Gateron CM vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 53g
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM 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, options abound, but two standouts in the linear category are the Gateron CM and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g. The Gateron CM switches break away from traditional design with their full nylon housing, producing a richer and deeper sound profile that resonates with typists seeking a more immersive experience. Their impeccable factory lube job and dual-staged spring offer a notably smooth and bouncy typing feel, often described as buttery and thocky, making them ideal for those who revel in a tactile yet fluid keystroke. On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g is engineered for silence, creating a whisper-quiet typing experience while still providing a satisfying feel due to its balanced 53g bottom-out force. This makes the Silent Sakura an excellent choice for users who desire a serene workspace without sacrificing responsiveness. Both switches cater to distinct preferences: the CM for those who appreciate depth and sound, and the Silent Sakura for those prioritizing quiet operation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
53g
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 - 53g switches, we find a notable similarity in their top housing. Both switches utilize nylon as their top housing material, which is renowned for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. Consequently, users can expect a similar sound quality when typing with either switch, as the nylon top housing contributes significantly to the overall acoustic warmth and character during key presses.
In contrast, the bottom housing materials of the two switches diverge significantly. The Gateron CM features a nylon bottom housing, maintaining the same sound attributes as its top counterpart. This cohesion allows for a consistent acoustic profile throughout the entire switch, contributing to a cohesive and rounded sound when typing. On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g opts for polycarbonate for its bottom housing, which markedly alters the sound profile. Polycarbonate is a stiffer material, imparting a sharper and crisper sound that contrasts with the softness of nylon. This difference not only changes the auditory experience but also affects how users perceive the overall feel when bottoming out the key.
Ultimately, the combination of nylon top and bottom housing in the Gateron CM results in a more unified sound and feel, reinforcing a smooth typing experience. In comparison, the contrasting nylon top and polycarbonate bottom housing of the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g creates a more complex sound profile, with characteristics splitting between the two materials. While the nylon top provides a warm sound on release, the polycarbonate bottom sharpens the auditory experience during the bottoming out. Thus, while both switches share a similar top housing material, their different bottom housings lead to distinct experiences, emphasizing the importance of housing material in defining the tactile and auditory qualities of mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CM linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Gateron CM features a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, categorized as medium-heavy. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it medium-light. This means that typists or gamers who prefer a more substantial feel may gravitate towards the Gateron CM due to its heavier resistance, which can enhance tactile feedback. Meanwhile, the lighter Sakura switch may appeal to those who favor effortless keystrokes for extended typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. Overall, the Gateron CM is the heavier switch, while the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g is the lighter option, providing distinctly different experiences based on users' preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron CM linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch, it is clear that they differ significantly. The Gateron CM features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the shorter option, while the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is more traditional in feel. This indicates that gamers or users who prefer quicker response times may lean towards the Gateron CM, appreciating its shorter travel distance that can enhance responsiveness. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial keypress experience may find the longer 4 mm travel distance of the Silent Sakura to be more satisfying, offering a deeper and potentially more tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding travel distance and the desired typing experience.
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 - 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
The sound profile of the Gateron CM linear switch is characterized by a deep, bassy quality that evokes a rich and satisfying auditory experience with each keystroke. Its low-pitched, thocky nature ensures that every press emits a resonant thud, enhancing the overall joy of typing. This immersive sound signature is further complemented by the dual-staged spring mechanism, adding a unique layer to its acoustic characteristics. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 53g switch is engineered to provide a whisper-quiet experience, reminiscent of gentle raindrops. While specific descriptions of its sound aren't available, it’s designed to minimize noise, making it an ideal choice for quieter environments where silence is paramount.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gateron CM excels in delivering a buttery, polished typing experience. The factory lube job enhances its smoothness, allowing for a frictionless interaction with each keypress, giving a sensation of gliding seamlessly across the keyboard. Users can expect a creamy tactile sensation as they type, with the lengthened spring providing a bouncy and engaging reply. Unfortunately, there’s limited information available regarding the feel of the Silent Sakura - 53g switches, leaving some qualities of their tactile feedback and overall typing sensation unexamined.
In summary, both the Gateron CM and the Silent Sakura - 53g switches offer distinct typing experiences catering to different preferences. The CM is perfect for those who enjoy a rich auditory feedback and a smooth, luxurious typing feel, making it ideal for those who relish the pleasure of a satisfying keystroke. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura - 53g is tailored for those prioritizing a quiet environment while still craving a balanced and satisfying keystroke. Ultimately, your choice between these switches should consider whether you favor auditory depth or serene silence in your typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron CM linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch ultimately boils down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a more pronounced and rich auditory experience while typing, the CM switch is likely your best bet with its deeper, thocky sound profile and a heavier bottom-out force of 63.5 grams that provides a bouncy yet satisfying keystroke. This makes them an excellent option for those who seek both tactile feedback and an engaging sound experience as you type or game. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter, more subdued typing environment—perhaps for a shared workspace or during late-night sessions—the Silent Sakura switch is tailored for you, with its whisper-quiet operation and lighter 53-gram bottom-out force. This allows for a gentle typing experience that is not only satisfying but also discreet, making it ideal for those who prioritize silence without compromising on smoothness. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you crave a richer auditory sensation with a medium-heavy feel or a light and silent typing experience.
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