switches on the market. While the Hyacinth V2U has a softer, bassier sound signature due to its nylon construction, the Semi-Silent Linear is specifically designed to have a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while still maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. This means that both switches are suitable for various environments, whether you prefer a quieter typing experience at home or in a workplace setting. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as your keyboard and keycap choices.
In terms of feel, the Hyacinth V2U is described as offering a polished and silky smooth typing experience. With a fuller travel distance and a 22mm spring adding a layer of bounciness, these switches provide a refined and smooth key travel, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches are said to have a mild and snappy feel, offering a more gentle typing experience with super responsive characteristics. Combined with a buttery smooth keystroke experience, these switches provide a seamless and effortless typing sensation.
In conclusion, both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Hyacinth V2U leans towards a fuller and more traditional typing experience with its softer sound and polished feel, the Semi-Silent Linear switch provides a modern and innovative approach with its semi-silent sound profile and silky smooth feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a fuller travel distance and a softer, bassier sound signature, along with a medium-light bottom out force and a mix of traditional and modern typing experiences, the Hyacinth V2U may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a semi-silent switch with a whisper-quiet topping-out sound, a clacky bottom-out sound, and a silky smooth typing feel, along with a medium bottom out force, then the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch might suit your preferences better. Ultimately, the decision will depend on your personal typing preferences and the specific qualities you value in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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