HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U vs. TTC Venus
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the TTC Venus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the TTC Venus both stand out in their own right. The Hyacinth V2U offers a fuller travel distance of 3.9mm, providing a nod to traditional typing experiences with a bouncy 22mm spring and a softer, bassier sound signature crafted from nylon. On the other hand, the TTC Venus boasts a unique internal configuration that delivers a seamless glide and a captivating Q-texture for a smooth and engaging typing experience with very light actuation. The Hyacinth V2U is categorized as neutral, polished, silky, subdued, while the Venus is categorized as buttery, gummy, frictionless, low-pitched, mild, muted, neutral, polished, subdued, thocky. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Lengthened 20.5mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the TTC Venus, one noticeable difference lies in the top housing material. The Hyacinth V2U features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known to produce a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Venus utilizes a POM top housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound. This contrast in sound profiles can greatly impact the overall typing experience for users of these switches, with the Hyacinth V2U providing a crisper sound and the TTC Venus offering a more subdued tone.
On the other hand, the bottom housing materials of the Hyacinth V2U and Venus also differ, with the former incorporating a nylon bottom housing and the latter utilizing a polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound due to its softness and sound-absorbing properties, while polycarbonate offers a clearer and more resonant sound profile. This contrast in sound characteristics between the bottom housings of the two switches can affect the overall typing sound and feel, providing users with a variety of options to choose from based on their preferences for sound profile.
In cases where the top and bottom housings of a switch are different, such as in the Hyacinth V2U and Venus, the qualities of each housing material are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This division of sound profiles between the top and bottom housings allows users to experience a range of sound characteristics in their typing experience, providing versatility and customization options based on personal preference.
Weight
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the TTC Venus linear switches both have a similar actuation force of 45 grams and bottom out force of 52 grams, making them both fall into the medium-light category. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience with a relatively light touch required for each keystroke. This light actuation force is ideal for users who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. However, those looking for a more substantial typing experience may prefer a switch with a heavier actuation force. Overall, both the Hyacinth V2U and TTC Venus switches offer a comfortable typing experience with a balance of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch is 3.9 mm, while the TTC Venus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm standard. The 0.1 mm difference may not be noticeable to most users, but for those seeking the absolute fastest response time, the Venus switch may be slightly quicker. Gamers or fast typists might prefer the Venus switch for its slightly shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2U offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes. In general, both switches offer similar performance due to their close travel distances, but the slight difference may cater to different preferences among users.
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 TTC Venus has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Venus for $5.09.
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 wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the TTC Venus linear switch presents a low-pitched and muted sound, providing a more bass-heavy and quieter typing experience. Both switches aim to minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, offering a more subtle and refined auditory experience.
Moving on to feel, the Hyacinth V2U switch is described as polished and silky, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the TTC Venus switch provides a buttery and gummy sensation, with a seamless and effortless keystroke experience that feels like bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. Additionally, the Venus switch boasts a frictionless travel, ensuring a fluid and friction-free typing sensation. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable and engaging typing experience, with different tactile qualities to suit various preferences.
In conclusion, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and TTC Venus linear switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the V2U switch provides a more neutral and subdued sound along with a polished and silky typing experience, the Venus switch offers a low-pitched and muted sound with a buttery and gummy sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference, with both options delivering a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, consider the following: if you prioritize a fuller travel distance and a softer, bassier sound signature, the Hyacinth V2U may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a unique "matte" sensation with a seamless glide and a captivating "Q-texture," coupled with very light actuation and a muted sound signature, the TTC Venus could be the switch that meets your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a switch that combines traditional typing experiences with modern features or one that offers a distinct typing sensation with an engaging feel. Consider your typing preferences and desired sound and feel characteristics when choosing between these two switches.
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