Gateron CM vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CM and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that both switches offer their own unique set of features and characteristics. The CM stands out with its full nylon housing, providing a deeper and richer sound signature, along with a smooth typing experience thanks to its factory lube job. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2U embraces a longer travel distance of 3.9mm, offering a more traditional typing feel with added bounciness from its 22mm spring. While the CM switch is described as 'Buttery', 'Bassy', and 'Thocky', the V2U is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Silky', and 'Subdued'. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths and appeals, making them suitable for different preferences and needs. 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CM and Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U both utilize different materials for their top housing, with the CM using nylon and the Hyacinth V2U using polycarbonate. While the CM's nylon top housing creates a duller and rounder sound profile due to its softer plastic nature, the Hyacinth V2U's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound profile thanks to its stiffer plastic composition. Aesthetically, the Hyacinth V2U's clear polycarbonate top housing allows for RGB lighting, which may be a desired feature for those looking to customize their setup.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing, both the Gateron CM and Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U opt for nylon material. This choice results in a similar deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches, as nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, leading to a rounder sound. The decision to use nylon for the bottom housing in both switches further underscores its classic switch housing material status and the impact it can have on the overall typing experience.
While the top and bottom housing materials differ between the Gateron CM and Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U, the impact of these materials on the overall typing experience is split between the bottom and top of the switch. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing material has a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches aim to provide a unique typing experience through their choice of housing materials, catering to the preferences of users seeking specific sound profiles and aesthetics in their mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch, we see some differences in weight. The CM has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the Hyacinth V2U is lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, offering a medium-light feel. These differences cater to individuals with varying preferences for typing feedback. Some may appreciate the lighter weight of the Hyacinth V2U for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer the heavier weight of the CM for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron CM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm. In this case, the Hyacinth V2U has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the CM switch. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their faster response times. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance of the CM switch to feel more abrupt, while the longer travel distance of the Hyacinth V2U switch may provide a deeper typing experience. Overall, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preference for responsiveness and key press depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CM has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CM for $4.25.
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 Gateron CM linear switch is best described as bassy, thocky, and low-pitched, providing a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound, producing a dampened and subtle sound signature. The choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference, with the CM offering a more pronounced and bass-heavy sound, while the Hyacinth V2U provides a smoother and quieter typing experience.
As for feel, both the Gateron CM and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switches are described as polished, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and effortless key travel. The CM switch is further characterized as buttery, polished, and creamy, offering a seamless, uniform typing sensation with minimal resistance. Meanwhile, the Hyacinth V2U switch is noted for its silky and polished feel, enhancing overall smoothness and minimizing resistance during key presses. Both switches provide a luxurious typing experience that caters to different preferences in terms of typing feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron CM linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch both offer unique sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences. The CM switch excels in providing a bass-heavy and bouncy typing experience with its full nylon housing, while the Hyacinth V2U switch offers a more traditional and neutral typing feel with a fuller travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on whether you prefer a deeper sound profile and bouncy typing experience (CM) or a smoother, quieter typing feel with a fuller travel distance (Hyacinth V2U).
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron CM linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch, consider your preferences and priorities. If you value a medium-heavy bottom out force, a bouncy typing experience, and a bassy, thocky sound profile, then the Gateron CM switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force, a fuller travel distance, and a softer, bassier sound signature, along with a smoother, polished typing feel, then the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switch might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should align with your typing style, sound preferences, and overall typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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