Gateron CJ vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 43g
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CJ and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g both offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Gateron CJ switch is celebrated for its distinctively high-pitched clacks and an exceptionally smooth keystroke, providing a lively and engaging typing experience. This switch falls into categories such as "Chirpy" and "Thocky," making it ideal for users who enjoy a tactile audio feedback while typing, allowing for a more interactive feel. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g prioritizes silence and subtlety, designed for those who appreciate a whisper-quiet environment reminiscent of gentle raindrops. With its ultra-light actuation force of just 43g, it suits light typists and those who may type for long periods without disturbing others. Each switch serves its niche—whether you crave the acoustic engagement of the CJ or the serene quietude of the Silent Sakura. 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
50g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches, we see a significant contrast between their top housing components. The Gateron CJ features a proprietary INK blend material for its top housing, which is noted for producing a pointed and high-pitched sound profile. This distinctive quality lends itself to a clacky sound that many users find satisfying, especially when typing. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g uses a nylon top housing that generates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon’s softer plastic composition. This absorption of sound is crucial in creating a muted and rounder auditory experience, highlighting the varied sonic characteristics each switch can provide based on the material used.
Another area where these switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Gateron CJ employs a POM bottom housing, renowned for delivering a muted and deeper sound. POM, or polyoxymethylene, contributes to a unique auditory experience that is more subdued, providing a smooth typing feel. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura - 43g showcases a polycarbonate bottom housing, which is typically stiffer and creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound. The clarity of the sound produced by polycarbonate can enhance the tactile feedback of the typing experience, contrasting with the more absorbed sound produced by POM. This disparity in bottom housing characteristics further emphasizes how each switch's design influences its overall acoustic signature.
While the Gateron CJ and the Silent Sakura - 43g utilize fundamentally different materials for their housings, it's interesting to note how these variations impact the tactile and auditory experience. The combination of a high-pitched top housing and a muted bottom housing in the CJ creates a clacky experience overall, while the contrasting materials in the Silent Sakura contribute to a duller yet fuller sound profile. Despite these differences, users can achieve similar results in terms of bottom-out feel and sound by carefully considering how these unique housing characteristics interact when typing. Ultimately, the individual preference for sound profile and tactile feedback will guide users in choosing between these two distinct switch designs.
Weight
Comparing the Gateron CJ linear switch with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams to the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, which features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, reveals a distinct difference in weight and typing experience. The CJ switch, being the heavier option, offers a more substantial feel during typing, making it suitable for users who prefer a stronger push-back and more tactile feedback with each keystroke. In contrast, the Silent Sakura switch caters to those who favor a lighter touch, enabling longer typing sessions or extended gaming without fatigue. While both switches have their specific actuation and bottom out forces, the CJ clearly requires more force to actuate and bottom out than the Silent Sakura. Therefore, individuals seeking a lighter switch for comfort over extended use should opt for the Silent Sakura, while those desiring a heftier feel will gravitate towards the Gateron CJ.
Travel distance
The Gateron CJ linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch both feature a travel distance of 4 mm, indicating that they provide the same experience in terms of key travel from top to bottom. This means that when you press down on either switch, you will feel an identical distance, contributing to a consistent typing experience. Since both switches have an equal travel distance, users can expect similar results in terms of actuation and responsiveness, making either option suitable for those who prefer linear switches with a standard travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CJ has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CJ for $5.35.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron CJ linear switch captivates with its unique acoustic qualities. Users can expect a combination of chirpy and thocky tones, yielding a delightful typing experience that feels both satisfying and engaging. This switch produces higher-pitched clacks along with a deep, rich sound that many find enjoyable. The CJ's sound profile, characterized as neutral and low-pitched, caters to a broad range of environments and typists. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g is engineered for a more subdued approach. It is designed to deliver an exceptionally quiet experience, reminiscent of gentle raindrops, making it ideal for those who prefer a whisper-quiet typing environment. Ultimately, the sound produced by the Silent Sakura may lack the rich character of the CJ, resulting in a typing experience that is peaceful but perhaps less engaging acoustically.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CJ is noted for its remarkably smooth push and mild feedback. The design offers a gentle typing experience that is approachable for all users, making it a reliable choice whether you're typing up documents or gaming. This mild feedback ensures that typists can enjoy a pleasant experience without overwhelming sensations, striking a fine balance. Unfortunately, the feel of the Silent Sakura - 43g is less documented, leaving users without a clear sense of how it compares in tactile feedback. However, given its ultra-light 43g bottom-out force, it is likely that it provides a different tactile sensation, potentially appealing to lighter typists.
In summary, both the Gateron CJ and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g are compelling options but cater to different preferences. The CJ excites with its engaging sound profile and smooth feel, making it a versatile choice for diverse typing activities. Meanwhile, the Silent Sakura appeals to those seeking a serene and quieter experience, although its feel remains less defined. Ultimately, the choice between these switches hinges on individual preferences regarding sound and typing feel, and each switch can deliver a fulfilling experience for different typing styles.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing environment. If you prefer a medium actuation force and a unique auditory experience, the Gateron CJ would be an excellent fit for you. Its higher-pitched clacks and smooth push feel provide a lively typing experience that many enjoy, making it well-suited for a more dynamic setting, whether at work or during casual gaming. On the other hand, if you seek a quieter and lighter typing experience, the Silent Sakura - 43g is designed specifically for you. With its ultra-light bottom-out force of 43g, it allows for a gentler touch and operation in quieter environments, making it ideal if you need to minimize noise, like in shared spaces or while typing late at night. In summary, your decision should hinge on whether you value auditory feedback and a more traditional linear feel or prioritize a serene and subtle typing experience.
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