Gateron Aliaz vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 43g
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Aliaz and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g present two distinct options catering to different typing preferences. The Aliaz is a tactile switch renowned for its silent performance, making it an ideal choice for office settings where noise reduction is paramount. With a medium-heavy weight, users can enjoy a pronounced keystroke feel that provides satisfying feedback without the clatter often associated with mechanical switches. On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g is a linear switch designed for those who prefer a feather-light touch; its whisper-quiet operation evokes the calming sound of rain, appealing especially to light typists desiring a serene atmosphere while they type. While the Aliaz offers a balance of tactile feedback and muted sound, the Silent Sakura prioritizes ease of use with its light actuation force. 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
60g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
75g
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
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and HMX Silent Sakura - 43g, it is evident that they utilize different materials for their top housings, which significantly influences their sound profiles. The Gateron Aliaz features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its sharp and high-pitched sound characteristics. Polycarbonate's rigidity enhances sound clarity and resonance, leading to a crisp auditory feedback when typing. Conversely, the Silent Sakura - 43g employs a nylon top housing, which traditionally produces a deeper and fuller sound. The inherent softness of nylon dampens sound, resulting in a more muted, rounder auditory experience. Thus, users can expect distinctly different acoustics when actuating each switch, with the polycarbonate Aliaz providing a brighter sound, while the nylon Sakura opts for a warmer tone.
The structural materials of the bottom housings between these two switches are notably different. The Aliaz's bottom housing is also made of polycarbonate, mirroring the material found in its top housing. This consistency in material produces an overall sharper sound profile, allowing for a cohesive audio experience when both the top and bottom housings resonate together. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing as well, which aligns with its top housing's nylon to create an interesting sound dynamic. While both switches benefit from the clarity of the polycarbonate in their bottoms, the juxtaposition of nylon on top introduces a unique blending of sounds, differing from the Aliaz's pure polycarbonate construction.
Ultimately, despite their differing top housing materials, the fundamental choice of polycarbonate for the Aliaz's bottom and the Silent Sakura's bottom allows for some similarities in the tactile experience. A user pressing down on the Aliaz will enjoy the sharper feedback, while the Silent Sakura will deliver a softer and fuller sound at bottom-out, resulting from the unique combination of its nylon top housing and polycarbonate bottom. Therefore, while the upper and lower differing materials contribute distinct audio profiles, the overall typing experience can still evoke similar mechanical sensations due to the commonality of polycarbonate on the bottom, presenting versatile options for enthusiasts based on personal auditory preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, significant differences arise in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Aliaz switch boasts an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, categorizing it as a heavier option that provides a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g features a much lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter feel for longer typing sessions or extended gaming. This stark difference means that users of the Aliaz might find their fingers feeling more fatigued after prolonged use, while the lighter Silent Sakura can facilitate easier, faster typing without as much effort. Ultimately, those seeking a heavier, more tactile experience should lean towards the Aliaz, while users who value a lightweight and effortless keystroke will benefit from the Silent Sakura.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch share the same travel distance of 4 mm, indicating that users will experience similar keypress results when using either switch. This equal travel distance means that both switches provide a consistent feel and responsiveness, making them comparable for users who prioritize a uniform typing experience. Since they both have the same distance, your keystrokes will feel equally satisfying, whether you choose the Aliaz or the Silent Sakura.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The HMX Silent Sakura - 43g comes in at $3.50 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
When considering the sound profile of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch, it is characterized by a muted quality that produces a softer and quieter sound compared to traditional mechanical switches. This makes the Aliaz particularly suitable for environments where noise reduction is vital, such as in shared or office spaces. In contrast, while the Silent Sakura - 43g has been engineered to create a whisper-quiet experience reminiscent of raindrops, specific sound attributes are not defined. However, this aligns with the goal of minimizing sound output, suggesting that both switches cater well to users seeking a less intrusive typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Aliaz offers a silky and polished typing experience, ensuring smooth key travel with minimal resistance. This is complemented by its medium-heavy weight, which provides a solid feedback during typing. The tactile nature of the switch allows for a pronounced yet subdued sensation, ideal for users who enjoy feedback without excessive noise. On the other hand, while there are no specific descriptors for the feel of the Silent Sakura - 43g switch, its ultra-light 43g actuation may appeal to typists who prefer a lighter touch. Although the tactile feedback might not be as pronounced as that of the Aliaz, the design suggests a smooth and comfortable typing experience is also a goal for this switch.
In summary, both the Gateron Aliaz and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g aim to provide a quiet and pleasant keyboard experience, each catering to different preferences in weight and tactile feedback. While the Aliaz is more geared towards users who appreciate a robust and smooth tactile experience, the Silent Sakura focuses on providing a lighter touch for those who prefer a feather-light keystroke. Both switches would be suitable for those looking to minimize noise while typing, with the Aliaz offering a more pronounced feedback and the Silent Sakura catering to a lighter, subtle feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and environment. If you’re working in a quiet office or any setting where minimizing noise is essential, the Aliaz switches would be an excellent option. With a heavier bottom-out force of 75 grams, they provide a substantial and tactile feel that many typists appreciate. The silky and polished texture enhances the smoothness of each keypress, giving you a satisfying typing experience without the intrusive sounds typically associated with mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, if you're a light typist or someone who enjoys a more delicate touch while maintaining a serene ambiance, the Silent Sakura - 43g switches could be better suited for you. Their ultra-light 43g bottom-out force allows for effortless key presses, making it easier to type for extended periods without fatigue, all while delivering a virtually silent operation. In summary, consider the environment you’ll be in and how much feedback you desire from your typing experience when deciding between these two excellent switch options.
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