HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the TKC Tangerine mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Hyacinth V2U stands out for its fuller travel distance of 3.9mm, providing a more traditional typing experience with added bounciness from its 22mm spring. Crafted from nylon, these switches produce a softer, bassier sound, appealing to those who appreciate a blend of old and new. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine boasts an incredibly smooth feel thanks to the UHWMPE housings, offering a frictionless and buttery typing experience. While the Hyacinth V2U is categorized as neutral, polished, silky, and subdued, the Tangerine is characterized as frictionless, buttery, high-pitched, and polished. Each switch has its own unique strengths, but diving deeper into their specific qualities will help you make the best choice for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the TKC Tangerine, we see that both switches utilize unique materials for their top housings. The Hyacinth V2U features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Tangerine opts for a UHWMPE top housing, which offers a very bright sound signature with resonant clacks when typing. While both materials contribute to a clear and crisp sound profile, the polycarbonate of the Hyacinth V2U may provide a different tone compared to the UHWMPE of the Tangerine.
When it comes to the bottom housings of these switches, we again see a contrast in materials. The Hyacinth V2U utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Conversely, the Tangerine features a UHWMPE bottom housing, which also provides a bright sound signature with resonant clacks when typing. While both materials offer distinct sound profiles, the nylon of the Hyacinth V2U may create a duller and rounder sound compared to the UHWMPE of the Tangerine.
Overall, the combination of different housing materials for the top and bottom of a switch can greatly impact the overall typing experience. While the polycarbonate top housing of the Hyacinth V2U may create a sharper sound upon key release, the nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound upon bottoming out. In contrast, the UHWMPE top and bottom housings of the Tangerine offer a bright and resonant sound profile for both key press and release. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch with the TKC Tangerine linear switch, it is evident that the Hyacinth V2U is lighter in terms of actuation force at 45 grams compared to the Tangerine, which does not have a specified actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Tangerine is heavier at 62 grams, while the Hyacinth V2U has a bottom out force of 52 grams. This means that the Tangerine provides a more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force, while the Hyacinth V2U offers a slightly lighter touch. Despite the differences in force, both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation and bottoming out, catering to users who prefer varying levels of force in their keystrokes. Depending on personal preference, some may opt for the lighter Hyacinth V2U for longer typing or gaming sessions, while others may prefer the heavier Tangerine for a more robust typing feel.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, slightly shorter than the TKC Tangerine linear switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. While the difference between the two distances may seem minimal, it can have an impact on the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Hyacinth V2U with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing may lean towards the Tangerine with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their travel distances, catering to varying preferences and needs.
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 TKC Tangerine comes in at $6.30 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 Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U offers a neutral and subdued sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of typing environments. The Tangerine, on the other hand, produces a high-pitched sound that gives a sharp and crisp typing experience. Depending on personal preference, the Hyacinth V2U may be more appealing for those seeking a softer and more traditional sound, while the Tangerine may be preferred by those who enjoy a more vibrant and pronounced sound with each keystroke.
When it comes to feel, the Sillyworks Hyacith V2U is described as offering a polished and silky typing experience, providing smooth key travel and reduced friction. In comparison, the TKC Tangerine is known for its frictionless and buttery feel, offering an effortless and fluid typing sensation. Both switches aim to provide a premium typing experience with minimal resistance and a high level of smoothness, catering to users who prioritize comfort and ease of typing.
Overall, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the TKC Tangerine linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Hyacinth V2U leans towards a more traditional typing experience with a softer sound and a polished, silky feel, while the Tangerine excels in providing a high-pitched sound and a frictionless, buttery typing sensation. Depending on personal preference and typing style, users can choose between these switches to enhance their mechanical keyboard setup and enjoy a customized typing experience. Ultimately, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience with their distinct qualities, ensuring that users can find a switch that aligns with their preferences and needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a fuller travel distance, a softer sound signature, and a neutral or subdued sound profile, then the Hyacinth V2U may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize an incredibly smooth feel, a high-pitched sound profile, and a frictionless or buttery typing experience, then the TKC Tangerine may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience, so choose based on what matters most to you.
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