HMX 1989 vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 43g
An in-depth look at the HMX 1989 and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX 1989 and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The HMX 1989 is renowned for its deep, thocky sound profile, making it an ideal choice for gamers and typists who appreciate the tactile feedback and satisfying acoustics typically associated with a more traditional switch. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g focuses on delivering a whisper-quiet typing experience, with an ultra-light actuation force of just 43g, appealing to those who prefer a serene environment while typing or gaming, such as office workers or night owls. Each switch brings unique benefits to the table: the 1989 boasts a robust feel that enhances the typing experience, while the Silent Sakura caters to users looking for a muted option without compromising on performance. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
T5
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the HMX 1989 and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g, we see a distinct divergence in their housing materials with respect to the top housing. The HMX 1989 utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its rigidity and ability to create a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This stiffness contributes to a sound that is not only crisper but also more resonant, enhancing the auditory experience, particularly in setups that utilize RGB lighting due to the material's translucency. However, the Silent Sakura - 43g opts for a nylon top housing, a choice that often results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, leading to a rounder and less piercing auditory output, which can be preferred for a more muted and subdued typing experience.
Examining the bottom housings reveals a notable reversal of materials between the two switches, ultimately influencing the overall performance and sound of each. The HMX 1989 features a nylon bottom housing, contributing to a fuller sound profile that aligns with its top housing’s sharper output. The result is a balanced auditory experience where the lower frequencies are more pronounced. Conversely, the Silent Sakura - 43g makes use of polycarbonate for its bottom housing, delivering a clearer and more resonant bottom-out sound. This difference gives the Silent Sakura a crisper auditory experience at the moment of bottoming out, contrasting with the more rounded tone of the HMX 1989.
Ultimately, the combination of housing materials in each switch leads to divergent sound profiles instigated by how each material interacts during use. While the top housing predominantly influences the sound on key release and the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound, users of either switch will appreciate how the specific qualities of each housing material contribute to the overall experience. If users seek to achieve similar results between the two switches, they may find it crucial to focus on their overall typing style and preferences. Tailoring their expectations to the differing auditory characteristics of nylon's fuller tones and polycarbonate’s clarity will allow them to appreciate the unique offerings of each model while still enjoying a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
The HMX 1989 linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch present distinctly different characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, catering to varying user preferences. The HMX 1989 features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light option that offers a more substantial feel when pressed down. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g is lighter, with an actuation force of only 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, which allows for an effortless typing experience that can benefit users who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. While both switches emphasize different tactile experiences, the HMX 1989 requires a heavier push, catering to those who prefer a firmer actuation, while the Silent Sakura - 43g is ideal for those seeking a lighter touch with less effort involved. Thus, users looking for a lighter switch will gravitate towards the Silent Sakura, while those desiring a more substantial feel should consider the HMX 1989.
Travel distance
The HMX 1989 linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch both feature a travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that users can expect the same amount of key travel when pressing down on either switch. This similarity in travel distance allows for a consistent typing experience, as both switches will give the same tactile feedback and response when fully engaged. As such, whether one prefers the HMX 1989 or the HMX Silent Sakura, the performance regarding key travel will yield similar results.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX 1989 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the 1989 for $3.29.
The HMX Silent Sakura - 43g has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Sakura - 43g for $2.99.
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 HMX 1989 switch is renowned for producing a deep, thocky sound that many enthusiasts appreciate for its satisfying auditory feedback during typing. This characteristic makes it particularly appealing for users who enjoy a pronounced acoustic profile, which adds a layer of tactile engagement to the typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switch emphasizes a much quieter operation, designed to resemble the soft patter of rain. Its whisper-quiet nature caters to those who prefer a serene typing environment, minimizing distractions and making it suitable for shared spaces or late-night work sessions. While both switches provide enjoyable auditory experiences, they cater to different preferences in sound, appealing to either those seeking pronounced audio clicks or those prioritizing silence.
When it comes to feel, the HMX 1989 offers a substantial and chunky typing experience that many users find satisfying, offering good resistance and a weighty feedback that enhances the tactile nature of each keystroke. This can be particularly engaging for gamers and typists who thrive on responsive switches that provide a sense of control. Conversely, the Silent Sakura - 43g switch is designed for a lighter touch with an ultra-light 43g bottom-out force, making it exceptionally easy to actuate with delicate presses. This lower resistance delivers a smooth and effortless typing experience, which is especially appealing for users who may prefer speed and quick keystrokes over a more tactile feedback. While these switches differ significantly in feel, they each provide unique advantages, allowing users to select based on their typing style and comfort preferences.
In conclusion, the HMX 1989 and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches each excel in their own right but cater to distinctly different user priorities. The 1989 switch stands out with its deep, thocky sound and substantial feel, making it ideal for those who favor a more pronounced acoustic experience and tactile feedback. Meanwhile, the Silent Sakura - 43g focuses on delivering whisper-quiet operation and a lighter keystroke, appealing to typists looking for a serene and gentle typing experience. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches can deliver enjoyable typing experiences, yet they present unique characteristics that make them suited to different typing styles and contexts.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, consider your typing style and environment. If you enjoy a deeper, thocky feel and prefer a slightly firmer keypress with a bottom-out force of 53 grams, the HMX 1989 will likely suit you better. It is ideal for those who appreciate a more tactile experience while gaming or typing, making it a good choice for users who value responsive feedback in each keystroke. On the other hand, if you are seeking a quieter typing experience with less resistance, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g, which features a light 43-gram bottom-out force, is an excellent option. This switch is perfect for light typists or those who work in shared spaces where noise levels matter, as it is designed to produce minimal sound while still providing satisfactory linear feedback. Ultimately, your choice should reflect both your personal comfort and the specific requirements of your typing environment. Whether you lean towards the more pronounced feel of the 1989 or the serene silence of the Silent Sakura, both switches offer unique benefits tailored to different preferences.
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