HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° are both linear switches with unique features that cater to different preferences. The Hyacinth V2U stands out for its fuller travel distance of 3.9mm, providing a traditional typing experience with a bouncy feel thanks to its 22mm spring. Made from nylon, these switches produce a softer, bassier sound signature, offering a blend of old-school and modern attributes. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° focuses on silent typing with its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, ensuring unmatched smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound and minimizes noise. Both switches have their strengths, but ultimately your choice will depend on your specific preferences and needs. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
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
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
Both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances resonance, resulting in a clear and distinct sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows for light to shine through the housing. This shared top housing material ensures that both switches offer similar sound qualities and aesthetic benefits, making them suitable choices for users looking for a specific sound profile and visual appeal.
In contrast, the bottom housing of the Hyacinth V2U is made of nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate top housing. Similarly, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° features a nylon bottom housing that elicits a similar deep and full sound profile. Despite the differences in housing materials between the top and bottom, both switches offer a balance of sound qualities that cater to different preferences, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel while the top housing affects the sound upon key release.
Overall, the choice between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° will ultimately come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing experience. While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing for sharp, clear sound, their use of nylon in the bottom housing provides distinct characteristics in terms of sound depth and texture. Whether you prefer a sharper, resonant sound profile with the Hyacinth V2U or a deeper, fuller sound experience with the Zero Degree 0°, both switches offer unique qualities that enhance the overall typing experience.
Weight
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch boasts an actuation force and bottom out force of 45 grams and 52 grams, respectively, providing users with a medium-light typing experience. In comparison, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch also has an actuation force of 45 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. Despite this, both switches offer a similar actuation force, meaning users can expect a comparable feel when triggering keystrokes. When considering weight, the Hyacinth V V2U may be considered lighter, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or extended gaming periods. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, the heavier force of the Hyacinth V2U may be more appealing. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Zero Degree 0° has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Hyacinth V2U. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for quicker response times. Choosing between the two would depend on personal preference - the shorter travel distance of the Zero Degree 0° may provide a faster feel, while the slightly longer travel distance of the Hyacinth V2U may offer a more substantial keypress. Ultimately, both switches aim to provide a responsive typing experience, catering to different user preferences.
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 Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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 comparing the sound of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switches, the V2U offers a more neutral and subdued sound profile due to its nylon construction and fuller travel distance. This results in a softer, bassier sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° boasts unparalleled smoothness and stability, with a design that absorbs sound and reduces noise, making it ideal for silent typing experiences. Depending on factors such as choice of board and keycaps, both switches can provide a satisfying sound experience, with the V2U offering a more traditional feel while the Zero Degree 0° provides a modern, quieter typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Hyacinth V2U is described as polished and silky, offering a smooth and refined finish that enhances the overall typing experience. With reduced friction and a sleek key travel, these switches provide a pleasant typing feel. On the other hand, the feel of the Zero Degree 0° linear switch is unknown. Both switches likely offer a smooth actuation due to being linear switches, providing a consistent and comfortable typing experience overall.
In conclusion, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switches each have unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The V2U offers a traditional typing experience with its fuller travel distance and softer sound signature, while the Zero Degree 0° excels in providing smoothness, stability, and reduced noise for a modern typing experience. Depending on personal preference and typing needs, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience, with the V2U offering a blend of old and new qualities, while the Zero Degree 0° focuses on innovation and silent typing capabilities.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a fuller travel distance and a softer, bassier sound signature, the Hyacinth V2U may be the better choice for you. The V2Us offer a unique blend of traditional typist nostalgia with modern innovations. On the other hand, if you value unparalleled smoothness, stability, and noise reduction, the innovative self-padding design of the Zero Degree 0° may be more appealing to you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound profile.
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