HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Durock White Lotus offer unique features catering to different preferences. The Hyacinth V2U is a linear switch that stands out for its fuller travel distance of 3.9mm, reminiscent of traditional typing experiences, and its 22mm spring that adds a layer of bounciness. Crafted from nylon, these switches produce a softer, bassier sound signature, appealing to those looking for a blend of old and new in their typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus is a tactile switch designed for the discerning typist, offering a delicate tactility that strikes the perfect balance between feedback and smoothness. With a removable light column for customizable RGB lighting effects, the White Lotus switches bring both functionality and aesthetics to the table. While the Hyacinth V2U is categorized as neutral, polished, silky, subdued, the White Lotus is described as easy-to-press, low-pitched, mild, neutral, subtle. Both switches have their unique advantages, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
56g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Durock White Lotus, it is evident that both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing is also beneficial for RGB lighting due to its translucency. However, the White Lotus features a modified PC & UPE Blend, which gives it a unique and premium feel compared to the Hyacinth V2U.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Hyacinth V2U and the White Lotus utilize nylon. Nylon as a housing material creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, which is attributed to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. With both switches opting for nylon in the bottom housing, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
When it comes to the overall typing experience, the differences in housing materials between the Hyacinth V2U and the White Lotus become more apparent. The qualities of the bottom housing play a significant role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. On the other hand, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when a key is released. By understanding how each housing material uniquely contributes to the typing experience, users can choose a switch that best suits their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch both fall under the medium-light category in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Hyacinth V2U has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the White Lotus' 46 grams, but the bottom out force is also lighter at 52 grams compared to the White Lotus' 56 grams. Both switches offer a relatively light typing experience, which may be preferred by those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. However, for those who enjoy a bit more resistance and a stronger push feel, they may lean towards options with heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Overall, while there are slight differences in force between the two switches, users can expect a similar typing experience from both in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, slightly shorter than the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. While the Hyacinth V2U provides a slightly shorter travel distance, offering a quicker response time that may be favored by gamers, the White Lotus offers a tad more depth in its travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key press feel. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, making them suitable options for different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a quicker response time or a more tactile 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 Durock White Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the White Lotus for $4.57.
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 offers a neutral and subdued sound profile, providing a moderate and dampened sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch gives off a low-pitched and neutral sound, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone suitable for various settings. Both switches offer a versatile sound experience that caters to different preferences and environments.
In terms of feel, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U provides a polished and silky typing experience, with smooth key travel and reduced friction for a refined feel. Meanwhile, the Durock White Lotus offers an easy-to-press and mild typing sensation, requiring minimal force to activate the keys and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The White Lotus also features a subtle resistance that maintains a light typing feel suitable for shared spaces. Both switches deliver a comfortable and responsive typing experience, tailored to different preferences in tactile feedback.
Overall, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch offer unique qualities in sound and feel that cater to varying preferences in typing experiences. While the Hyacinth V2U leans towards a fuller travel distance and softer sound signature, the White Lotus strikes a balance between delicate tactility and vibrant RGB lighting effects. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch or the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a fuller travel distance and a softer, bassier sound signature, the Hyacinth V2U might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a delicate tactility, vibrant RGB lighting effects, and a tranquil typing experience, the White Lotus switch could be more suitable. Keep in mind that the Hyacinth V2U offers a neutral sound profile and a polished, silky feel, while the White Lotus provides a low-pitched sound and an easy-to-press, mild, and subtle feel. Consider these factors when making your decision to ensure you select the switch that best fits your typing needs and preferences.
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