HMX Blue Topaz vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 53g
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the contrasting characteristics of the HMX Blue Topaz and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g offer unique options for different typing experiences. The HMX Blue Topaz is celebrated for its super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, allowing for effortless keystrokes that make typing enjoyable. Its glittery housing not only catches the eye but also provides a clacky sound signature, adding an auditory delight that can enhance the overall typing experience for users who appreciate feedback from their keystrokes. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g focuses on delivering a serene and subtle typing experience, designed for those who seek a quieter environment. With its balanced 53g bottom-out force, it offers a light yet satisfying keystroke, perfect for typists who prefer to avoid distraction while still enjoying a responsive feel. Both switches cater to distinct preferences: the Blue Topaz for those who value auditory feedback and visual appeal, and the Silent Sakura for users prioritizing tranquility and comfort. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
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 housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g, we see a distinct contrast in the types of plastics used for the top housings. The Blue Topaz features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its rigidity and translucency, contributing to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This stiffness allows the sound to resonate more crisply, making it an ideal choice for those who favor a clear auditory feedback when typing. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 53g utilizes a nylon top housing, a material recognized for its softer characteristics, which results in a deeper and fuller sound. The absorbing nature of nylon means that it dampens the sound more than polycarbonate, leading to a more muted and rounder auditory experience when a key is released. This fundamental difference in material composition significantly influences the overall sound signature of each switch.
Examining the bottom housings reveals a complete flip in material choices, with the Blue Topaz employing nylon for its bottom housing, while the Silent Sakura - 53g uses polycarbonate. The nylon bottom housing in the Blue Topaz retains the deeper sound profile established by its soft texture, further enhancing the bottom-out feel and sound when keys are pressed. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura - 53g’s polycarbonate bottom housing, with its rigid design, produces a sharper and more resonant sound upon bottoming out. The contrasting materials in the bottom housings also leave distinct fingerprints on the tactile response, highlighting how different plastics can modify the feedback users experience while typing.
Ultimately, the unique combination of materials in both switches means users will experience different sound profiles and typing feels. This is particularly relevant because the interaction between the plastic in both the top and bottom housings determines the overall auditory and tactile feedback of the switch. For those who appreciate the deeper, rounder sound of nylon, the Silent Sakura - 53g would be preferable, while fans of a higher-pitched and crisper response might gravitate towards the Blue Topaz. Nevertheless, despite the material differences, users can achieve satisfactory results with either switch, depending on their preferences for sound and tactile feedback, as the varied housing materials share the role of shaping the overall experience in distinct yet significant ways.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch, we see notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces that cater to different preferences. The Blue Topaz has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it suitable for users who favor a softer touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 53g has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, offering a firmer typing experience. This means that for those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing, the Silent Sakura would be the better option. Therefore, while both switches serve specific user inclinations, the Blue Topaz is the lighter choice, whereas the Silent Sakura is the heavier one, allowing individuals to select based on their typing preferences and comfort.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch feature different travel distances, which can significantly influence user experience. The Blue Topaz has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Silent Sakura measures slightly longer at 4 mm. This makes the Blue Topaz the shorter option, providing a quicker response time that might appeal to gamers seeking fast actuation. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura's longer travel distance allows for a more substantial and satisfying keypress, which some users might prefer for a more tactile feel. Ultimately, if you value speed and responsiveness, the HMX Blue Topaz may be the better choice; however, if you appreciate a more pronounced keystroke, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g is likely to be more suitable.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Blue Topaz has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Blue Topaz for $3.49.
The HMX Silent Sakura - 53g 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 it comes to sound, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch stands out with its distinctive clacky sound signature. This means that every keystroke produces a sharp, crisp, and bright auditory feedback, reminiscent of classic mechanical keyboard sounds that many users find satisfying. The sonic quality of the Blue Topaz enhances the overall typing experience, attracting those who appreciate an acoustic aspect in their setup. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switch is engineered for a whisper-quiet experience, aiming to provide a more subdued auditory presence akin to gentle raindrops. This makes it ideal for environments where noise levels must be kept to a minimum, ensuring an unobtrusive typing experience.
In terms of feel, the HMX Blue Topaz excels with its easy-to-press nature. The lightweight actuation means that users can type with minimal finger fatigue, allowing for prolonged typing sessions without discomfort. Its super smooth actuation is designed to enhance responsiveness, making every keystroke feel effortless. On the other hand, specific details about the feel of the Silent Sakura - 53g switches are not provided, but it is also designed to offer a satisfying keystroke, tailored for those who prefer a light touch, similar to the effortless press of the Blue Topaz.
Considering all the available information, the HMX Blue Topaz offers an engaging auditory and tactile experience that many typists find pleasurable, especially those who enjoy a bit of auditory feedback. Meanwhile, the Silent Sakura - 53g switch prioritizes a quiet typing experience without sacrificing the overall satisfaction of the keystroke. Each switch caters to different preferences; choosing between them will ultimately hinge on individual priorities regarding sound and the nuances of the typing feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch ultimately depends on your specific preferences and use cases. If you enjoy a light and effortless keystroke coupled with a clacky sound profile that adds character to your typing experience, the Blue Topaz is an excellent choice. It's particularly well-suited for casual typing and gaming, where the engaging auditory feedback can enhance your overall enjoyment. On the other hand, if you prioritize a whisper-quiet environment—perhaps for an office setting or when you’re gaming late at night—the Silent Sakura - 53g will be your best bet. With its medium-light bottom out force and smooth action, it strikes a balance that still feels satisfying without the disruptive noise. Ultimately, consider what aspects are most important to you—whether it's sound, feel, or application—and choose accordingly for the best mechanical keyboard experience.
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