KTT Hyacinth vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2
An in-depth look at the KTT Hyacinth and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the KTT Hyacinth and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 mechanical keyboard switches, you're presented with options that cater to different preferences in tactile feedback and auditory experience. The KTT Hyacinth, a linear switch, offers a 3.5mm travel distance to prevent a harsh bottoming-out sensation, prioritizing a balance between tactile feedback, sound, and comfort. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 stands out for its long stem pole that produces a satisfying 'clack' sound with each keystroke, making it a favorite among enthusiasts seeking a deep auditory experience. While the KTT Hyacinth is characterized as 'Neutral', 'Silky', and 'Subtle', the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 is labeled as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', 'Polished', 'Silky', and 'Snappy'. 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
56g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 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 spring
Spring
Single-stage 22mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The KTT Hyacinth and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiff plastic that resonates sound well, giving a clear and distinct sound experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, as it allows the lighting to shine through. Both switches offer a similar sound profile and aesthetic appeal due to the shared use of polycarbonate in their top housing.
On the other hand, the Hyacinth features a nylon bottom housing, while the Hyacinth V2 also incorporates nylon in its bottom housing material. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to other plastics due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound and creates a rounder tone. This difference in bottom housing materials may slightly impact the overall sound and feel of the switches, with the bottom housing playing a larger role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key.
Despite the differences in bottom housing materials, both the KTT Hyacinth and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 offer a unique sound experience with their combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials. While the bottom housing may slightly influence the sound and feel of the switches, the overall effect is likely to be similar due to the shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing. Whether choosing the original Hyacinth or the V2 version, users can expect a high-quality sound profile and aesthetic appeal from both switches.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, there are notable similarities and differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. Both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, providing a light and responsive typing experience. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the KTT Hyacinth requires 56 grams, while the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 only needs 52 grams. This makes the Sillyworks switch slightly lighter in terms of bottom out force, which may appeal to those who prefer a softer feel while typing. Overall, both switches offer a medium-light actuation force, providing a good balance between typing comfort and responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. The consistency in travel distance between these two switches ensures that users will get similar results in terms of key feel and responsiveness. Overall, both switches offer a smooth and linear typing experience with a travel distance that is neither too short nor too long.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Hyacinth has an MSRP of $4.03 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hyacinth for $3.75.
The HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 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 V2 for $2.91.
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 KTT Hyacinth offers a neutral experience with a moderate sound profile suitable for various usage scenarios, making it versatile for both beginners and advanced users alike. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 provides a clacky sound, known for its sharp and snappy characteristics that deliver a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory feedback. The choice between these switches would depend on personal preference for sound, and it's essential to consider the impact of the keyboard case and keycaps on the overall sound produced.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the KTT Hyacinth is described as silky and subtle, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with a gentle resistance that enhances typing comfort. In contrast, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 is described as creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy, meaning it provides an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience with a buttery sensation and responsive feedback. The decision between these switches would come down to the specific typing feel desired by the user, whether it's a preference for a silky glide or a snappy response during typing sessions.
In conclusion, the KTT Hyacinth and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switches each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The KTT Hyacinth focuses on a neutral sound profile and a silky, subtle typing experience, while the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 stands out for its clacky sound and creamy, frictionless, polished, and snappy feel. Depending on whether the user values a more versatile sound profile or a specific tactile sensation, either switch could provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, trying out sample switches or consulting with experienced users may help in determining which switch aligns best with individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a slightly higher bottom out force of 56 grams and a design focused on tactile feedback and user comfort, the KTT Hyacinth may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lower bottom out force of 52 grams and a switch that offers a distinctive deep 'clack' sound with a seamless blend of sound and performance, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 could be the ideal option for you. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so consider what aspects are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch before making your decision.
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