Dareu Aqua vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2

Overview

Both the Dareu Aqua and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 are linear mechanical keyboard switches known for their unique characteristics. The Aqua, with its super light 37g actuation force, offers a chirpy and clacky sound signature that appeals to those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2 features a long stem pole that ensures a crisp top-out sound with a deep 'clack', providing a satisfying auditory experience for enthusiasts seeking depth in sound feedback. While the Aqua is known for being easy-to-press and feathery, the Hyacinth V2 stands out for its creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy attributes. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Dareu Aqua Linear

HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 Linear

$6.59

$3.76 per 10

$2.91 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Dareu Aqua and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 both feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound output. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an excellent choice for switches that utilize RGB lighting. In terms of sound quality, users can expect similar results from both switches when it comes to the top housing material.

In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Dareu Aqua and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 utilize nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing due to its softer composition that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, which may appeal to users looking for a more muted typing experience. The similarities in the bottom housing material between the two switches suggest that users can expect comparable typing experiences in terms of sound and feel.

While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, the differences lie in the bottom housings. The Dareu Aqua's nylon bottom housing will contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, while the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2's nylon bottom housing will offer a similar typing experience. The split between the top and bottom housing qualities means that users will feel the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will have more influence on the sound when releasing a key. Overall, both switches offer a unique combination of materials that cater to different preferences in sound and typing feel.

Weight

The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2's 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Aqua's force is unknown while the Hyacinth V2 requires 52 grams, which is considered medium-light. The difference in actuation force means that the Aqua switch may feel a bit easier to type on for longer periods, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. In contrast, the Hyacinth V2 offers a slightly heavier push, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer that feel. Both switches offer a unique typing experience based on their force requirements, allowing users to choose based on their preferences for typing feel and overall typing experience.

Travel distance

The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Hyacinth V2 has a shorter travel distance compared to the Aqua. The Aqua with its longer travel distance may provide a more tactile typing experience, whereas the Hyacinth V2 with its shorter travel distance may be preferred by those looking for a quicker response time, especially in gaming scenarios. Both switches offer different tactile feels due to their varying travel distances, so it ultimately depends on personal preference which one would be the better fit for an individual's typing or gaming needs.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Dareu Aqua linear switch offers a unique blend of chirpy and clacky sound signatures, giving it a distinctive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch is known for its deep and resonant 'clack', providing enthusiasts with a satisfying acoustic feedback. Both switches excel in offering a distinct sound profile, with the Aqua delivering a lighter and chirpier sound, while the Hyacinth V2 offers a deeper and more robust clack. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the lively chirpy sound of the Aqua or the resonant clack of the Hyacinth V2 to enhance their typing experience.

When it comes to feel, the Dareu Aqua switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature and feathery touch, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. In contrast, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 switch offers a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience, providing users with a smooth and responsive feel. Both switches prioritize comfort and usability, with the Aqua focusing on light actuation force and effortless typing, while the Hyacinth V2 emphasizes smoothness and responsiveness. Whether users prefer a light and effortless feel with the Aqua or a smooth and polished sensation with the Hyacinth V2, both switches cater to different typing preferences.

Overall, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Aqua excels in providing a chirpy and clacky sound signature with an easy-to-press and feathery feel, while the Hyacinth V2 stands out for its deep clack sound and creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the distinctive qualities of the Aqua or the Hyacinth V2 to enhance their mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, ensuring users can enjoy a personalized and immersive typing experience based on their preferences.

Conclusion

In closing, when considering whether to choose the Dareu Aqua linear switch or the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, you should take into account your preference for typing experience. If you prioritize a super light actuation force and a unique blend of chirpy and clacky sound signature, then the Dareu Aqua switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you seek a linear switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a satisfying deep 'clack' sound accompanied by a smooth and buttery typing experience, then the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 switch would be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your desired sound profile and typing feel to ensure an enjoyable and personalized mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

Dareu Aqua Linear

$6.59

$3.76 per 10

Learn more

HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 Linear

$2.91 per 10

Learn more