HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Gateron Smoothie Silver mechanical keyboard switches, one can see distinct differences that cater to different preferences. The Hyacinth V2U offers a fuller travel distance of 3.9mm, appealing to those who prefer a more traditional typing experience with added bounciness due to its 22mm spring. Crafted from nylon, these switches provide a softer, bassier sound signature, blending the old and the new. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver features a short travel distance for quick actuation, along with a thocky sound, unmatched smoothness, and a feather-light touch. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
52g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Gateron Smoothie Silver provide unique characteristics to the sound profile of the switches. The Hyacinth V2U's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharp, high-pitched sound, perfect for those looking for a more crisp typing experience. In contrast, the Smoothie Silver's POM top housing produces a deeper, more muted sound, appealing to users who prefer a softer typing feel. Both materials have their own distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and tactile feedback.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the nylon housing in the Hyacinth V2U offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and creating a rounder tone. Similarly, the POM bottom housing of the Smoothie Silver contributes to a deeper and muted sound profile, providing a unique typing experience. While both materials offer a similar deep sound, the nylon in the Hyacinth V2U may provide a slightly different feel compared to the POM in the Smoothie Silver, giving users options to choose based on their personal preferences.
Overall, the choice between the Hyacinth V2U and the Gateron Smoothie Silver will come down to individual preference for sound and feel. Whether one prefers the sharper, crisper sound of polycarbonate in the Hyacinth V2U or the deeper, more muted sound of POM in the Smoothie Silver, both switches offer unique typing experiences that cater to different tastes. Ultimately, users can expect to get similar results in terms of sound quality and typing feel, but with slight variations based on the specific housing materials used in each switch.
Weight
When comparing the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch to the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Hyacinth V2U has a bottom out force of 52 grams, providing a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the Smoothie Silver, whose bottom out force is not specified. The Hyacinth V2U offers a medium-light weight feel, which may be preferred by those looking for a balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. In contrast, the weight of the Smoothie Silver remains unknown, making it difficult to determine how it compares in terms of typing feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference, with some users favoring a lighter actuation force for extended typing sessions, while others may prefer a heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Smoothie Silver has a shorter travel distance compared to the Hyacinth V2U. A shorter travel distance can be preferred by gamers looking for quicker response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying keypress feel for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience desired. If you are looking for a similar feel in terms of travel distance, both switches offer relatively short distances that fall within the range of preferences for many users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Smoothie Silver has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie Silver for $2.60.
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 Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U offers a neutral and subdued sound profile, creating a softer and bouncier typing experience with a bassier sound signature. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver provides a thocky sound with unparalleled smoothness and a feather-light touch. Depending on personal preference and other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, users may enjoy the more traditional sound of the V2U or the unique thocky sound of the Smoothie Silver.
When it comes to feel, the Hyacinth V2U is known for its polished and silky typing experience, offering reduced friction and a refined finish for a sleek typing feel. In contrast, the Smoothie Silver's feel is unknown, so it is difficult to directly compare the two switches in this aspect. However, users who prefer smooth and minimally resistant key travel may find the V2U to be more to their liking compared to the unknown feel of the Smoothie Silver.
In conclusion, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switches offer distinct sound profiles and qualities in terms of feel. The V2U provides a softer, bouncier experience with a bassier sound, while the Smoothie Silver offers a thocky sound and feather-light touch. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between these switches to tailor their typing experience to their liking. Ultimately, both switches provide unique characteristics that can enhance the typing experience for different preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switches, consider your preferences and priorities. If you value a fuller travel distance, bounciness, and a softer, bassier sound signature, the Hyacinth V2U may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize lightning-fast actuation, a thocky sound, unparalleled smoothness, and a feather-light touch, the Smoothie Silver could be the switch of your dreams. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what typing experience you prefer and what features are most important to you. Happy typing!
Mentioned in this article
