HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the KTT Strawberry both offer unique features to enhance your typing experience. The Hyacinth V2Us stand out for their fuller 3.9mm travel distance, providing a traditional typing feel with a bouncier touch thanks to their 22mm spring. Crafted from nylon, these switches also produce a softer, bassier sound signature, blending old-school nostalgia with modern comfort. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberries boast a smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance, all housed in an attractive pink and clear casing. The Strawberry switches are praised for their low-pitched, frictionless operation, offering a buttery and polished typing experience. While both switches have their strengths, whether you prefer the fuller travel and soft sound of the Hyacinth V2U or the smooth actuation and attractive design of the KTT Strawberry, let's delve deeper into their specific characteristics to help you make the best decision for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the KTT Strawberry, one significant similarity is the use of polycarbonate for the top housing. Both switches boast a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to the stiffness of polycarbonate. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it a great choice for switches intended for RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the overall design. However, where they differ is in the bottom housing material. The Hyacinth V2U features a nylon bottom housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Strawberry opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing, emphasizing the clear and resonant sound qualities associated with this stiffer plastic material.
The choice of housing materials for the top and bottom components of switches plays a crucial role in determining the overall typing experience and sound profile. When different housing materials are used for the top and bottom, as seen in the Hyacinth V2U and the Strawberry, each material brings its unique characteristics to the switch. The feel and sound when pressing down on a key will mainly be influenced by the bottom housing material, whether it's nylon for a deeper sound or polycarbonate for a sharper profile. On the other hand, the top housing material will have a more significant impact on the sound produced when releasing a key, showcasing the crispness and clarity associated with polycarbonate in both the Hyacinth V2U and the Strawberry.
While the Hyacinth V2U and the KTT Strawberry share the use of polycarbonate for their top housings, their choice of bottom housing materials sets them apart in terms of sound profile and typing experience. The Hyacinth V2U with its nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Strawberry's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound, emphasizing clarity and resonance. These differences highlight the importance of housing materials in determining the overall feel and sound characteristics of mechanical switches, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch offer a noticeable contrast in weight. The Hyacinth V2U has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Strawberry's 43 grams, making it slightly easier to trigger keystrokes. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Hyacinth V2U has a lower force of 52 grams compared to the Strawberry's heavier 62 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. This means that the Hyacinth V2U is lighter in terms of actuation force, while the Strawberry is heavier in terms of bottom out force. Depending on personal preference, users may opt for the lighter actuation force of the Hyacinth V2U for extended typing sessions, or the heavier bottom out force of the Strawberry for a more satisfying keystroke feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the KTT Strawberry linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Strawberry switch slightly longer in terms of travel distance compared to the Hyacinth switch. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Hyacinth being slightly shallower. Gamers looking for faster response times may lean towards the Hyacinth switch, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Strawberry switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 KTT Strawberry comes in at $4.91 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 Hyacinth V2U switch is known for its neutral and subdued sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of typing environments. This switch offers a soft, bassy sound signature due to its nylon construction. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch is described as having a low-pitched sound, providing a more mellow and bass-heavy tone compared to other switches. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that can enhance the typing experience depending on personal preference and surrounding factors such as keyboard casing and keycaps.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Hyacinth V2U switch is lauded for its polished and silky typing experience, offering reduced friction and smooth key travel. This results in a sleek and refined typing feel that can enhance overall typing speed and comfort. Similarly, the KTT Strawberry switch is described as frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished, providing an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience. Both switches prioritize smoothness and comfort, allowing for a fluid typing sensation that minimizes resistance and maximizes typing efficiency.
Overall, both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the KTT Strawberry switches offer unique qualities that can cater to different preferences and typing needs. While the Hyacinth V2U switch leans towards a fuller travel experience with a neutral and subdued sound profile, the KTT Strawberry switch focuses on providing a low-pitched sound and a frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished typing feel. Depending on whether you prefer a traditional or more modern typing experience, both switches provide excellent options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking to enhance their typing performance and comfort.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force with a fuller travel distance and a softer, bassier sound signature, the Hyacinth V2U may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly higher bottom out force with a smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and a low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Strawberry could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on factors such as actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel that align with your typing style and preferences.
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