HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 43g
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g present two distinct options for typists with varying preferences. The Hyacinth V2U, celebrated for its longer 3.9mm travel distance and enhanced 22mm spring, provides a nod to traditional typing experiences while accommodating modern sensibilities. This switch delivers a neutral, polished, and silky feel, complemented by a softer, bassier sound signature thanks to its nylon construction, making it ideal for those seeking a blend of nostalgia and innovation. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g prioritizes a whisper-quiet experience, perfect for users in shared spaces or who simply prefer a muted sound. With an ultra-light bottom-out force of just 43g, it caters to light typists looking for a serene typing environment without sacrificing responsiveness. Both switches offer unique benefits tailored to individual typing styles and preferences. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
43g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
The HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g showcase distinct differences in their housing materials, which contribute significantly to their sound profiles and overall typing experience. The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U features a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper, more resonant sound. This stiffer plastic enhances the clarity and pitch, making it particularly suited for users who favor a crisper auditory feedback. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g utilizes a nylon top housing, which inherently creates a deeper, more muted sound. The softness of nylon absorbs sound waves, resulting in a duller tone that many typists find satisfying. This contrast illustrates how even the choice of a top housing material can significantly influence the auditory experience when typing.
Examining the bottom housings of both switches provides additional insight into their contrasting sound profiles. The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U employs a nylon bottom housing, providing a fuller sound by absorbing more noise and contributing to a more rounded auditory experience. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura - 43g incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing, which sharpens the sound profile with its clearer resonance. This split between nylon and polycarbonate in the bottom housing once again highlights their different acoustic signatures. The varying materials lead to distinct typing sensations, with the bottom housing greatly influencing the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is fully pressed down.
Despite these differences in materials, similar sound characteristics can still emerge from these switches depending on the user's typing style and the overall setup. While the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U's polycarbonate top results in a brighter timbre and its nylon bottom promises a fuller feel, the Silent Sakura - 43g’s nylon top yields a rounder sound and its polycarbonate bottom enhances clarity. Consequently, if a user prefers a unique blend of sharpness and depth, they could potentially achieve a balance of sound and tactile feedback by mixing and matching components from both switches or employing different acoustic dampeners. Ultimately, understanding the contrasting roles of the housing materials leads to a better appreciation of how they can shape a typist's experience.
Weight
The HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch present a fascinating comparison in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Hyacinth V2U features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, which categorizes it as medium-light. In contrast, the Silent Sakura switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, defining it as a light switch. This difference in weight implies that users who prefer a lighter typing experience may gravitate toward the Silent Sakura, which allows for less effort during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2U's slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces will appeal to those who appreciate a more substantial tactile feedback and push feel. Overall, while both switches have distinct characteristics, the Silent Sakura stands out as the lighter option, making it potentially more comfortable for long durations, while the Hyacinth V2U provides a bit more resistance for those who prefer that sensation.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, it is evident that the two switches cater to different preferences. The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Silent Sakura boasts a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Consequently, the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U is the shorter option, providing a more responsive feel that gamers often prefer for quicker key actuation. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura - 43g's lengthier travel distance is ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced keypress, offering a depth that some users find more satisfying. Therefore, individuals seeking faster response times may gravitate towards the Hyacinth V2U, while those who appreciate a deeper, more tactile experience might opt for the Sakura.
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 HMX Silent Sakura - 43g has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Sakura - 43g for $2.99.
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, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U has a nuanced profile, described as neutral and subdued. This means that while these switches provide a moderate actuation force and sound, they also produce a dampened noise when pressed, falling short of being completely silent. This creates an environment that’s suitable for various settings, making it versatile for both work and home use. The Silent Sakura - 43g, however, is engineered explicitly for silence, promising a typing experience that evokes the soft sound of raindrops. While the exact description of the sound profile isn't provided, it's clear that the Silent Sakura prioritizes a whisper-quiet operation, likely making it ideal for environments where noise is a concern.
In terms of feel, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U stands out with descriptors such as polished and silky, suggesting an exceptionally smooth typing experience characterized by reduced friction and seamless key travel. This refined touch can enhance the user experience significantly, providing satisfaction during prolonged typing sessions. The feel of the Silent Sakura - 43g is not detailed here, so its tactile sensations remain unknown; however, its intended use for light typists infers it may offer a gentler and softer feedback.
In conclusion, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U offers a balance of sound and feel that accommodates various typing environments and preferences, blending traditional experience with modern qualities. The Silent Sakura - 43g caters to those seeking quiet with potentially lighter feedback, making it an excellent choice for noise-sensitive settings. While the two switches may target slightly different user needs, they each provide their unique benefits and promise enjoyable typing experiences.
Conclusion
In closing, choosing between the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and environments. If you appreciate a more traditional typing experience with a fuller travel distance and prefer a slightly bouncier feel, the Hyacinth V2U might be your best bet. Its medium-light 52g bottom-out force offers a balanced tactile feedback that caters to both casual and dedicated typists, making it versatile for various uses, whether at home or in the office. On the other hand, if you seek a quieter and lighter touch while typing, the Silent Sakura - 43g switch would be ideal, especially in settings where noise is a concern. With its ultra-light actuation and whisper-quiet sound profile, it caters to light typists looking for a serene experience. Ultimately, the choice will depend on whether you prioritize tactile feedback and nostalgia or opt for a lightweight, stealthy typing experience.
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