HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U vs. TTC Yunhai
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the TTC Yunhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between options that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U, characterized by its fuller travel distance of 3.9mm and a 22mm spring, offers a nostalgic typing experience reminiscent of traditional keyboards. Its nylon construction results in a softer, bassier sound signature, which falls under the categories of 'Neutral,' 'Polished,' 'Silky,' and 'Subdued.' In contrast, the TTC Yunhai switches are designed for those who value a lightweight typing experience, featuring a notably low actuation force that allows for effortless keystrokes. The Yunhai's deep and rounded sound profile targets typists seeking a gentle yet satisfying feel with each press. While the Hyacinth V2U caters to users who appreciate a more robust and tactile experience, the Yunhai excels for those preferring a smoother and lighter touch. However, let's dive in 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
42g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the TTC Yunhai switches utilize distinct materials for their top housings, which significantly influences their acoustic characteristics. The Hyacinth V2U features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. This stiffness allows for a clearer resonance, making it particularly suited for setups that employ RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the aesthetic appeal of illuminated keys. Conversely, the Yunhai employs a nylon top housing, which lends a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer structure. Nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder audio experience, which contrasts sharply with the clarity provided by polycarbonate. Thus, the choice of top housing between these two switches leads to distinctly different auditory results when typing.
When examining the bottom housings, both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the TTC Yunhai employ nylon material, which effectively creates a more similar acoustic experience in this regard. The nylon bottom allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile that resonates similarly in both switches, as the material absorbs sound rather than reflecting it. This shared bottom housing material means that, regardless of the differences in their top housings, users will enjoy the emitted sound’s warmer, rounder characteristics when bottoming out on either switch. This continuity in bottom housing materials ensures that both switches deliver a satisfying tactile experience, emphasizing a smooth feel when the key is fully depressed.
Overall, the contrasting materials used for the top housing of the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the TTC Yunhai underline the significant impact that housing materials can have on a switch’s acoustic performance. The crisper, sharper sound produced by polycarbonate in the Hyacinth V2U stands in stark opposition to the deep and rounded audio profile of the Yunhai's nylon top housing. However, the uniform use of nylon in both switches’ bottom housings balances this contrast, allowing for a shared auditory foundation that highlights the tactile sensations of each. Ultimately, whether one prefers the clearer tones of polycarbonate or the richer sounds of nylon, both switches provide unique yet complementary experiences based on their housing compositions.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch with the TTC Yunhai linear switch, we find that both switches cater to different preferences regarding typing feel and force exerted. The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, placing it in the medium-light category. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai features a slightly lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a better choice for those who favor a lighter touch and extended typing sessions. While both switches provide a smooth linear experience, the differences in their actuation and bottom out forces suggest that typists who prefer a more substantial feel will lean towards the Hyacinth, whereas those looking for a softer, quicker response will find the Yunhai more to their liking. Ultimately, if you're seeking a lighter switch with a comfortable feel, the Yunhai is the way to go, while the Hyacinth is suitable for users desiring a firmer touch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, we see a clear distinction: the Hyacinth V2U has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Yunhai features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference means that the Hyacinth offers a deeper feel, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial keypress experience. On the other hand, the Yunhai's shorter travel distance may be advantageous for gamers or users looking for quicker response times, as the reduced distance can facilitate faster actuation. Thus, if one leans towards a more responsive feel, the TTC Yunhai is the better choice. Conversely, those who appreciate a deeper keystroke may find the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U more satisfying.
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 Yunhai has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yunhai for $5.99.
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 presents a nuanced auditory experience. It features a fuller sound signature that is both neutral and subdued, striking a balance that is suitable for various environments, be it home or office. The nylon construction contributes to its softer, bassier tones, ensuring that while it is audible, the sound remains more refined and less intrusive compared to louder mechanical switches. On the other hand, the TTC Yunhai switches lack detailed sound descriptors, leaving an unknown quality in this area that may suggest a more standard or unremarkable sound profile without the distinct characteristics provided by the Hyacinth V2U.
In terms of feel, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U excels with its polished and silky characteristics. This means users can expect a remarkably smooth typing experience, enhanced by meticulous manufacturing processes and possibly factory lubing. The use of a 22mm spring adds a layer of responsiveness, making typing not only fluid but also engaging. In stark contrast, the TTC Yunhai switches offer minimal information regarding their tactile feel, leaving their characteristics largely unexplored. This absence might imply that while they are lightweight with a gentle actuation force, their overall typing experience could vary without the refined qualities enjoyed in the Hyacinth V2U switches.
In conclusion, while the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch shines with its superior sound and feel qualities, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a refined typing experience, the TTC Yunhai linear switch remains an enigma in these respects. The known advantages of the Hyacinth V2U might fulfill the needs of users looking for comfort and a pleasant auditory experience, while the Yunhai’s unspecified traits leave potential users to speculate about their performance. Ultimately, those choosing between the two will find that the Sillyworks offering provides a more assured and nuanced choice in the mechanical keyboard landscape.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, it's essential to consider your typing preferences and the environments in which you plan to use them. If you appreciate a more traditional typing experience with a fuller travel distance, moderate bottom-out force, and a classic yet enhanced sound profile, the Hyacinth V2U might be the right choice for you. Its polished and silky feel enhances the smoothness of each keystroke, making it ideal for longer typing sessions, whether for work or leisure. On the other hand, if you prefer the lightest touch possible for a gentle and effortless experience, especially for tasks that require rapid typing, the Yunhai linear switch is an excellent option. Its ultra-light actuation makes it perfect for typists who enjoy a feather-like feel, ideal for speed and comfort during extended use. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you favor a classic and refined typing experience or a more effortless and lighter touch, allowing you to tailor your keyboard setup to your specific preferences and usage scenarios.
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