HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Haimu Viola Tricolor stand out as notable options to explore. The Hyacinth V2U is a linear switch that boasts a fuller travel distance of 3.9mm, reminiscent of traditional typing experiences, and features a 22mm spring for added bounciness. Crafted from nylon, these switches produce a softer, bassier sound signature, offering a blend of old-world charm and modern functionality. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor by Haimu is a tactile switch designed to provide a thuddy and punchy sound profile that injects personality into your typing. With pronounced tactility that strikes a perfect balance between feedback and comfort, these switches offer a satisfying experience without being overly tactile. Each switch has its own unique characteristics and benefits, making them suitable choices for different preferences and typing styles. 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
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
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
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Haimu Viola Tricolor both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is useful for RGB lighting effects. However, the difference between the two lies in their bottom housings. The Hyacinth V2U's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor also has a nylon bottom housing, providing similar qualities in terms of sound but with a different aesthetic design.
While both switches share the qualities of the polycarbonate top housings, the divergence in their bottom housings results in subtle differences in sound and feel. The Hyacinth V2U's nylon bottom housing gives a duller and rounder sound when typing, emphasizing a deeper sound profile. In contrast, the Viola Tricolor's nylon bottom housing also elicits a deeper and fuller sound, showcasing the impact of the housing material on the overall typing experience. Both switches highlight the importance of housing materials in creating a unique sound profile that can enhance the typing experience for users.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical keyboards plays a significant role in determining the sound and feel of typing. While both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Haimu Viola Tricolor share similar polycarbonate top housings for a sharper sound profile, their differing nylon bottom housings offer distinct acoustic characteristics. The split between the top and bottom housings allows for a nuanced typing experience, where the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound upon key release. Ultimately, the selection of housing materials in mechanical keyboards can greatly impact the overall typing experience for users looking for a specific sound profile.
Weight
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Viola Tricolor is heavier at 63.5 grams, while the Hyacinth V2U has a bottom out force of 52 grams. The Hyacinth V2U provides a medium-light typing experience with a lighter actuation force, whereas the Viola Tricolor offers a medium-heavy feel with a heavier bottom out force. If you prefer a lighter typing experience for long periods, the Hyacinth V2U may be the better option, while those who enjoy a stronger push feel may lean towards the Viola Tricolor. Ultimately, both switches offer different typing experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch have a very close travel distance, with the Hyacinth V2U measuring at 3.9 mm and the Viola Tricolor at 3.8 mm. Both switches provide a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, making them more suitable for users looking for quicker response times. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance for faster reactions, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the switch with the longer travel distance. Overall, the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, so users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and responsiveness.
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 Haimu Viola Tricolor has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Viola Tricolor for $3.09.
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 neutral and subdued sound profile, providing a moderate actuation force requirement and a dampened sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch delivers a bassy and low-pitched sound, emphasizing a deeper and richer tone during key presses. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that can enhance the typing experience, depending on the user's preferences and the surrounding environment.
When it comes to feel, the Hyacinth V2U linear switch is known for its polished and silky typing experience, featuring a smooth and refined finish that reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel. In contrast, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch is described as accented and invigorating, providing a medium level of tactility without being overwhelming, as well as offering pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive feel. Both switches cater to different typing preferences, whether one prefers a smoother typing feel or a more tactile feedback during use.
Overall, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch present unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the V2U offers a blend of traditional and modern typing experiences with a neutral sound profile and polished feel, the Viola Tricolor stands out with its thuddy sound and accented feel that strikes a perfect balance between tactility and smoothness. Choosing between these switches will ultimately depend on personal preferences, typing style, and the desired overall typing experience that each user aims to achieve.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch versus the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, you should choose the Hyacinth V2U if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force, a fuller travel distance, and a softer, bassier sound signature. These switches offer a neutral or subdued sound profile, making them suitable for a variety of typing environments. On the other hand, you should opt for the Viola Tricolor if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, a thuddy and punchy sound profile, and a pronounced tactile feedback. These switches strike a balance between tactility and smoothness, providing an invigorating typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on your specific preferences for typing feel and sound profile.
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