HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch for your typing experience, the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) offer distinct advantages that cater to different preferences. The Hyacinth V2U distinguishes itself with a fuller travel distance of 3.9mm, reminiscent of traditional typing styles, which appeals to those who appreciate a more classic feel. Enhanced with a 22mm spring, these switches provide a delightful bounce, while their nylon composition delivers a softer and bassier sound profile, making them an attractive option for users looking for a neutral and polished touch. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) showcases its super smooth typing experience, attributed to its Ly stems, ideal for those who prioritize seamless keystrokes. Additionally, the Tomcat presents a resonant sound profile that can enhance feedback during use, appealing to tactile enthusiasts. Both switches cater to unique typing preferences, making them standout choices in their category. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
64g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.95 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
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Extended spring
Housing materials
The HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) share notable similarities in their housing materials, both utilizing polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. The choice of polycarbonate in both switches offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, which enhances resonance and clarity. This shared attribute means that both switches will likely produce a similar sound signature, making them particularly appealing to users who prioritize a bright auditory feedback in their typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for effective RGB lighting display, ensuring that both switches are visually striking when illuminated.
In contrast, the nylon used in the bottom housing of both switches introduces a different sound characteristic, contributing to a deeper and fuller acoustic profile. Nylon is recognized for its ability to absorb sound waves, resulting in a rounder and more muted sound when compared to the top housing polycarbonate. This characteristic is consistent between the two switches, as both utilize nylon in the same way, which means user experience in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel will resonate similarly. The dual material composition in both the Hyacinth V2U and Tomcat (Heavy) creates a balanced auditory experience by merging the crispness of polycarbonate with the warmth of nylon.
Ultimately, while both switches employ the same materials and consequently share specific sound attributes, the overall tactile and auditory experience can differ depending on design nuances. The top housing primarily influences the sound and feel of the release, while the bottom housing impacts the typing sensation and bottom-out sound. Therefore, while users can expect a comparable auditory profile when engaging with each switch, the interplay of the two materials can create a unique characteristic in how each switch feels during usage, making their performance both similar and distinctive in the hands of a user.
Weight
The HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch present contrasting characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Hyacinth V2U features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) requires a stronger actuation force of 55 grams and has a bottom out force of 64 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy range. This means that the Hyacinth V2U is the lighter switch, making it more suitable for users who prioritize long typing sessions without fatigue. Conversely, the Tomcat (Heavy) offers a heftier push feel, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, users seeking a lighter option for longer periods of use may favor the Hyacinth V2U, while those desiring a stronger tactile feedback should consider the Tomcat (Heavy).
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, the Hyacinth V2U features a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Tomcat (Heavy) measures slightly shorter at 3.6 mm. This difference in travel distance may cater to different preferences among users; the Hyacinth V2U provides a deeper feel for those who enjoy a more substantial keypress, while the Tomcat (Heavy) offers a shorter distance that may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times. If a user is looking for a more responsive experience, the Bsun Tomcat might be the preferable choice due to its reduced travel distance. However, for individuals who appreciate the tactile feedback of a more profound key actuation, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U would be the better fit. In essence, the choice between these two switches highlights the balance between the tactile depth desired in a keystroke and the rapid responsiveness favored by many gamers.
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 Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) comes in at $2.99 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
When it comes to sound, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch offers a somewhat neutral and subdued audio profile. This switch produces a moderate sound, making it versatile for various environments, whether you're a beginner or an experienced user, and suitable for both home and office settings. The subdued sound allows for a less intrusive typing experience, which can be an advantage in quieter environments. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switch is noted to have a resonant sound profile, though specific details about its sound characteristics are not provided. This indicates that while the Sillyworks switch leans towards a more understated sound, the Tomcat may engage with a more pronounced resonance, which could make it more vibrant in audio.
In terms of feel, the Hyacinth V2U is celebrated for its polished and silky typing experience, resulting from refined materials and potentially factory lubrication. This leads to reduced friction and a highly smooth key travel, allowing for an enjoyable and effortless typing rhythm. Unfortunately, there is no specific information about the feel of the Tomcat (Heavy) switch, leaving a gap in comparison. However, given its emphasis on a super smooth experience due to its Ly stems, it is likely that it also provides an enjoyable tactile experience, potentially allowing users to enjoy similar smoothness that matches the Hyacinth V2U.
In summary, both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switches cater to users seeking a smooth typing experience, but they manifest differently in sound and feel. The Hyacinth V2U combines a more subdued and neutral acoustic profile with an exceptionally polished and silky touch, making it suitable for varied typing environments. Meanwhile, the Tomcat’s resonant auditory signature and its reputedly smooth action suggest a distinct character that may appeal depending on personal preference. In essence, both switches can deliver satisfying results in their own right, but the Sillyworks switch offers more specific characteristics that may align with traditional typing preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch largely depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you favor a lighter bottom-out force for longer typing sessions, or if you appreciate a more traditional typing feel with a fuller travel distance, the Hyacinth V2U is likely the better choice for you. Its medium-light feel, bounciness from the 22mm spring, and subdued yet neutral sound make it ideal for both beginners and seasoned typists, whether you're gaming, working, or simply enjoying the tactile experience of a mechanical keyboard. On the other hand, if you prefer a firmer, more significant tactile feedback with a heavier actuation force, and you require a switch that offers a super smooth typing experience, the Tomcat (Heavy) would be your go-to option. Its design contributes to a resonant sound profile that may enhance your overall typing experience, especially if you enjoy a more robust feedback while typing. Ultimately, your decision should align with your personal comfort and typing style, ensuring you choose the switch that best enhances your mechanical keyboard experience.
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