HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offer unique typing experiences. The Hyacinth V2Us stand out for their fuller travel distance of 3.9mm, reminiscent of traditional typing, and a 22mm spring that adds a bouncy feel. Crafted from nylon, these switches produce a softer, bassier sound. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck switches provide a subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile. The Duck switches offer a gentle tactility that is perfect for those who prefer a more subdued typing feel. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, 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
58g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the SP-Star Duck both utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic that creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the difference lies in the bottom housing material. The Hyacinth V2U features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Duck opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing, maintaining the sharp and crisp sound profile throughout the switch.
Despite the differences in bottom housing material, both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the SP-Star Duck focus on creating a distinct sound profile through their use of polycarbonate in the top housing. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, whether you are pressing down on a key or releasing it. In the case of the Hyacinth V2U, the nylon bottom housing adds a deeper and fuller tone to the sound profile, while the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharp and crisp qualities throughout. These variations in housing materials create unique typing experiences for users of each switch.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the SP-Star Duck showcases the importance of balancing stiffness and softness to achieve the desired sound profile. While both switches utilize polycarbonate in the top housing for a sharp and crisp sound, their bottom housing materials add different depths to the sound profile. Whether you prefer a deeper and fuller tone from the nylon bottom housing of the Hyacinth V2U or the consistent sharpness of the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Duck, both switches offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Duck has a heavier bottom out force of 58 grams compared to the Hyacinth's 52 grams. While both switches fall into the medium category in terms of overall force required, the Hyacinth V2U provides a slightly lighter typing experience with a lower actuation force. This could be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck offers a more substantial feel with a heavier bottom out force, which some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, slightly shorter than the SP-Star Duck tactile switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. While the difference between the two distances may seem minimal, it could impact the typing experience for individuals who have a preference for either shorter or longer travel distances. Gamers may opt for the shorter travel distance of the Hyacinth V2U for quicker response times, while others may prefer the more substantial feel of the Duck's longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the desired 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 SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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, both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the SP-Star Duck switches offer a neutral sound profile, suitable for a variety of uses and environments. The Hyacinth V2U provides a more subdued sound compared to the Duck, with a softer and bassier signature thanks to its nylon construction. The Duck, on the other hand, offers a clean and crispy sound profile that complements its subtle tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Hyacinth V2U is described as offering a polished and silky typing experience, with smooth key travel and reduced friction. In contrast, the Duck switches provide a mild and approachable typing experience, with a buttery and polished feel that ensures a seamless and effortless keystroke. Both switches aim to deliver a comfortable and satisfying typing feel, with the Hyacinth V2U leaning towards a refined and smooth experience while the SP-Star Duck prioritizes a gentle and uniform sensation.
In conclusion, both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Hyacinth V2U combines a fuller travel distance with a bouncy spring for a mix of traditional and modern typing experiences, resulting in a softer and bassier sound signature. Meanwhile, the SP-Star Duck provides a subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile, accompanied by a mild and buttery feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a fuller travel distance and a softer, bassier sound signature, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. With a medium-light bottom out force and a bouncy feel enhanced by a 22mm spring, these switches provide a unique typing experience that combines traditional and modern elements. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch would be more suited to your preferences. With a medium bottom out force and a gentle tactility, these switches offer a smooth and approachable typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the Hyacinth V2U and the Duck switches will depend on your personal typing preferences and whether you value a fuller travel distance or a gentle tactile experience.
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