Gateron Aliaz vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 53g

Overview

When selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often comes down to personal preference and intended use. The Gateron Aliaz switches stand out as an exceptional tactile option, specifically designed for quiet environments such as offices. Their muted operation, combined with a medium-heavy weight, gives typists a satisfying keystroke experience that balances audible feedback with tranquility. This is ideal for those who want to enjoy the tactile sensation of each keystroke without disturbing others. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches cater to users who lean towards a linear experience, offering a whisper-quiet typing feel akin to raindrops gently tapping against a window. With a perfectly balanced 53g bottom-out force, these switches are well-suited for typists searching for a lightweight yet enjoyable keystroke. Both switches have unique attributes that appeal to different typing styles and environments; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Aliaz Tactile

HMX Silent Sakura - 53g Linear

$8.00

$5.50 per 10

$3.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g, a clear distinction is seen in the composition of their top housings. The Gateron Aliaz employs a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer and more resonant nature. This material enhances the overall sound experience, especially when RGB lighting is used, as the clear housing allows for better light transmission. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura features a nylon top housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, leading to a rounder auditory experience. Consequently, the choice of material in the top housing significantly influences the character of the typing sound associated with each switch.

Regarding the bottom housing, both switches utilize polycarbonate, further aligning them in their sound characteristics. The Aliaz, much like the Silent Sakura, benefits from polycarbonate's properties, which contribute to a sharper pitch and clearer sound. The bottom housing is crucial for the bottom-out sound and feel, and here, the polycarbonate material lends itself well to a more resonant experience when a key is fully pressed down. This shared aspect offers a consistent auditory feedback irrespective of the differences in the top housing materials, suggesting that both switches can provide a satisfying bottom-out experience while different in their release characteristics.

In essence, the differing materials in the top housings of the Gateron Aliaz and HMX Silent Sakura - 53g create distinct sound profiles that cater to varied preferences. The sharper pitch of polycarbonate in the Aliaz contrasts with the fuller sound produced by nylon in the Silent Sakura. However, both switches utilize polycarbonate for the bottom housing, ensuring a similar resonant performance on key pressure. Thus, while they provide disparate experiences during key release, the polycarbonate bottom housing helps create a cohesive auditory feedback during all stages of key actuation, resulting in a nuanced but ultimately satisfying typing experience across both switches.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch to the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Aliaz switch features a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, contributing to a more substantial and pronounced typing experience, which may appeal to those who prefer a stronger feel while typing or gaming. In contrast, the Silent Sakura switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it medium-light and potentially offering a more effortless typing experience, ideal for extended use without fatigue. Ultimately, the Aliaz switch is the heavier option, while the Silent Sakura is the lighter one, meaning users have distinct choices depending on their preferences for typing feel and comfort during long sessions.

Travel distance

Both the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch have an identical travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that pressing down on either switch will result in a similar keystroke feel and depth. Because they share the same travel distance, users can expect a comparable experience when typing or gaming, providing consistency in how each key responds to pressure. In this case, those looking for a balanced performance in tactile feedback or linear smoothness can choose either switch without concern for differences in travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Aliaz switches are noted for their muted characteristics, producing a softer and quieter typing experience, ideal for environments where silence is paramount, such as offices. They effectively minimize the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards, ensuring that your typing remains discreet. In contrast, while the sound profile of the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g is not explicitly detailed, it is designed for a whisper-quiet operation reminiscent of light raindrops, suggesting that it also emphasizes a low-noise output. The overall sound experience of both switches ultimately hinges on the synergy with the keyboard frame and keycap materials, so you can expect a similarly subdued auditory response from both options in a suitable context.

In terms of feel, the Aliaz switches excel with their silky and polished tactile sensation, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience that enhances effortless key travel. This level of refinement is likely due to the materials used and possibly some factory lubing, which significantly reduces friction. In comparison, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g has not been described in detail regarding its tactile feedback. However, given their emphasis on providing a satisfying keystroke, it is reasonable to expect a pleasant typing experience, albeit without specific descriptors to clarify the overall feel.

In conclusion, both the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch cater to typists seeking a quiet and streamlined experience. The Aliaz stands out for its muted sound profile and polished smoothness, making it ideal for those in noise-sensitive environments. While the Silent Sakura promises a soft and satisfying touch, its specifics on feel remain unspecified. Overall, if you opt for either switch, you're likely to enjoy a quieter typing experience, particularly suited for office use, while the Aliaz offers a more polished tactile feel.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between Gateron Aliaz tactile switches and HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you find yourself working in a quiet office environment or prefer a heavier tactile feedback while typing, the Aliaz switches will be ideal for you. Their muted sound profile and silky, polished feel provide a satisfying and substantial typing experience that minimizes noise without sacrificing feedback. In contrast, if you’re drawn to a lighter touch and crave a whisper-quiet interaction that almost feels like a serene rainfall, the Silent Sakura switches would be your go-to option. With a medium-light actuation force of 53 grams, they cater to those who favor a swift and smooth keystroke, making them perfect for extended typing sessions or gaming without disturbing those around you. In the final analysis, consider where you'll be using your keyboard and how much feedback you desire for your typing style to make the best choice for your needs.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Aliaz Tactile

$8.00

$5.50 per 10

Learn more

HMX Silent Sakura - 53g Linear

$3.50 per 10

Learn more