HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Dareu Snow both offer unique features to enhance your typing experience. The Hyacinth V2U provides a fuller travel distance of 3.9mm, reminiscent of traditional typing experiences, while also incorporating a 22mm spring for added bounciness. Crafted from nylon, these switches produce a softer, bassier sound signature, appealing to those who enjoy a more subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow showcases innovation with its use of POK material in both the top housing and stem, resulting in a deeper sound signature for a smooth linear typing experience. Each switch is categorized differently, with the V2U being described as 'Neutral', 'Polished', 'Silky', 'Subdued', and the Snow as 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', 'Bouncy'. While these general characteristics provide insight into each switch, a deeper exploration is needed to determine which switch best suits your typing 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
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
POK
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Dareu Snow, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. Polycarbonate is known for providing a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile, making it ideal for those looking for a more distinct sound when typing. Both switches also benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate, allowing for RGB lighting effects to shine through. However, while the Hyacinth V2U uses nylon for its bottom housing, the Snow opts for a POK material. Nylon offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, absorbing more sound for a rounder overall sound. On the other hand, the POK material in the Snow's bottom housing is exceptionally durable and smooth, offering a clacky typing experience.
Despite their differences in bottom housing materials, both the Hyacinth V2U and the Dareu Snow provide a balance of sound profiles thanks to their combination of top and bottom housing materials. The impact of the bottom housing material is felt when bottoming out keys, contributing to the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches. While both switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing, each switch has unique characteristics in their top housing material. The polycarbonate top housing of the Hyacinth V2U offers a resonant and clear sound profile, while the POK material in the Snow's top housing delivers a smooth and durable experience.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Dareu Snow ultimately affects the typing experience in distinctive ways. The Hyacinth V2U's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharp and crisp sound profile, complemented by the deeper and fuller sound produced by its nylon bottom housing. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow's POK top housing provides a smooth and clacky typing experience, supported by its durable POK bottom housing. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in sound and feel, making them suitable options for users seeking a specific typing experience.
Weight
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch both offer a smooth typing experience with their linear design. In terms of actuation force, the Hyacinth V2U requires a lighter 45 grams of force compared to the Snow's slightly heavier 50 grams. On the other hand, when it comes to bottom out force, the Hyacinth V2U has a lighter 52 grams force while the Snow requires a slightly heavier 60 grams. This means that the Hyacinth V2U provides a more consistent typing experience, as the actuation and bottom out forces are closer together compared to the Snow. Overall, those who prefer a lighter typing feel may lean towards the Hyacinth V2U, while those who enjoy a slightly heavier keystroke may find the Snow more to their liking.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Dareu Snow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for their faster response times. The Hyacinth V2U has a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a bit more depth and feedback compared to the Snow switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference for a shorter or slightly longer travel distance 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 Dareu Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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 linear switch offers a neutral and subdued sound profile, providing a moderate actuation force requirement with a soft and bassier sound signature. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch presents a thocky and low-pitched sound, delivering a deep and satisfying tone when typing. Depending on personal preference, the Hyacinth V2U may suit those looking for a quieter and more subdued typing experience, while the Snow switch is ideal for those who enjoy a richer and deeper sound while typing.
Moving on to feel, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch is known for its polished and silky typing experience, characterized by a smooth and refined finish that reduces friction and offers a sleek key travel. Contrastingly, the Dareu Snow linear switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback that gives keys a lively and rebounding sensation when pressed. If you prefer a more refined and smooth typing experience, the Hyacinth V2U may be the better choice, while the Snow switch is recommended for those who enjoy a more dynamic and responsive feel while typing.
Overall, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch offers a neutral and subdued sound with a polished and silky typing experience, catering to those who prefer a softer and smoother typing feel. Alternatively, the Dareu Snow linear switch provides a thocky and low-pitched sound with a bouncy and lively key feedback, appealing to individuals seeking a deeper and more dynamic typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your overall typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a fuller travel distance and a softer sound signature, the Hyacinth V2U may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper sound signature and a switch made with innovative POK material, the Snow might be the switch that suits your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so it comes down to personal preference in choosing the switch that will enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
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