HMX Cloud - 50g vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 53g
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 50g and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the advantages of various options. The HMX Cloud - 50g is celebrated for its clacky sound profile, offering a brighter typing experience that many find invigorating. With a lighter actuation force of 50g, this switch is ideal for those who value a silky smooth feel while typing and enjoy the engaging auditory feedback. On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g caters to those who prioritize a quieter environment. Designed to produce a soft, muted sound reminiscent of raindrops tapping against a window, the Silent Sakura offers a slightly firmer bottom-out force at 53g, appealing to typists who prefer a light yet satisfying keystroke without the distractions of noise. Each switch brings its unique characteristics to the table—whether it’s the energetic sound of the Cloud or the serene silence of the 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
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Nylon
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-staged spring
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 50g and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g, notable similarities and differences emerge that significantly influence the overall typing experience. Both switches feature a nylon top housing, which is celebrated for its ability to absorb sound and produce a deeper, fuller sound profile. This characteristic is beneficial for both switches as it allows for a rounded and pleasant auditory experience while typing, which can minimize harshness in sound. Users can expect a consistently rich audio performance from both models based on this commonality in material, as the nylon effectively dampens higher frequencies, resulting in a softer typing sound consistent across these designs.
The differences between the two switches are especially pronounced in their bottom housing materials. The Cloud - 50g integrates a nylon bottom housing, contributing to the overall warm sound profile the switch offers. This uniformity across both housings—where both the top and bottom are nylon—ensures a cohesive auditory experience that is smooth and harmonious, maintaining the deeply resonant acoustic signature. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 53g opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing. This choice introduces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile during typing. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate allows for a more pronounced and resonant sound, particularly during bottom-out situations. Thus, while both switches feature the mellow properties of nylon at the top, the distinct properties of their bottom materials create differing sonic textures when engaged, making the Silent Sakura more suitable for users who prefer a snappier feel and sound.
In summary, while the top housings of both the HMX Cloud - 50g and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g offer similar benefits thanks to their nylon composition, the disparity in bottom housing materials leads to unique typing experiences. The nylon in the Cloud's bottom effectively continues the smooth, warm sound profile established by its top housing, while the polycarbonate bottom in the Silent Sakura delivers a sharper auditory feedback that can cater to those seeking a more dynamic response. Thus, choosing between the two ultimately depends on the user’s preference for sound and feedback characteristics—whether one prefers the mellowness of nylon throughout or a combination of nylon and polycarbonate's contrasting clarity.
Weight
The HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch both cater to different user preferences in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Cloud - 50g features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for extended typing sessions and gaming due to its lower resistance, which can promote less finger fatigue. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 53g has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, appealing to users who prefer a bit more resistance, providing a more substantial typing experience. Overall, while both switches offer good options for linear preferences, the Cloud switch is the lighter option, and the Silent Sakura is the heavier choice. If a user seeks a balance between weight and force, they may find similarities in the tactile feedback during use, despite the differences in actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch, we see a slight difference: the Cloud switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Silent Sakura measures at 4 mm. This makes the Cloud switch the shorter option, appealing to gamers who prefer quicker response times due to its reduced travel distance. In contrast, the Silent Sakura, with its longer 4 mm travel distance, may provide a more satisfying tactile experience for users who enjoy a deeper keystroke. Ultimately, those who favor a more responsive feel may opt for the Cloud, whereas those who appreciate greater depth in their key presses might choose the Silent Sakura.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cloud - 50g has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cloud - 50g for $2.99.
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
In terms of sound, the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch delivers a pleasurable clacky sound profile, engaging enthusiasts who appreciate a bright and expressive auditory experience while typing. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch is designed to provide a whisper-quiet typing experience, reminiscent of gentle raindrops. The difference in their sound characteristics makes the Cloud a more resonant option favored for its lively auditory feedback, while the Silent Sakura caters to those who prefer a serene environment and want to minimize distractions.
When it comes to feel, both switches offer a silky smooth typing experience. The Cloud - 50g, with a lighter actuation force of 50g, allows for a slightly quicker response, which can benefit users who enjoy rapid typing. Meanwhile, the Silent Sakura - 53g features a balanced actuation force of 53g, which offers a satisfying weight without being cumbersome. Though both switches provide a smooth keystroke, the differences in actuation force might influence your preference depending on your typing speed and style.
Overall, choosing between the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch comes down to personal preference regarding sound and weight. If you favor a lively clacky sound, the Cloud switch is your best bet, while the Silent Sakura is ideal for those who wish for a quieter experience without compromising smoothness. Both switches promise a satisfying feel, so you can expect a similar tactile experience regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing environment. If you enjoy a bright, clacky sound profile and a silky smooth feel while typing, the Cloud - 50g is the ideal choice for you. Its lighter actuation force at 50 grams makes it perfect for rapid keystrokes, which is particularly beneficial for gaming or fast-paced typing scenarios. On the other hand, if you value a quieter typing experience without sacrificing the tactile satisfaction of a keystroke, the Silent Sakura - 53g is your go-to switch. This switch, with its medium-light bottom out force, provides a more subdued sound akin to rain tapping on a window, making it suitable for office environments or shared spaces where noise can be a concern. In summary, your decision should hinge on whether you prefer a lively typing experience with the Cloud - 50g or a serene, whisper-quiet feel with the Silent Sakura - 53g.
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