HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Gazzew U4Tx present intriguing options to consider. The Hyacinth V2U offers a fuller travel distance of 3.9mm, reminiscent of traditional typing experiences, and is enhanced with a 22mm spring for added bounciness. Crafted from nylon, these switches produce a softer, bassier sound, providing a blend of old and new elements. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx combines the best of both worlds with a refined sound profile that offers a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet topping out sound. It provides a sharp, satisfying tactile bump for a luxurious typing experience. While the Hyacinth V2U is characterized as 'Neutral', 'Polished', 'Silky', 'Subdued', the U4Tx is labeled as 'Bassy', 'Muted', 'Sharp'. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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 Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Gazzew U4Tx offer different sound profiles and characteristics. The Hyacinth V2U utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, providing a sharper and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the U4Tx features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, known for delivering a rich and deep sound due to its softness. While both materials aim to enhance the overall typing experience, the polycarbonate of the Hyacinth V2U caters to those seeking a brighter and more resonant sound, while the Gazzew blend of the U4Tx offers a deeper and fuller sound profile.
In terms of bottom housings, the housing materials continue to differentiate the two switches. The Hyacinth V2U utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the U4Tx employs its proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, known for delivering a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. While both housing materials bring unique sound characteristics to the switches, the softer nylon of the Hyacinth V2U absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the U4Tx's Gazzew blend with its rich and deep sound profile.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for switches plays a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of typing. While both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Gazzew U4Tx offer distinct sound profiles using different housing materials, they both aim to enhance the typing experience in their own ways. Whether it's the sharper, higher-pitched sound of polycarbonate in the Hyacinth V2U or the deep and rich sound of the Gazzew blend in the U4Tx, the housing materials contribute significantly to the overall performance and feel of these mechanical switches.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, we see that the Hyacinth V2U is lighter in terms of actuation force at 45 grams compared to the U4Tx which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the U4Tx is heavier at 62.5 grams compared to the Hyacinth V2U's 52 grams. This means that while the Hyacinth V2U provides a medium-light typing experience, the U4Tx offers a more substantial typing feel due to its heavier bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, the Hyacinth V2U would be the preferred choice, while those who prefer a more solid and substantial typing experience may opt for the U4Tx. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, but users can expect similar results in terms of overall performance.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, making it slightly longer than the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, making them ideal for quick and responsive typing or gaming. Gamers may prefer the Hyacinth V2U for its slightly longer travel distance, providing a bit more depth and feedback when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, those looking for a faster response time may opt for the U4Tx with its slightly shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key feel and typing experience.
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 U4Tx 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
In terms of sound, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of environments and preferences. The Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, on the other hand, provides a bassier and more muted sound experience, catering to those who enjoy a deeper and quieter typing sound. Both switches offer unique acoustic qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience, with the V2U focusing on a traditional yet softer sound, while the U4Tx delivers a refined and luxurious auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Hyacinth V2U linear switch is described as polished and silky, ensuring a smooth and sleek typing experience with reduced friction and enhanced smoothness. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch is characterized by its sharp tactile bump, offering a high feedback intensity that can be distinctly felt with each keypress. These contrasting tactile qualities provide users with options based on their preference for a smoother and refined typing experience with the V2U, or a more pronounced and tactile feedback with the U4Tx.
Overall, when considering the subjective qualities of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, it is evident that both switches offer unique sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences. The V2U provides a blend of traditional and modern typing experiences with its fuller travel distance and softer sound signature, while the U4Tx combines a cleaner sound profile with a sharp tactile bump for a luxurious typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and needs. If you prefer a fuller travel distance with a bouncy feel and a softer, bassier sound signature, the Hyacinth V2U may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you are looking for a cleaner, refined sound profile with a sharp, satisfying tactile bump, the Gazzew U4Tx could be the better choice for you. Both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so it's important to consider what type of typing experience you are looking for before making your decision. Ultimately, whether you go with the Hyacinth V2U or the U4Tx, you can expect a high-quality mechanical keyboard switch that will enhance your overall typing experience.