Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The CAP Anniversary is praised for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes due to its novel CAP structure and aerodynamic stem design. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2U provides a fuller travel distance and a softer, bassier sound signature, appealing to those who prefer a more traditional typing experience. While the CAP Anniversary is described as 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', the Hyacinth V2U is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Polished', 'Silky', and 'Subdued'. Each switch has its own strengths and characteristics that may suit different typing styles and 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 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
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, making it a popular choice for switches that prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switches.
On the other hand, both switches feature a nylon bottom housing, which brings a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This material is considered a classic choice for switch housing and is commonly used to enhance the overall typing experience by providing a softer feel and reducing noise levels.
While the housing materials for the top and bottom of the switches differ, the overall impact on sound and feel is not drastically different. The qualities of each material blend together to create a cohesive typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has more of an impact on the sound when releasing a key. Whether using the Gateron CAP Anniversary or the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U, you can expect to achieve similar results in terms of sound quality and typing experience due to the carefully chosen combination of housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom-out forces of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch, it is clear that the Hyacinth V2U is the lighter of the two. The CAP Anniversary has a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a higher bottom-out force of 65 grams, making it a more medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2U has a lower actuation force of 45 grams and a lower bottom-out force of 52 grams, making it a more medium-light switch. This means that the Hyacinth V2U may be preferred by those who prefer a lighter typing experience, while the CAP Anniversary may be favored by those who enjoy a slightly heavier push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom-out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.9 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances but offer slightly different experiences to the user. The shorter travel distance of the Hyacinth V2U may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the slightly longer travel distance of the CAP Anniversary may provide a more satisfying depth to the keystrokes for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CAP Anniversary has an MSRP of $4.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CAP Anniversary for $4.10.
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 CAP Anniversary switch is renowned for its quiet operation, with a lack of specific descriptors provided. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switch offers a more subdued sound profile, providing a softer, bassier sound due to its nylon construction. Depending on personal preference, the choice between these switches would come down to whether you prefer a quieter typing experience with the CAP Anniversary or a more subdued sound with the Hyacinth V2U.
When it comes to feel, the CAP Anniversary switch presents a range of descriptors including "snappy," "creamy," and "polished," highlighting its responsive and smooth typing experience. Conversely, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switch is also described as "polished" and "silky," emphasizing a similarly smooth typing feel with reduced friction. Both switches offer a refined typing experience, and the decision between them would likely come down to personal preference for specific feel characteristics.
Overall, both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switches bring unique qualities to the table. The CAP Anniversary excels in providing exceptionally smooth keystrokes with stability and minimal wobble, while the Hyacinth V2U offers a fuller travel distance and a softer, bassier sound signature. Depending on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both in your mechanical keyboard switch choice, you can achieve similar results with either switch by carefully considering your preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and exceptional smoothness, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch would be a great choice. Its unique CAP structure and aerodynamic design provide a stable and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a fuller travel distance, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch might be more suited to your preferences. The V2Us offer a bouncier feel with a softer sound signature, marrying traditional typing experiences with modern features. Ultimately, your decision between these two switches will depend on your preference for bottom out force, smoothness, and typing feel.
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