HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Gazzew U4T mechanical keyboard switches, it's evident that both offer unique features catering to different preferences. The Hyacinth V2U is a linear switch with a fuller travel distance of 3.9mm, bringing back a traditional typing experience with a bouncy feel due to its 22mm spring. Crafted from nylon, these switches offer a softer, bassier sound signature, appealing to those looking for a more subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T is a tactile switch that boasts a harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility. With a bassy thock sound profile and assertive tactile feedback, every keystroke provides both auditory and tactile satisfaction. While the V2Us are categorized as neutral, polished, silky, and subdued, the U4Ts are classified as bassy, thocky, and sharp. Both switches have their own strengths and qualities that may cater to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Gazzew U4T both have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Hyacinth V2U features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, perfect for those who enjoy a higher-pitched typing experience. In contrast, the U4T's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness, providing a different auditory experience. While the polycarbonate housing of the Hyacinth V2U is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting due to its translucency, the Gazzew blend top housing of the U4T offers a unique sound signature that may appeal to users looking for a deeper typing sound.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U utilizes a nylon bottom housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer plastic composition. This results in a duller and rounder sound that may be preferred by those seeking a quieter typing experience. Similarly, the U4T's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing also offers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness, providing users with a satisfying typing sound that complements the top housing material. Both switches offer a different tactile and auditory experience, allowing users to choose based on their preferences for sound and feel.
While the housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Gazzew U4T differ in terms of polycarbonate and proprietary plastic blends, both switches aim to create a unique typing experience through their distinctive sound profiles. The split between the bottom and top housing materials allows users to feel the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Whether you prefer the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate or the rich and deep sound of the Gazzew blend, both switches offer a customized typing experience that caters to individual preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Gazzew U4T tactile switch. The Hyacinth V2U requires 45 grams of force to actuate and 52 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-light switch. In contrast, the U4T has an unknown actuation force but a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as a medium-heavy switch. Some users may prefer the Hyacinth V2U for its lighter feel, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue, while others may gravitate towards the U4T for a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier force requirements. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and force feedback.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch is 3.9 mm, while the Gazzew U4T tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches are very close in terms of travel distance, with the Hyacinth V2U being slightly shorter. Typically, a difference of 0.1 mm may not be noticeable to most users, but some may prefer the slightly shorter travel distance for a quicker response time. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Gazzew U4T with its longer travel distance. Overall, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of travel distance, so users can expect comparable results with either option.
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 Gazzew U4T comes in at $6.50 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 is known for its neutral and subdued sound profile, offering a moderate and dampened sound during key presses. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch boasts a bassy and thocky sound, providing a deeper, richer, and more satisfying auditory experience. Depending on personal preference, the V2U delivers a quieter and more subtle typing experience compared to the U4T's more pronounced and tactile sound feedback.
Turning to the feel of these switches, the Hyacinth V2U offers a polished and silky typing experience, characterized by a smooth and refined finish that reduces friction and provides smooth key travel. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch is known for its sharp tactility, offering a strong and crisp tactile bump with each keypress. The V2U provides a luxurious and seamless typing feel, while the U4T delivers a more pronounced and intense tactile feedback for those who prefer a more tactile typing experience.
In summary, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The V2U provides a neutral and subdued sound with a polished and silky feel, perfect for those seeking a quieter and smoother typing experience. On the other hand, the U4T delivers a bassy and thocky sound with a sharp tactile feel, catering to individuals who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback during typing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a fuller travel distance and softer sound signature, the Hyacinth V2U may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility with a bassy 'thock' sound profile, the Gazzew U4T could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision should be based on whether you value a more traditional typing feel or a distinctive tactile feedback in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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