HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the PH Studio Yoel both offer unique and compelling features. The Hyacinth V2U stands out for its fuller travel distance of 3.9mm, reminiscent of traditional typing experiences, with the added bonus of a bouncy feel thanks to its 22mm spring. Crafted from nylon, these switches provide a softer, bassier sound signature, blending the old and the new seamlessly. On the other hand, the Yoel from PH Studio, a linear switch manufactured by BSUN, offers a chewy typing experience that envelops fingertips with every press. It is characterized by a bright and clacky profile, producing a satisfying resonance when keys bottom out. While the Hyacinth V2U is described as neutral, polished, silky, and subdued, the Yoel is labeled as clacky, creamy, high-pitched, marbly, polished, silky, and resonant. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and appeal, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the PH Studio Yoel feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. This similarity in housing material ensures that both switches deliver a clear and resonant sound profile, making them a popular choice among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for a satisfying typing experience.
However, where the two switches diverge is in their bottom housing materials. The Hyacinth V2U utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Yoel features a POM bottom housing, which creates a unique and pleasing sound profile that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. This difference in bottom housing material gives each switch its own distinct sound and feel, catering to different preferences among keyboard users.
Despite their differences in bottom housing material, the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall sound profile and typing experience of the switches cannot be understated. While the qualities of the bottom housing material are felt more during key presses and bottom-out sounds, the top housing material plays a significant role in the sound when releasing a key. This nuanced combination of housing materials in the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the PH Studio Yoel ensures that each switch offers a unique and customizable typing experience for users seeking specific sound profiles and tactile feedback.
Weight
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a slightly lighter bottom out force of 52 grams compared to the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, which has an actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. Both switches fall within the medium-light to medium range in terms of force required, with the Hyacinth being slightly lighter overall. For those who prefer a lighter touch and a more extended typing experience, the Hyacinth may be the preferred choice. However, for individuals who desire a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Yoel may provide a more satisfying option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. In this case, the Yoel switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Hyacinth V2U. The difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the typing or gaming experience for some users. The shorter travel distance of the Yoel switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the slightly longer travel distance of the Hyacinth V2U may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for those who prefer a bit more depth in their key presses. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
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 PH Studio Yoel has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yoel for $4.10.
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 offers a subdued and neutral sound profile, providing a more subtle and moderate auditory experience suitable for various settings. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch gives off a clacky, high-pitched, and resonant sound that is sharp, bright, and immersive. The Hyacinth V2U's bassier sound signature contrasts with the Yoel's crisper and more pronounced sound, catering to different preferences in sound profiles.
Moving on to feel, the Hyacinth V2U is described as having a polished and silky typing experience, ensuring smooth key travel and reduced friction for a refined feel. Similarly, the PH Studio Yoel switch offers a creamy, polished, and silky feel, providing a buttery sensation with effortless keystrokes and minimal resistance. Both switches prioritize smoothness in typing, enhancing the overall typing experience for users.
In conclusion, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and PH Studio Yoel linear switches offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The Hyacinth V2U merges tradition and modernity with its softer, bassier sound and polished, silky feel, while the Yoel excels in delivering a bright, clacky sound and creamy, smooth typing experience. Whether you prefer a neutral and subdued sound with a polished feel or a clacky and resonant sound with a creamy sensation, both switches provide unique characteristics to enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a traditional typing feel, a softer sound profile, and a medium-light bottom out force, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch would be a great option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile and resonant typing experience with a slightly higher bottom out force, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch may be more to your liking. Consider your preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force when deciding between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences and styles.
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