HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and HMX Swift are both linear mechanical keyboard switches known for their unique sound profiles and smoothness. The Hyacinth V2 is distinguished by its crisp top-out sound and deep 'clack', providing a resonant and satisfying auditory experience for enthusiasts who prioritize sound performance. On the other hand, the HMX Swift stands out for its deep sound profile and silky smoothness, complemented by a delicate 42g actuation force. While the Hyacinth V2 offers a seamless blend of sound and performance, the HMX Swift provides a bright sound signature with a touch of smoothness. Both switches are categorized as 'Clacky', but the Hyacinth V2 is also described as 'Creamy' and 'Snappy', while the HMX Swift is labeled as 'Feathery' and 'Bouncy'. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 22mm Korean spring
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the HMX Swift both showcase different housing materials in their design. The Hyacinth V2 features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the Swift utilizes a nylon top housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The difference in material results in distinct sound characteristics, with the polycarbonate offering a more clear and resonant tone compared to the rounder and duller sound produced by the nylon top housing of the Swift.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Hyacinth V2 and the Swift opt for nylon material. This choice leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. While both switches share this housing material for the bottom, the impact on the overall sound and feel may vary slightly due to the different top housings. The split qualities of the housing materials contribute to a unique typing experience for each switch, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the HMX Swift plays a significant role in shaping their sound profiles. While the Hyacinth V2 stands out with its polycarbonate top housing producing a crisper and more resonant sound, the HMX Swift's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller tone. Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, emphasizing a consistent deep and full sound profile. Whether you prefer a sharper and higher-pitched sound or a deeper and fuller tone, the housing materials of these switches cater to different preferences and contribute to the overall typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, we can see that they both fall within the lighter range when it comes to typing force. The Hyacinth V2 has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Swift's 42 grams, but both have relatively low bottom out forces of 52 grams and 50 grams, respectively. This means that both switches provide a lighter typing experience, making them suitable for those who prefer a gentler touch when typing. However, if we were to compare them in terms of weight, the Swift would be considered the lighter option due to its slightly lower actuation force. Ultimately, whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience will determine which switch is the better choice for them.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the 3.9 mm travel distance of the HMX Swift linear switch. This makes the Hyacinth V2 more suitable for those who prefer a faster response time, such as gamers. The shorter travel distance allows for quicker actuation of the keys. On the other hand, the Swift linear switch's longer travel distance may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial key press with a greater sense of depth. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their respective travel distances, catering to individual preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Swift has an MSRP of $3.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift for $3.45.
The HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 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
The subjective qualities of the sound between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the HMX Swift linear switches are quite similar, as both are described as 'clacky'. A clacky switch produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, offering a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory feedback. The Hyacinth V2 is known for its deep 'clack' sound, while the Swift stands out with its deep sound profile due to its nylon housings. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's build and the keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Hyacinth V2 is often described as 'creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy'. These descriptors point towards a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and effortless key travel. On the other hand, the Swift switch is noted for being 'easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy', indicating a light actuation force, comfortable typing experience, and spring-like feedback.
Taking all the available information into consideration, both the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 and the HMX Swift linear switches offer a pleasant typing experience with unique characteristics. While the Hyacinth V2 leans towards a seamless blend of sound and performance with its deep 'clack' and smooth feel, the HMX Swift provides users with a deeper sound profile, smoothness, and a light actuation force. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches can deliver satisfying results for enthusiasts looking for a premium typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you value a crisp, deep 'clack' sound with a medium-light bottom out force and a creamy, frictionless feel, the Hyacinth V2 would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter, easy-to-press switch with a silky smoothness and a feathery feel, the Swift may be more suitable for your typing preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the auditory feedback and typing experience that best suits your personal preferences and typing style.
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