HMX EMO vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the decision can often come down to personal preference and typing style. On one hand, we have the HMX EMO switch, a linear switch known for its lively and clacky feel, along with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force. This switch offers an effortless and smooth typing experience that many users find satisfying. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U is also a linear switch but with a fuller travel distance of 3.9mm, harkening back to traditional typing experiences. Enhanced with a 22mm spring and crafted from nylon, these switches provide a softer and bassier sound signature, offering a unique blend of old and new qualities. While the EMO switch may appeal to those seeking a bouncy and lively typing experience, the Hyacinth V2U may attract those looking for a more traditional feel with added depth and richness. 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
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
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
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX EMO and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U, it is evident that both keyboards utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. This similarity suggests that both keyboards will have a similar sound profile and aesthetic appeal when it comes to their top housings.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the EMO uses nylon while the Hyacinth V2U also opts for nylon. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This shared bottom housing material indicates that both keyboards will likely offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile, with a deeper and fuller tone due to the nylon material.
Overall, while the top housing material of polycarbonate in both the HMX EMO and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U may provide a similar sound profile, the use of nylon in the bottom housing sets them apart. The EMO and the Hyacinth V2U will differ in the typing experience, with the EMO offering a deeper and fuller sound due to nylon's sound absorption properties. This contrast in bottom housing materials highlights the importance of the housing composition in determining the overall sound and feel of a keyboard.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch, we see that the EMO has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Hyacinth V2U's slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. The EMO also has a lighter bottom out force of 46 grams, whereas the Hyacinth V2U has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 52 grams. This means that the EMO provides a lighter typing experience overall, while the Hyacinth V2U offers a slightly more substantial typing feel. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the EMO may be the better option, whereas those who prefer a stronger push feel may lean towards the Hyacinth V2U. Both switches provide similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, but the slight differences in weight may be noticeable to some users.
Travel distance
The HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 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 EMO. The difference may not be significant, but it could be noticeable to users who are sensitive to small variations in travel distance. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which is preferred by gamers for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference regarding the amount of depth and feedback desired while typing or gaming.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the HMX EMO comes in at $3.49, whereas the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U comes in at $2.91.
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 HMX EMO switch is known for its lively and clacky sound, while the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switch offers a softer, bassier sound signature. The EMO switch provides a more pronounced sound when typing, adding a satisfying auditory element to the typing experience. On the other hand, the V2U switch produces a more subdued sound, creating a quieter and more subtle typing experience overall. Choosing between the two switches will ultimately depend on personal preference, with the EMO offering a more energetic sound and the V2U providing a more mellow sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the HMX EMO switch is praised for its feather-light 46g bottom-out force, resulting in a bouncy and effortless typing experience. The EMO switch is factory-lubed, ensuring a smooth and satisfying feel with reduced friction during key presses. In contrast, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switch boasts a fuller travel distance of 3.9mm, reminiscent of traditional typing experiences. Enhanced with a 22mm spring, the V2U switch offers a bouncier feel, delivering a more dynamic typing experience. Both switches provide unique tactile experiences, with the EMO focusing on a lighter and bouncier feel, while the V2U emphasizes a traditional typing feel with added bounce.
Overall, the HMX EMO linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The EMO switch provides a lively and clacky sound with a feather-light bottom-out force, coupled with a smooth and bouncy typing feel. On the other hand, the V2U switch offers a softer, bassier sound signature and a fuller travel distance for a more traditional typing experience. Choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, with both switches delivering quality performance in their unique ways. Whether opting for the energetic sound and bouncy feel of the EMO or the subdued sound and traditional typing experience of the V2U, users can expect a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience from either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX EMO linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a lighter touch and a bouncy typing experience, the EMO with its 46g bottom out force may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly firmer touch and a fuller travel distance, the Hyacinth V2U with its 52g bottom out force and 3.9mm travel distance could be more suitable. Additionally, consider the sound and feel of each switch - the EMO offers a clacky feel while the Hyacinth V2U provides a softer, bassier sound signature. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound profile.
Mentioned in this article
