HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Outemu Yellow Silver both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Hyacinth V2U is a linear switch with a fuller travel distance of 3.9mm, providing a traditional typing experience with added bounciness thanks to its 22mm spring. Crafted from nylon, these switches produce a softer, bassier sound signature, appealing to those who enjoy a more subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver is also a linear switch but with a light actuation force and neutral sound profile, making it ideal for gamers and typists who prioritize speediness and responsiveness. While the Hyacinth V2U may appeal to those looking for a mix of old and new in their typing experience, the Yellow Silver is a solid choice for those seeking a reliable and efficient switch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these 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
55g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Outemu Yellow Silver are largely similar in terms of their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the overall design.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Hyacinth V2U features a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for its softer properties, which absorb more sound and create a duller, rounder sound compared to harder plastics. In contrast, the Yellow Silver also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel. This shared use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures consistent performance across these switches.
Overall, while both switches share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing, the differences in their bottom housing materials may lead to subtle variations in sound and typing experience. The split between the qualities of the top and bottom housing materials affects the overall sound and feel of the switches when keys are pressed and released. Ultimately, the choice between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Outemu Yellow Silver may come down to personal preference in typing feel and sound profile.
Weight
Both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, ensuring a consistent typing experience in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Hyacinth V2U is lighter at 52 grams compared to the Yellow Silver's 55 grams, making it slightly easier to press all the way down. This means that users who prefer a lighter feel and less fatigue during long typing sessions may lean towards the Hyacinth V2U, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Yellow Silver. In both cases, the actuation force being the same ensures that users will get similar results in terms of responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for typing feel and weight preferences.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, slightly shorter than the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, the Hyacinth V2U offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers looking for faster input may prefer the Hyacinth V2U, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may opt for the Yellow Silver. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Outemu Yellow Silver comes in at $3.40 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, both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches are classified as having a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various uses. However, the Hyacinth V2U offers a more subdued sound compared to the Yellow Silver, thanks to its nylon construction and softer, bassier sound signature. The Yellow Silver, on the other hand, provides a neutral sound with no additional descriptors provided, indicating a moderate sound profile that is ideal for a wide range of users. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as your keyboard and keycap choices.
As for the feel of the switches, the Hyacinth V2U is praised for its polished and silky typing experience, resulting in smooth and refined key travel. These attributes contribute to a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key presses and releases. Unfortunately, there is no specific information available regarding the feel of the Outemu Yellow Silver switch. However, given its light actuation force and suitability for gamers and typists looking for speediness and responsiveness, it can be inferred that the Yellow Silver switch likely offers a smooth and comfortable typing feel as well.
In conclusion, both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches have their own unique qualities that make them desirable choices for keyboard enthusiasts. While the Hyacinth V2U excels in providing a subdued sound signature and a polished, silky typing experience, the Yellow Silver offers a neutral sound profile and likely provides a smooth and comfortable key feel. Depending on your preferences and typing requirements, both switches are capable of delivering a satisfying typing experience. If you enjoy a fuller travel distance and a softer sound, the Hyacinth V2U would be a good choice, whereas the Yellow Silver may be more suitable for those who prioritize speediness and responsiveness. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will come down to personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience and sound profile. If you prefer a fuller travel distance with added bounciness and a softer sound signature, the Hyacinth V2U may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you favor a light actuation force and a more neutral sound profile, the Yellow Silver switch from Outemu could be more suitable, especially for gamers and typists looking for speediness and responsiveness. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose based on what best suits your typing style and preferences.
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