HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring 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, a linear switch, and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, a tactile switch. The Hyacinth V2U stands out for its fuller travel distance of 3.9mm, providing a nod to traditional typing experiences, while also offering a bouncier feel with its 22mm spring. Crafted from nylon, these switches produce a softer, bassier sound compared to other switches. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is perfect for those looking for medium-high tactility, thanks to its two-staged spring. Typing on these switches results in deep, resonating thocks. While the Hyacinth V2U offers a hybrid of old and new, the Shadow switch provides a unique tactile experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, we see that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The translucent nature of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the overall design of the keyboard. However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Hyacinth V2U opts for nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the contrary, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring sticks with polycarbonate for its bottom housing, maintaining a consistent sharp and resonant sound profile throughout the switch.
The contrasting housing materials used in the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring give each switch its own unique sound characteristics. The Hyacinth V2U's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing provides a blend of clear, crisp sounds with deeper and fuller tones. This creates a versatile typing experience suitable for both gaming and typing tasks. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate top and bottom housing offer a more consistent sharp and resonant sound profile, making it ideal for users who prefer a more precise and uniform typing feel.
Despite their differences in housing materials, both the Hyacinth V2U and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring deliver high-quality sound profiles that cater to different preferences. While the Hyacinth V2U offers a mix of sharp and deep tones with its polycarbonate and nylon housing combination, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring provides a more consistent and precise sound experience with its all-polycarbonate construction. Whether you prioritize a versatile typing experience or a uniform sound profile, both switches offer top-notch performance in their own right.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, we can see that the Hyacinth V2U has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's 55 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Hyacinth V2U sits at 52 grams, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is slightly heavier at 63 grams. This means that the Hyacinth V2U provides a lighter typing experience overall, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a slightly more substantial typing feel. Both switches fall within the medium-light to medium range, providing a balance between ease of use and tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for typing force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch is 3.9 mm, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Shadow (Ink) being slightly longer. Gamers may prefer the Hyacinth V2U for its shorter travel distance, allowing for faster response times. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Shadow (Ink) switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing 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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring for $3.57.
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 offers a neutral and subdued sound profile, making it suitable for various typing environments without being too distracting. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch provides a clacky and high-pitched sound, giving a more crisp and percussive typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound, you can choose between the softer, bassier tone of the Hyacinth V2U or the sharper, brighter sound of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U is described as providing a polished and silky typing experience due to its smooth and refined finish, offering reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped tactile feel, providing a strong and distinct tactile bump with each keypress. If you prefer a smoother, more refined typing feel, the Hyacinth V2U would be the better choice, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is ideal for those seeking a more tactile and responsive experience.
Taking all the available information into consideration, if you enjoy a fuller travel distance and softer sound, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U would be your go-to choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile typing experience with a sharper sound profile, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is the way to go. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to your personal typing style and preferences when choosing between the Hyacinth V2U and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, it's important to consider your preferences in terms of actuation force, travel distance, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a fuller travel distance reminiscent of traditional typing experiences, the Hyacinth V2U may be the better choice for you. The softer, bassier sound signature and the neutral to subdued sound profile make it suitable for a variety of environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-bottom out force and are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility and deep, resonating thocks, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is worth considering. Its sharp and snappy clacky sound and sharp tactile feedback provide a distinct typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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