HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U vs. HMX Twilight

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the HMX Twilight both exemplify the delightful nuances of linear switch design, offering distinct attributes that cater to different typing preferences. The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U stands out with a travel distance of 3.9mm, reminiscent of traditional typing experiences, and is enhanced by a 22mm spring, which provides a satisfying bounciness. Its nylon construction produces a softer, bassier sound, ideal for users seeking a subdued auditory experience while typing. In contrast, the HMX Twilight boasts a slightly shorter 3.85mm travel, delivering quieter keystrokes while still retaining the clacky tone that aficionados of HMX switches appreciate. While both switches offer smooth typing experiences typical of linear switches, the Hyacinth V2U leans towards a more pronounced and nostalgic feel, whereas the Twilight prioritizes a balance of quietness and responsiveness. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U Linear

HMX Twilight Linear

$3.50

$2.91 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the HMX Twilight, significant differences arise particularly in the choice of top materials. The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to its sharp and crisp sound profile. This material's rigidity helps in producing a high-pitched tone, making it ideal for users seeking clarity and resonance in their typing experience, particularly when using RGB lighting due to its translucence. In contrast, the HMX Twilight features a nylon top housing, known for its ability to create a deeper, fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder and less pronounced auditory feedback. Thus, while the Hyacinth V2U excels in clarity, the Twilight offers a more subdued and warm acoustic experience.

Interestingly, both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the HMX Twilight share the same nylon material for their bottom housings. This choice means that both switches will deliver a similar deep and full sound profile during key presses, as nylon's sound-absorbing qualities play a critical role in shaping the overall acoustic output. When typing on either switch, users can expect the rounded sound characteristics inherent to nylon to influence the bottom-out sound, creating a satisfying typing experience regardless of the differences found in their respective top housings. Hence, while the top housings differ significantly in composition and resulting sound profiles, the bottom housings unify the two designs.

Overall, the differentiation in housing materials between the two switches directly influences the user's typing experience. With the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U's polycarbonate top housing delivering a crisp and clear sound, coupled with a nylon bottom housing that provides a fuller tone, it offers a balance of both brightness and depth. Conversely, the HMX Twilight, through its nylon top housing's softer sound profile, contrasts with its own nylon bottom to create a cohesive yet more muted auditory experience. Thus, both switches allow users to appreciate the unique effects of their materials while still delivering fundamental sound characteristics reminiscent of nylon, ensuring a satisfying typing experience across both models.

Weight

The HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch differ in both actuation and bottom out forces, catering to varying preferences in typing experience. The Hyacinth V2U has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it medium-light in terms of overall feel. In comparison, the Twilight switch features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, representing a softer typing experience. This means that users who favor a lighter touch will benefit from the Twilight, especially in long typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Hyacinth V2U, while still relatively light, may especially appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback due to its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Overall, while both switches allow for comfortable typing, the Hyacinth V2U is the heavier option, leading to stronger resistance, whereas the Twilight is lighter and better suited for extended use without fatigue.

Travel distance

The HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch features a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the HMX Twilight linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.85 mm. This means that the Hyacinth V2U provides a bit more depth during key presses, which may appeal to users who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback. In contrast, the Twilight's shorter travel distance may be preferable for gamers seeking quicker actuation and responsiveness, reflecting a growing trend towards shorter distances in modern switch design. Ultimately, while both switches are close in their specifications, the Hyacinth V2U offers a longer travel distance, making it the better choice for those who value a more substantial key press experience. Conversely, the Twilight caters to those who prioritize speed.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound characteristics of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch lean towards a softer, bassier profile, thanks to its nylon construction, which contributes to a more subdued auditory experience. This switch maintains a balance between traditional and modern typing sounds, making it versatile for various environments, whether at home or in a quiet office setting. On the other hand, while the HMX Twilight linear switch boasts a slightly quieter sound due to its extended travel distance of 3.85mm, it is designed to retain the clacky traits commonly associated with HMX switches, although specific descriptors for its sound profile were not provided. Thus, while both switches present unique sound profiles, the Hyacinth tends to be more subdued and warm, while the Twilight might still carry a hint of clackiness despite being quieter.

In terms of feel, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U truly shines with its polished and silky characteristics. The smooth and refined finish allows for a sleek typing experience, complemented by reduced friction for effortless actuation. This smoothness significantly enhances responsiveness and reduces resistance during key presses, making it a delight for typists who appreciate a fluid motion. The feel of the Twilight switch, however, remains unknown, leaving a gap in direct comparison. If the Twilight switch resonates similarly with quality construction as the Hyacinth, one might expect a comparable smoothness, but without specific descriptors, it’s difficult to draw firm conclusions.

In summary, both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the HMX Twilight linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Hyacinth V2U provides a fuller travel distance with a subdued and warmer sound, complemented by an exceptionally smooth typing feel. While the Twilight features a slightly shorter travel distance and a quieter profile, specifics on its sound and feel are not fully fleshed out. Ultimately, users choosing between these two will likely find satisfaction in either switch, especially if they appreciate the distinctive features of the Hyacinth while remaining open to exploring the less-defined traits of the Twilight.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the HMX Twilight linear switch will largely depend on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you favor a typing experience that offers good feedback, a more substantial bottom-out force, and a traditional feel, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U is likely the better option for you. With its fuller travel distance and bouncier spring, this switch is designed to provide a polished and silky typing experience, making it ideal for both work and casual use, especially if you appreciate a moderately subdued sound profile that can blend into both quiet and bustling environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a slightly reduced travel distance, the HMX Twilight switch could be more to your liking. Its light bottom-out force enhances rapid typing, making it well-suited for fast-paced tasks or gaming, while still maintaining a tight and pleasant sound signature. In essence, consider how each switch’s unique characteristics align with your typing style and environment to determine which one will best enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U Linear

$3.50

$2.91 per 10

Learn more

HMX Twilight Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more