TTC Brother vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch, it becomes clear that they each offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Brother stands out for its lightweight nature, satisfyingly crunchy sound signature, and balanced tactile bump, making it a top choice for clicky switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2U boasts a fuller travel distance reminiscent of traditional typing experiences, enhanced by a bouncy 22mm spring and nylon construction for a softer, bassier sound. While the Brother is characterized as 'Crunchy', 'Easy-to-press', and 'Stepped', the Hyacinth V2U is labeled as 'Neutral', 'Polished', 'Silky', and 'Subdued'. These general pointers can help guide your decision, but diving deeper into the nuances of each switch will ultimately allow you to choose the best fit for your keyboard preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17.5mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the TTC Brother and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiff plastic that leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this top housing material, their construction may differ slightly in terms of design and execution.
In contrast, the housing materials for the bottom of the switch differ between the TTC Brother and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U. The Brother utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which is known to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2U also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar sound experience to the Brother switch. This highlights the importance of the bottom housing material in influencing the overall sound and feel of the switch.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the TTC Brother and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U respectively showcases a balance between a clear and resonant sound profile created by the polycarbonate and a deeper, fuller sound produced by the nylon. While both switches may offer a similar sound experience due to their shared top housing material, the nuances in the bottom housing material contribute to the distinct characteristics of each switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Hyacinth V2U has a heavier bottom out force of 52 grams, while the bottom out force of the Brother switch is unknown. The difference in actuation force means that the Brother switch may feel lighter and more responsive when typing, while the Hyacinth V2U switch may require a slightly stronger push. Both switches offer a unique typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences for typing and gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch, we can see that the Brother has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm while the Hyacinth V2U has a longer travel distance of 3.9 mm. The Brother switch would provide a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it popular among gamers who value speed. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2U switch would offer a more substantial key press feel with its longer travel distance, which could be preferred by those who enjoy a more tactile typing experience. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the Hyacinth V2U being slightly longer than the Brother. Overall, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for either a quicker response or a more deliberate key press.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Brother has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Brother for $3.30.
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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Brother clicky switch offers a crunchy and satisfying auditory experience, reminiscent of stepping on crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch provides a more subdued and neutral sound profile, offering a quieter typing experience overall. Depending on personal preference, the Brother switch will appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced and crisp sound, while the Hyacinth V2U switch will cater to individuals seeking a more subtle and dampened typing noise.
In terms of feel, the Brother switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force for activation and providing a gentle typing experience that reduces finger fatigue. Additionally, its stepped design offers a unique tactile feel compared to other switches. Conversely, the Hyacinth V2U switch boasts a polished and silky smooth feel, enhancing the overall typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches offer distinct tactile experiences, with the Brother focusing on ease of activation and tactile feedback, while the Hyacinth V2U prioritizes a refined and smooth typing sensation.
Overall, the TTC Brother clicky switch and Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While the Brother switch delivers a crisp and crunchy sound accompanied by an easy-to-press tactile experience, the Hyacinth V2U switch provides a more subdued, neutral sound with a polished and silky smooth feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing feel, both switches offer unique qualities that can elevate the typing experience, allowing newcomers to mechanical keyboard switches to explore and find the perfect match for their needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a light actuation force and a crisp, crunchy sound with a balanced tactile bump, then the Brother clicky switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force, a fuller travel distance, and a softer, bassier sound with extra bounciness, then the Hyacinth V2U linear switch is the better choice for you. Consider how you like your keyboard switches to feel and sound, and choose accordingly to enhance your typing experience.
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