Aflion Blush vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Blush and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Blush is praised for its smooth and snappy feel, thanks to its longer, two-stage spring and long pole that produces a poppy sound signature. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2U stands out for its fuller travel distance and bounciness provided by a 22mm spring, harkening back to traditional typing experiences while still maintaining a modern feel. The Blush is described as 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Silky', 'Buttery', while the Hyacinth V2U is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Polished', 'Silky', 'Subdued'. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, making them suitable for different typing preferences. 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
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
Dual-stage stainless steel spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Blush and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Blush utilizes nylon, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Likewise, the Hyacinth V2U also features a nylon bottom housing for a similar typing experience.
Despite both switches sharing a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, the different housing materials do have an impact on the overall typing experience. The bottom housing material, nylon, tends to have more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, creating a duller and rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the top housing material, polycarbonate, has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound. This split between the qualities of the top and bottom housing materials contributes to the unique typing experience offered by each switch.
In summary, while both the Aflion Blush and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U feature a polycarbonate top housing for a sharp sound profile and a nylon bottom housing for a fuller sound profile, the different materials have distinct effects on the typing experience. The Blush may offer a sharper sound upon key release due to its polycarbonate top housing, while the Hyacinth V2U may provide a deeper sound when bottoming out keys with its nylon bottom housing. Ultimately, these differences in housing materials contribute to the overall feel and sound of each switch for keyboard enthusiasts to consider when choosing between the two.
Weight
The Aflion Blush linear switch has a bottom out force of 58 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch, which has a bottom out force of 52 grams. Both switches have medium actuation forces, with the Blush's actuation force being unspecified and the Hyacinth V2U's actuation force being 45 grams. Those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Hyacinth V2U, while those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Blush. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience, with weight being a key factor to consider.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch, it is evident that the Blush has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the Hyacinth V2U with a longer travel distance of 3.9 mm. The Blush offers a more shallow distance for those who prefer quicker response times, making it ideal for gamers. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2U provides a deeper travel distance which some users may find more satisfying due to the added depth. Both switches offer varying experiences based on their travel distance, with the Blush being shorter and the Hyacinth V2U being longer in comparison. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Aflion Blush has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Blush for $4.07.
The HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U comes in at $2.91 per 10 switches.
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 Blush linear switch from Aflion is known for its low-pitched sound signature, offering a bass-heavy and mellow tone. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch produces a neutral and subdued sound, with a dampened and subtle sound profile. The choice of board and keycaps can also influence the sound of the switch.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Blush switch is described as creamy, silky, and buttery, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience. The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switch, on the other hand, offers a polished and silky feel, with a smooth and refined finish that results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches are known for their smooth typing experience, enhancing the overall typing feel and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys.
Overall, the Aflion Blush linear switch stands out for its poppy sound signature and smooth, full, and snappy feel due to the longer, two-stage spring design. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch offers a fuller travel distance and a bouncier feel thanks to the 22mm spring, while also providing a softer and bassier sound signature. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a medium-bottom out force and enjoy a smooth, snappy typing experience with a poppy sound signature, the Aflion Blush linear switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force and a fuller travel distance with a bouncy feel and a softer, bassier sound signature, then the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch might be more up your alley. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of typing feel, sound signature, and bottom out force. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing preferences and needs.
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