Gateron CM vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 43g
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to the world of mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can significantly influence your typing experience, and two contenders worth considering are the Gateron CM and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g, both of which belong to the linear switch family. The Gateron CM stands out with its innovative full nylon housing, offering a richer sound signature complemented by a meticulously executed factory lube job, resulting in an impressively smooth and bouncy feel during each keystroke. Ideal for users who enjoy a more tactile and responsive typing experience, this switch is known for its low-pitched, creamy sound profile that feels luxurious. On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g delivers its own unique benefits, prioritizing a whisper-quiet environment with its ultra-light 43g bottom-out force, making it an excellent option for those who value discretion while typing, such as in shared workspaces or quiet home settings. While the Gateron CM caters to users seeking an engaging and dynamic feel, the Silent Sakura is perfect for light typists who prefer a serene experience. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
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
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CM and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches, it becomes clear that while both share the same nylon top housing, they diverge significantly in their bottom housing materials. Both switches utilize nylon for their top housings, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon helps absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a more muted and rounded auditory experience. This similarity in top housing means that users can expect comparable acoustics during actuation, regardless of which switch they choose, offering a pleasant and consistent sound when pressing down on the keys.
On the other hand, the bottom housing reveals a stark contrast between these two switches. The Gateron CM employs a nylon bottom housing, which continues the theme established by its top housing, resulting in a cohesive auditory experience characterized by a duller quality. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing, a material recognized for its rigidity and ability to produce a crisper, higher-pitched sound. This choice not only alters the auditory profile but also impacts the tactile feedback of the switches during key releases. The difference in bottom housing materials creates a unique separation of sound characteristics; users might notice that the bottom-out sound of the CM is softer and more rounded, while the Silent Sakura provides a more resonant tone.
Ultimately, the variation in housing materials results in a distinct typing experience between the Gateron CM and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g. With nylon used in both the top and bottom housings of the CM, the overall sound remains smoother and deeper throughout the keystroke. Conversely, the Silent Sakura switch's combination of nylon and polycarbonate leads to a more complex sound profile, where the nylon top maintains some depth, while the polycarbonate bottom injects clarity and brightness. For enthusiasts who value specific sound and feel characteristics, these differences are crucial, but those who appreciate the softer, muted tones of nylon may find both switches appealing in their own right, achieving a certain level of satisfaction with either choice.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CM linear switch with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams to the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switch, which features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, a clear distinction in weight preferences emerges. The Gateron CM, categorized as medium-heavy, provides a more substantial feel, which may appeal to those who enjoy a firmer typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g, being lighter, is ideal for users seeking a switch that enables longer typing sessions with less finger fatigue. Consequently, typists and gamers who prefer lighter switches will find the Silent Sakura more accommodating, while those who appreciate a stronger push may favor the Gateron CM. Ultimately, if you're looking for a heavier switch, the Gateron CM is the better choice, whereas the HMX Silent Sakura offers a lighter alternative for comfort during extended usage.
Travel distance
The Gateron CM linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch differ in their travel distances, with the Gateron CM sporting a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Silent Sakura - 43g has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Gateron CM provides a more responsive and shorter keystroke, which can be advantageous for gamers seeking quick response times. Conversely, the longer 4 mm travel distance of the Silent Sakura switch may offer a more satisfying, deeper feel for those who prefer a less abrupt typing experience. Ultimately, if you value short travel for speed, the Gateron CM would be the better choice, while the Silent Sakura - 43g would be preferable for a more traditional and hearty depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CM has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CM for $4.25.
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 CM switches deliver a deep and resonant auditory experience, characterized by their bassy and thocky qualities. The full nylon housing contributes to a richer, low-pitched tone that can evoke the satisfying "thud" associated with each key press. This sound profile adds a layer of tactile enjoyment to the typing experience, making the CM switches popular among enthusiasts who appreciate auditory feedback. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches are engineered for quiet operation, aiming to provide a typing experience that is almost silent, akin to gentle raindrops. While the CM's sound is prominent and engaging, the Silent Sakura prioritizes discretion, making it suitable for environments where noise reduction is crucial.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CM switches excel with their buttery, polished, and creamy characteristics, resulting in a supremely smooth and pleasurable typing sensation. The factory lube and specially designed dual-staged spring create a fluidity that enhances the typing experience, allowing fingers to glide effortlessly over the keys. The experience is further enriched by the reduced friction, making for an almost frictionless keystroke that typists find rewarding. On the other hand, the feel of the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches is less defined, as no specific tactile qualities are provided. However, given their ultra-light bottom-out force, it can be inferred that they offer a light and perhaps more agile typing experience, ideal for those who favor a soft touch.
In conclusion, both the Gateron CM switches and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches provide distinct typing experiences tailored to different preferences. The Gateron CM stands out with its rich sound signature and buttery smooth tactile feel, appealing to those who enjoy a dynamic auditory and physical feedback while typing. Conversely, the Silent Sakura emphasizes silence and lightness, catering to users who prioritize a peaceful, unobtrusive typing experience. While both switches have their unique attributes, selecting between them will ultimately depend on whether sound, feel, or a combination of both plays a critical role in your typing satisfaction.
Conclusion
To sum up, your choice between the Gateron CM linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch will largely depend on your typing preferences and environment. If you prefer a deeper, richer sound profile and enjoy a slightly heavier keystroke, the Gateron CM switches will likely suit you better. These switches excel in delivering a smooth, buttery typing experience, accentuated by their distinct bassy and thocky characteristics, which can enhance your overall typing enjoyment, especially in a home or personal workspace where sound is less of a concern. However, if you're looking for a quieter, more subtle switch—perhaps because you work in a shared space or simply prefer a serene typing environment—the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g will be your ideal choice. Their lightweight 43g actuation force offers a gentle typing feel, making them perfect for those who favor a lighter touch without sacrificing smoothness. Ultimately, your decision should center around your specific needs—whether you desire the tactile richness of the CM or the whisper-quiet elegance of the Silent Sakura.
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