TTC Bluish White vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 43g
An in-depth look at the TTC Bluish White and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice between the TTC Bluish White and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g presents a fascinating study in contrasts. The TTC Bluish White, a tactile switch, is celebrated for its delightfully poppy typing experience, providing a snappy sound profile that resonates with users who enjoy a more pronounced feedback while typing. This switch is ideal for those seeking a buttery yet low-pitched response that ensures a more engaging interaction with their keyboard. On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g is a linear switch designed specifically for a tranquil typing experience, reminiscent of raindrops tapping on a window. With an ultra-light bottom-out force of just 43g, it’s perfect for those who prefer a subdued environment where quiet moments dominate. While both switches offer unique benefits—tactile feedback versus whisper-quiet operation—it's essential to examine their specific characteristics. 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
42g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Bluish White and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g, it's essential to note the distinct characteristics of their respective constructions. The Bluish White utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This stiffer plastic allows for a crisper resonance, making it particularly effective for RGB lighting usage due to its translucent properties. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g features a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer material that absorbs sound. As a result, the two switches offer contrasting auditory experiences based on their top housing materials—one that leans towards brightness and clarity versus one that embraces depth and warmth.
Delving into the bottom housings reveals a further contrast in materials that amplifies their respective sound profiles. The Bluish White is constructed with a nylon bottom housing, maintaining the deeper sound quality attributed to nylon while also benefiting from its ability to absorb some sound. This results in a full-bodied sound experience when typing. Meanwhile, the Silent Sakura - 43g employs polycarbonate for its bottom housing, integrating the crisp and clear characteristics of polycarbonate with the tactile feel of the switch. This combination yields a sharper bottom-out sound, which influences the overall auditory feedback of the switch, creating a unique dichotomy between both models.
Ultimately, while the TTC Bluish White and HMX Silent Sakura - 43g employ different materials for their top and bottom housings, both switches can still yield similar results in terms of sound clarity and typing experience. If one were to mix and match these components—using the polycarbonate top from the Bluish White with the nylon bottom from the Silent Sakura, for instance—the result would be a hybrid switch that retains both the crisp and full sound profiles. This adaptability underscores how switching materials can influence the overall performance of mechanical switches, with the sum of their parts creating a unique typing sensation, whether the experience remains fully consistent with their original configurations or experiences new auditory characteristics through experimentation.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Bluish White tactile switch to the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, we can observe notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Bluish White has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Silent Sakura requires just 37 grams for actuation and has a bottom out force of 43 grams. In this comparison, the Silent Sakura is the lighter option, which may be preferable for users looking for ease during long typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Bluish White's higher actuation and bottom out forces provide a more substantial feel, appealing to those who favor a stronger push sensation. This means that while both switches are relatively light, the Silent Sakura is notably lighter, which could lead to a different typing experience for users. Overall, if you prioritize a lighter switch for prolonged use, the Silent Sakura may be the better choice, whereas the Bluish White caters to those who appreciate a firmer typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, we find a distinct difference between the two. The Bluish White has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Silent Sakura features a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Bluish White the shorter option, ideal for those who prefer more responsive keystrokes, which is often favored by gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura, with its 4 mm travel distance, offers a more traditional feel, which some users may find more satisfying and less abrupt than the shorter switch. Consequently, your choice between the two should be guided by your preference for responsiveness versus a richer typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Bluish White has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bluish White for $4.63.
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 it comes to sound, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch offers a distinctive typing experience characterized by a low-pitched sound profile. This gives it a more resonant and almost bass-heavy tone that can be quite satisfying for typists who enjoy auditory feedback. On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch focuses on creating a whisper-quiet typing environment. While the specific sound characteristics of the Silent Sakura are not described, the intent behind its design is to provide a serene experience, reminiscent of soft raindrops. Hence, if you desire a pronounced auditory experience, the Bluish White would be your go-to, while the Silent Sakura excels in situations where noise reduction is essential.
In terms of feel, the Bluish White switch is a multi-faceted experience. It combines a buttery smoothness with a mild tactile sensation, allowing for a seamless typing action that is both fluid and gentle. The stepped tactile nature means that users experience a clear yet soft tactile bump, making it approachable for all typists. The subtle resistance enhances the typing feel while ensuring it remains comfortable for long periods of use. Unfortunately, the specific feel of the Silent Sakura - 43g is not provided, so a direct comparison on this front remains unknown. However, given its linear design and lighter actuation force of 43g, it likely aims for a smooth and effortless keystroke instead.
In conclusion, both the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch cater to specific preferences that can influence your typing experience. The Bluish White shines with its engaging low-pitched sound and a well-rounded tactile feel, making it suitable for those who enjoy feedback and auditory stimulation. In contrast, the Silent Sakura prioritizes a quiet typing atmosphere, making it a solid choice for environments where noise is a concern. Though their characteristics differ significantly, understanding your personal typing preferences will help you choose the best switch to match your style and needs, resulting in a satisfying and enjoyable keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, your choice between the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the environment in which you’ll be using your keyboard. If you enjoy a tactile typing experience that’s both responsive and satisfying, the Bluish White is likely the better option for you. Its snappy sound profile and buttery feel, combined with a 50-gram bottom-out force, make it an excellent choice for typists who appreciate a more engaging and dynamic interaction with their keyboard. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quieter and more subtle typing experience, particularly in shared or noise-sensitive environments, then the Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch would be ideal. At only 43 grams of bottom-out force, it caters to those who desire a gentle keystroke without the auditory distractions, allowing for seamless and serene typing sessions. Ultimately, your decision should align with whether you value tactile feedback and sound or a smoother and quieter typing experience.
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