TTC Gold Brown Pro vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U stand out for their unique characteristics. The Gold Brown Pro is a tactile switch that offers a subtle, nuanced feedback with a gentle tactile bump, perfect for those who value understated tactile experiences. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2U is a linear switch that provides a fuller travel distance and a softer, bassier sound signature for a more traditional typing experience. While the Gold Brown Pro excels in providing a background presence with a low-pitched sound profile, the Hyacinth V2U offers a bouncier feel with its 22mm spring construction. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
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
18mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate as the material for their top housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when typing on the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows for the light to shine through the housing.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Gold Brown Pro uses nylon while the Hyacinth V2U also utilizes nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Both switches benefit from the characteristics of nylon in their bottom housings, providing a unique typing experience for users.
Overall, despite the differences in their bottom housing materials, the Gold Brown Pro and the Hyacinth V2U share similar qualities in their top housing materials. Both switches offer a sharp, high-pitched sound profile with their polycarbonate top housings, creating a clear and resonant typing experience. Whether you choose the Gold Brown Pro with its nylon bottom housing for a deeper sound or the Hyacinth V2U with the same nylon bottom housing for a fuller sound, both switches provide unique and enjoyable typing experiences based on their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch, it is evident that both switches have a similar actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Gold Brown Pro has an unknown bottom out force, while the Hyacinth V2U has a bottom out force of 52 grams, which is classified as medium-light. The Gold Brown Pro is lighter in terms of bottom out force compared to the Hyacinth V2U. Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing a switch, as a lighter actuation force allows for longer typing sessions and gaming, while a heavier bottom out force provides a more substantial typing experience. In this case, the Gold Brown Pro may be preferred for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, while the Hyacinth V2U is suitable for those looking for a slightly heavier push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.9 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Gold Brown Pro being on the shorter end and the Hyacinth V2U being slightly longer. Gamers may prefer the Gold Brown Pro for its quicker response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Hyacinth V2U. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for travel distance and keypress feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown Pro for $2.90.
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 TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, giving off a deep and satisfying tone with a moderate actuation force requirement. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch offers a more subdued sound, thanks to its nylon construction that produces a softer, bassier sound signature. While both switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, the Gold Brown Pro leans towards a deeper and richer sound, while the Hyacinth V2U provides a more mellow and dampened sound. Depending on personal preference and setup, users can expect a subtle and quiet typing experience with the Gold Brown Pro, while the Hyacinth V2U brings a blend of traditional and modern sound qualities.
When it comes to feel, both switches share similarities in being polished and silky, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and minimal resistance. The TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch is further described as mild, subtle, and stepped, offering a gentle and approachable typing feel with a subtle tactile bump for added feedback. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch focuses on a longer travel distance of 3.9mm and a 22mm spring for a bouncier feel, catering to those who prefer a more traditional typing experience with enhanced smoothness. With a focus on smooth key travel and minimized resistance, both switches aim to provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience for users across different preferences.
Overall, the TTC Gold Brown Pro and Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. While the Gold Brown Pro provides a subtle and nuanced tactile experience with a thocky sound profile, the Hyacinth V2U stands out for its longer travel distance and softer sound signature. Whether users prioritize a quiet and understated typing feel or prefer a blend of traditional and modern characteristics, both switches offer a polished and silky typing experience that enhances overall comfort and performance. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style when choosing between these two switches, ensuring a satisfying and tailored mechanical keyboard experience for newcomers and enthusiasts alike.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch, your choice should be based on your preference for tactile feedback and sound profile. If you value a subtle, nuanced tactile bump and a quiet typing experience, the TTC Gold Brown Pro is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a fuller travel distance, added bounciness, and a softer sound signature, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should align with your typing style and preferences to enhance your overall keyboarding experience.
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