HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 53g
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often weigh the unique characteristics that each option brings to the table. The HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U stands out with its extensive travel distance of 3.9mm, appealing to those who crave a more traditional typing experience, complete with a subtle bounciness courtesy of its 22mm spring and a delightful, bassy sound signature as a result of its nylon construction. This switch, known for its neutral and polished feel, offers a silky typing experience that might appeal to users looking for a blend of old-school charm and modern functionality. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g provides a whisper-quiet typing experience, characterized by its balanced 53g actuation force that allows for a light and satisfying keystroke. This switch is ideal for typists who seek to minimize noise while still enjoying a tactile sensation reminiscent of gentle raindrops. Both switches cater to specific user preferences, with the Hyacinth V2U celebrating a robust typing experience and the Silent Sakura focusing on tranquility and precision. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
53g
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 - 53g exhibit distinct differences in their housing materials, with the Sillyworks utilizing a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the Silent Sakura features a nylon top housing and a polycarbonate bottom housing. The contrast in materials significantly affects the sound profiles of the two switches. The polycarbonate top housing of the Hyacinth V2U produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound, thanks to its stiffness which enhances resonance, making it ideal for RGB lighting. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Silent Sakura offers a deeper and full-bodied sound, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound waves, resulting in a duller and rounder acoustic experience. Thus, while the Hyacinth V2U may provide a more pronounced clarity and brightness in its keystrokes, the Silent Sakura caters to users who prefer a more muted and rounded auditory sensation.
When examining the bottom housings, a similar pattern emerges. The Hyacinth V2U's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper sound experience, aligning with the acoustic qualities associated with nylon materials. Conversely, the Silent Sakura's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the crispness and clarity that polycarbonate is known for. This difference plays a pivotal role in the overall typing experience; while the bottom housing directly influences the bottom-out sound and feel, the response from the top housing introduces its own characteristics when the key is released. Users can expect the Hyacinth V2U to give that satisfying thock from the nylon bottom while benefiting from the snappy release attributed to the polycarbonate top, creating a balance of sharpness and warmth.
Ultimately, the combined effects of these housing materials allow both switches to excel in their own unique ways, appealing to different user preferences. For those preferring a more high-pitched and resonant typing experience, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U is an excellent choice, while the Silent Sakura - 53g caters to individuals who enjoy a deeper, fuller sound. While the differences in sound profiles and tactile feedback may prevent both switches from providing identical results, users can leverage these variations to suit their personal typing style. In effect, both switches incorporate a blend of sound characteristics dependent on their respective housing materials, thereby allowing users to select a switch that best matches their auditory and tactile preferences.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch, we find that both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally responsive and suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, their bottom out forces differ slightly: the Hyacinth V2U has a bottom out force of 52 grams, while the Silent Sakura reaches 53 grams. This means that while the initial keystroke feel is identical, the Silent Sakura may provide a slightly firmer bottoming out experience, which some users may prefer for a more substantial typing feel. Overall, both switches can deliver a similar typing experience, though the Silent Sakura is marginally heavier at the bottom out, catering to those who appreciate a stronger push feel.
Travel distance
The HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch features a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This makes the Hyacinth V2U the shorter of the two switches. When comparing these switches, those who prefer quicker response times may lean towards the Hyacinth V2U due to its shorter travel distance, which can enhance gaming performance. Conversely, the Silent Sakura - 53g, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial key press and a traditional typing experience. For individuals who favor a more responsive feel without sacrificing too much depth, both switches offer reasonably comparable distances, making either a viable option depending on personal preference.
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 - 53g comes in at $3.50 per 10 switches.
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 provides a nuanced auditory experience characterized as neutral and subdued. This allows for a moderate actuation force, making it suitable for a variety of environments, whether at home or work. While it has a softer, bassier sound signature due to its nylon construction, it's not completely silent, offering a pleasant typing ambiance that is dampened yet satisfying. Comparatively, the sound profile of the Silent Sakura - 53g remains unspecified, yet its design aims for a whisper-quiet experience akin to gentle raindrops, suggesting a potential for a more muted or less prominent sound, particularly desirable in quieter settings.
When it comes to feel, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U shines with its polished and silky characteristics, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience. The use of high-quality materials and likely factory lubing contributes to reduced friction and a luxurious key travel, appealing to those who prioritize tactile pleasure in their typing sessions. The Silent Sakura - 53g lacks a detailed description regarding its feel, which leaves it open for interpretation; however, given its engineering focus on a gentle and light keystroke, one might anticipate a decent level of smoothness, though this remains unverified.
In conclusion, both switches cater to different preferences within the linear switch realm. The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U combines a fuller travel distance with a polished feel and subdued sound profile, making it a versatile option for users who appreciate both traditional and modern elements in their typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura aims for a quiet typing experience with a balanced actuation force, making it an intriguing option for those who prioritize noise reduction. While the Hyacinth provides clear tactile and auditory feedback, the Silent Sakura's specifics remain ambiguous, suggesting that users may lean towards the Hyacinth for a more defined experience. Ultimately, each switch offers distinct qualities for an enjoyable typing journey, allowing newcomers to explore what suits them best.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch largely depends on your typing preferences and environment. If you favor a more traditional typing experience with a longer travel distance and enjoy a subtler sound profile, the Hyacinth V2U is likely your best bet. Its medium-light bottom-out force and polished, silky feel provide a responsive and satisfying typing experience that blends nostalgia with modernity, making it ideal for both casual and professional settings. On the other hand, if you're looking for a quieter solution, especially in shared spaces or at night, the Silent Sakura - 53g is designed to deliver a whisper-quiet experience while still providing a light yet fulfilling keystroke. Its slightly higher actuation force gives just enough feedback without being overwhelming, making it perfect for those who type frequently but prefer to maintain a peaceful atmosphere. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you prioritize tactile feedback and depth in each keystroke or a tranquil typing experience with a slightly increased actuation force.
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