HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the HMX Swift both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Hyacinth V2U distinguishes itself with a fuller travel distance of 3.9mm, providing a nod to traditional typing experiences with a bouncier feel thanks to its 22mm spring. Crafted from nylon, these switches also produce a softer, bassier sound signature, appealing to those who appreciate a more subdued typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Swift offers a deeper sound profile due to its full nylon housings, along with a silky smoothness that complements its delicate 42g actuation force. While the Hyacinth V2U is categorized as neutral, polished, silky, subdued, the Swift is categorized as clacky, easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, creamy. Both switches have their own unique strengths, but diving deeper into their specific characteristics will help you decide on the best switch for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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 extended spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the HMX Swift, it is evident that they both utilize nylon as their bottom housing material. This choice leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches of either keyboard. Nylon's softness absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. However, when examining the top housing material, the Hyacinth V2U stands out with its polycarbonate housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, particularly beneficial for switches using RGB lighting due to its translucency.
Despite their differences in top housing material, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and HMX Swift share the commonality of utilizing nylon for their bottom housing. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a more satisfying typing experience for users. The impact of the bottom housing is felt more during the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound when releasing a key. This split of qualities between the top and bottom housings adds a unique dynamic to each keyboard's overall sound profile and typing experience.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the HMX Swift showcases the importance of material selection in achieving specific sound profiles. While the Hyacinth V2U's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound, the nylon bottom housing of both keyboards contributes to a deeper and fuller sound experience. Each material's unique properties, whether stiffer polycarbonate or softer nylon, play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing feel and acoustics of the keyboards. Ultimately, the differences in housing materials between the two keyboards highlight the nuanced approach manufacturers take to optimize sound quality and user experience in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, we can see that the Hyacinth V2U is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, both falling in the medium-light category. On the other hand, the HMX Swift is lighter, with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option. Choosing a switch with a lighter actuation force is ideal for those who prefer a lighter keystroke for longer typing sessions or gaming, while a heavier actuation force provides a more tactile typing experience. Overall, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches offer users the opportunity to choose the one that best suits their preferences for typing or gaming.
Travel distance
Both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the HMX Swift linear switches have the same travel distance of 3.9 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This consistency in travel distance ensures that the typing experience with both switches will yield similar results in terms of feel and key response. Overall, both switches offer a standard travel distance that is neither shorter nor longer than the other.
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 Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift for $2.99.
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 linear switch offers a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, suitable for a wide range of users and environments. The sound produced is described as subdued, providing a dampened and subtle sound signature when compared to other switches. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch has a clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, characterized by its crisp, bright, and percussive nature. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Hyacinth V2U linear switch is acclaimed for its polished and silky typing experience, offering a smooth and refined finish that enhances typing comfort. The switch provides a sleek and frictionless key travel, reducing resistance and promoting smooth keystrokes. In contrast, the HMX Swift linear switch is known for its easy-to-press and feathery feel, requiring minimal force for activation and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Swift switch also offers a bouncy and creamy sensation, providing a spring-like feedback and a buttery, smooth typing experience.
Taking into consideration the subjective qualities of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it is evident that they cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Hyacinth V2U offers a neutral and subdued sound with a polished and silky typing feel, appealing to those seeking a more traditional typing experience with modern enhancements. On the other hand, the HMX Swift provides a clacky sound profile with an easy-to-press and feathery feel, suitable for users looking for a snappy and low-impact typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing comfort.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you value a fuller travel distance with a bouncier feel and a softer sound profile, the Hyacinth V2U might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother typing experience with a lighter actuation force and a deeper sound profile, the HMX Swift could be more suitable. Consider your desired sound and feel characteristics, as well as the actuation force that best suits your typing style, to make the most informed decision. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your individual preferences and needs.
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