HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch, you may come across the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp), both offering unique features to enhance your typing experience. The Hyacinth V2U is a linear switch with a fuller travel distance of 3.9mm, providing a traditional typing feel that is complemented by a bouncy 22mm spring. Made from nylon, these switches produce a softer, bassier sound, perfect for those who enjoy a quieter typing experience. In contrast, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) is a tactile switch designed for noise-sensitive environments, offering a medium bump and padded bottom-out feel while maintaining subdued audio feedback. While the Hyacinth V2U is ideal for those looking for a smooth typing experience, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) caters to those who seek both tactility and silence. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Standard
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
Overall, both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, providing a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as the light can shine through the housing.
In contrast, the bottom housing of the Hyacinth V2U is made of nylon, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) also features a nylon bottom housing, offering similar qualities in terms of sound profile. This material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
While both switches share similarities in their housing materials, the differing bottom housings between the Hyacinth V2U and the Silent T1 (Shrimp) may lead to variations in typing experience. The properties of the bottom housing impact the sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing the key. Understanding these distinctions can help mechanical keyboard enthusiasts determine which switch aligns best with their preferences for sound and typing feel.
Weight
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch differ in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Hyacinth V2U has a relatively lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Silent T1's unknown actuation force. However, the Silent T1 has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, whereas the Hyacinth V2U has a bottom out force of 52 grams. In terms of weight, the Hyacinth V2U offers a balance between lightness and responsiveness, making it suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming. Conversely, the Silent T1 provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, ideal for those who prefer a heavier force for their switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, it is evident that the Hyacinth V2U has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.9 mm, whereas the Silent T1 (Shrimp) has a travel distance of 4 mm. While the 0.1 mm difference may seem minimal, it can actually make a noticeable impact on the typing or gaming experience for some individuals. The Hyacinth V2U's slightly shorter travel distance may appeal to those seeking a faster response time, such as gamers, while the Silent T1's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying and tactile typing experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired 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 Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent T1 (Shrimp) for $5.57.
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 more neutral and subdued sound profile, with a softer, bassier sound signature. This makes it suitable for various environments and preferences, providing a more traditional typing experience with a moderate sound level. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) provides a muted sound experience, minimizing noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. This makes it ideal for noise-sensitive environments where a quieter typing experience is desired.
When it comes to feel, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U is described as polished and silky, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This enhanced smoothness can result in a sleek typing feel that many users appreciate. In contrast, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) is known for its stepped and accented tactile feel, providing a gentle two-stage bump that is not overwhelming but still prominent. Additionally, the switch is also described as polished, further contributing to a smooth keypress experience.
Overall, both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the V2U provides a more traditional typing experience with a neutral and subdued sound profile, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) caters to those looking for a tactile and silenced switch with a muted sound and a stepped, accented feel. Depending on individual preferences and typing needs, users can choose between these switches to achieve their desired typing experience, knowing that both options offer quality and performance in their own right.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches, consider the following guidelines. Opt for the Hyacinth V2U if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force, a fuller travel distance, and a softer, bassier sound signature. These switches offer a neutral sound profile and a polished, silky feel for a refined typing experience. On the other hand, go for the Silent T1 (Shrimp) if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, a tactile and silenced switch, and muted sound for noise-sensitive environments. These switches offer a medium bump, padded feel, and a stepped or accented tactile experience. Ultimately, your choice should depend on your preference for typing experience, sound profile, and tactile feedback. Choose the Hyacinth V2U for a traditional yet modern feel, or the Silent T1 (Shrimp) for a tactile and silent typing experience.
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