HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U vs. KTT Laurel
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the KTT Laurel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the KTT Laurel both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Hyacinth V2U stands out for its fuller travel distance of 3.9mm, providing a nod to traditional typing experiences with a bouncy feel enhanced by a 22mm spring. Crafted from nylon, these switches produce a softer, bassier sound signature, blending the old and the new in a polished and subdued manner. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel boasts a medium-light linear switch with a full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design, offering a balance of responsiveness and comfort. With a subtly low-pitched sound profile, the Laurel switch provides a snappy typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and typing style; 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
43g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22m spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the KTT Laurel, it is clear that they both offer unique sound profiles. The use of polycarbonate in the Hyacinth V2U's top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, while the POM top housing of the Laurel generates a deeper and more muted sound. Both materials offer distinct auditory experiences, catering to different preferences in typing sound. However, they both excel in providing a satisfying typing experience, albeit with different tonal qualities.
When it comes to the bottom housing materials, the Hyacinth V2U's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. On the other hand, the POM bottom housing of the Laurel provides a similarly deep and muted sound experience. While the two materials may have differing levels of sound absorption and resonance, they both contribute to creating a pleasant typing sound that is unique to each switch. Overall, the bottom housings of both switches play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience.
Despite their differences in housing materials, both the Hyacinth V2U and the Laurel offer a satisfying typing experience. The split in housing materials between the top and bottom of each switch allows for a nuanced sound profile that combines the qualities of both materials. While the Hyacinth V2U may have a sharper sound due to its polycarbonate top housing, the Laurel's POM top housing provides a deeper and more muted sound. Ultimately, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience that caters to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch exhibit some distinctions. The Hyacinth V2U has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, while the Laurel has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This makes the Hyacinth V2U slightly heavier in both categories compared to the Laurel, which falls into the lighter range. The actuation force determines the force needed to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the pressure required to fully press a key. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Laurel for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others might opt for the slightly heavier feel of the Hyacinth V2U for a more robust typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for typing feel and force requirement.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch is 3.9 mm, while the KTT Laurel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Laurel has a slightly shorter travel distance than the Hyacinth. A difference of 0.4 mm may not seem significant, but it can affect the overall typing experience. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. Those who prefer a more abrupt feel may lean towards the Laurel, while those seeking a deeper key press may opt for the slightly longer travel distance of the Hyacinth. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch offers a neutral and subdued sound profile, making it suitable for various typing environments. With its fuller travel distance and nylon construction, it provides a softer, bassier sound signature that blends the familiarity of traditional typing experiences with modern innovations. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel linear switch presents a low-pitched sound profile, offering a more mellow and bass-heavy tone that differs from the Hyacinth V2U. When it comes to feel, the Hyacinth V2U is polished and silky, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In comparison, the Laurel switch is described as snappy, offering a super responsive typing experience that adds a level of liveliness to each keystroke. Overall, while the Hyacinth V2U and Laurel switches differ in sound and feel qualities, both switches are designed to cater to specific preferences and needs of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, ensuring that users can find the switch that best suits their typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a switch with a fuller travel distance, bounciness, and a softer sound profile, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a short travel distance, a balanced responsiveness, and a low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Laurel linear switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a traditional typing experience with a bouncy feel and soft sound or a more modern, responsive typing experience with a low-pitched sound. Whichever switch you choose, both the Hyacinth V2U and the Laurel offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
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