HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the merits of various options, such as the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the HMX SU, both linear switches offering unique characteristics to enhance the typing experience. The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U stands out with its fuller travel distance of 3.9mm, which harks back to traditional typing feels while diverging from contemporary trends towards shorter travel. Enhanced by a bouncy 22mm spring and crafted from nylon, these switches produce a softer, bassier sound signature, making them ideal for those who appreciate a more tactile and nostalgic typing experience. In contrast, the HMX SU distinguishes itself with a full PA12 housing and a T5 stem, yielding a subtly deeper sound profile that may appeal to users looking for a more muted auditory feedback. Both switches cater to those who enjoy smooth keystrokes and a linear feel, yet they offer distinct sound and travel characteristics that can influence your typing pleasure. 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
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T5
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the HMX SU, notable differences arise primarily from the top housing materials. The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its rigidity and ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This stiffer material enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound when typing, making it a popular choice for those who appreciate an articulate auditory experience, especially when combined with RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the HMX SU features a nylon top housing, a classic choice that engenders a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon allows for greater sound absorption, creating a more muted and rounded auditory profile, which may appeal to users preferring a subtler typing experience.
Both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the HMX SU share the same material for their bottom housings: nylon. This similarity leads to a consistent auditory experience when bottoming out the keys across both models. The use of nylon in the bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, characteristic of switches with this material. The sound produced here is relatively uniform, as both models absorb sound effectively due to the inherent properties of nylon, thereby dulling sharper noises and creating a more relaxed sound environment during use.
Despite the contrasting top housing materials leading to differences in overall sound profiles, the bottom housing ensures a degree of similarity in typing experience for both switches. Users of either model will notice that while the top housing distinctly influences the sound when releasing a key, the nylon bottom housing grounds the typing experience in a fuller, richer sound. In this way, while the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U may offer a sharper top sound due to its polycarbonate construction, the deeper, softer sound profile provided by the nylon bottom housing ensures that both switches can still deliver an enjoyable and engaging typing experience.
Weight
The HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch exhibit some similarities and differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, which means they require the same amount of pressure to register a keystroke. This consistency suggests that users will experience a similar typing sensation in terms of actuation feel. However, the bottom out forces differ slightly, with the Hyacinth V2U reaching a force of 52 grams and the SU at 50 grams. This indicates that the Hyacinth V2U is marginally heavier in terms of the force needed to press the key all the way down compared to the SU, which is generally considered lighter due to its lower bottom out force. Users looking for a lighter experience for longer typing sessions might prefer the HMX SU, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U.
Travel distance
The HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the HMX SU linear switch features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference indicates that the Hyacinth V2U offers a more pronounced feel when pressed down, which some users might appreciate for its greater depth and tactile feedback. In contrast, the SU switch, with its shorter travel distance, caters to those who favor a quicker response, making it an appealing choice for gamers seeking efficiency in their keystrokes. Ultimately, if you're looking for a more traditional switch experience with a more robust feel, the Hyacinth V2U is the better option, while the SU switch is ideal for those who prioritize speed and responsiveness.
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 SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU for $3.29.
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
The sound profile of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U is often characterized as neutral and subdued. This means that the switch offers a moderate sound level that makes it versatile for both beginners and experienced users, suitable for a variety of environments, from quiet home offices to bustling workplaces. The V2U's nylon construction contributes to a softer, bassier tonal quality, producing a sound that is pleasant while still being unobtrusive. In contrast, the HMX SU switch has a relatively deep sound profile, although specific descriptors haven’t been mentioned. The interplay of housing material and construction in the SU switch may provide a different auditory experience, but without detailed descriptors, comparisons are limited.
When it comes to the feel of each switch, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U shines due to its polished and silky characteristics. This results in a luxurious typing experience, marked by a smooth and refined key travel that minimizes resistance. The factory lubing and high-quality materials contribute to this smoothness. In contrast, specific information regarding the feel of the HMX SU switch is not provided, so it is challenging to gauge how it measures against the Hyacinth V2U in terms of tactile feedback and smoothness.
Overall, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch offers a well-rounded typing experience with its full travel distance, sound qualities, and smooth feel, appealing to a wide range of users. While the HMX SU switch may present a different flavor, particularly with its deeper sound profile, precise characteristics are not available for comparison. Users can expect a quality typing experience from both switches; however, the Hyacinth V2U stands out with documented qualities that cater to those who appreciate a traditional yet modern approach to mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the HMX SU linear switch should align closely with your preferences for typing feel, sound, and overall experience. If you prefer a typing experience that leans towards the traditional with a fuller travel distance of 3.9mm and a slightly firmer bottom-out force of 52 grams, the Hyacinth V2U is likely the better option. Its medium-light actuation allows for a balance of responsiveness and stability, making it suitable for both typing and gaming. The polished and silky feel, combined with a neutral yet subdued sound profile, creates a smooth and enjoyable experience that works well in quieter environments, such as an office. On the other hand, if you're drawn to a lighter touch and are looking for an ultra-responsive switch with a bottom-out force of only 50 grams, the HMX SU linear switch may be your preference. Its full PA12 housing provides durability, and although less is specified about the feel, it is designed to foster a reputable sound profile. This switch might be more fitting if you enjoy a rapid typing experience and need something that suits high-speed gaming scenarios. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches boils down to whether you prioritize traditional feel and sound damping (Hyacinth V2U) or a lighter actuation for quick responsiveness (HMX SU).
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