TTC Flame Red vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 43g

Overview

When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice between the TTC Flame Red and HMX Silent Sakura - 43g can significantly impact your typing experience. The Flame Red switch stands out not only for its performance but also for its impressive aesthetic, featuring a dazzling light diffuser that complements backlit RGB keyboards beautifully. Users appreciate its weighty smoothness and a pleasant clacky sound profile, making it an ideal option for those who enjoy a more tactile and audible feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura - 43g switch offers a drastically different experience with its ultra-light 43g bottom-out force, catering to light typists who prioritize a whisper-quiet typing environment. This switch's engineering is designed to create a serene atmosphere, reminiscent of soft raindrops, making it perfect for shared spaces or late-night work. While both switches are linear and offer unique advantages, the decision ultimately comes down to personal preference between the visually striking and sonically engaging Flame Red and the subtly silent and feather-light 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

TTC Flame Red Linear

HMX Silent Sakura - 43g Linear

$7.29

$4.38 per 10

$3.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches, it is evident that both share a common top housing material—nylon. This shared choice contributes to a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile, as nylon is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs some sound, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory characteristic when typing, which can be particularly appealing to users seeking a more muted acoustic environment. Whether utilizing the Flame Red or the Silent Sakura - 43g, users can expect a pleasant and consistent sound quality from the top housing, enhancing the overall typing experience.

However, a notable contrast arises in the bottom housing materials of the two switches. The TTC Flame Red utilizes nylon for its bottom housing as well, which means that the sound profile will remain consistent across both top and bottom housing—resulting in a cohesive and smooth typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which inherently has different acoustic properties. This stiffer plastic contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thereby altering the overall experience during keypresses. While the top housing of both switches promotes a similar sound, the switch in bottom housing materials leads to a fundamental difference in sound production when the key is bottomed out.

Overall, this divergence in materials showcases how housing choices affect the auditory and tactile feedback of mechanical switches. The TTC Flame Red’s dual nylon construction promotes a unified sound profile, while the Silent Sakura - 43g distinguishes itself with a blend of nylon and polycarbonate that enhances clarity and resonance. Users looking for a fuller sound may prefer the Flame Red's consistent nylon construction, while those who enjoy a sharper auditory experience may find the Silent Sakura - 43g more to their liking. Ultimately, understanding these differences helps in selecting the switch that best aligns with one’s typing preferences, ensuring a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.

Weight

When comparing the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Flame Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g is lighter, boasting an actuation force of only 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams. This lighter weight of the Silent Sakura may appeal to typists seeking a less strenuous experience during prolonged use, while the heftier Flame Red could provide a more substantial feel for those who prefer a stronger push. As such, users may find the TTC Flame Red more suitable for a robust typing experience, whereas the HMX Silent Sakura is ideal for those who desire a lighter touch. Overall, the Silent Sakura is the lighter option, while the Flame Red stands as the heavier choice.

Travel distance

The TTC Flame Red linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch both feature an identical travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that users will experience the same feeling when pressing down on a key with either switch. This similarity in travel distance ensures that both switches provide a comparable typing experience, allowing for smooth actuation and a consistent tactile response. As such, if you're seeking a switch that delivers a uniform depth of travel while enjoying different characteristics like feel or sound, you can confidently choose either the Flame Red or the Silent Sakura, knowing you will achieve similar results in terms of travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When considering the sound profile, the TTC Flame Red linear switch provides a moderate auditory experience. It features a clacky sound that is neither overly loud nor too quiet, making it a versatile choice suitable for various environments, whether for work or home use. This neutral sound profile ensures that users can type comfortably without disturbing those around them. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g is designed specifically for a quieter typing experience. While specific descriptions of its sound profile were not provided, the switch is engineered to create a sound akin to gentle raindrops, promising a dampened auditory feedback that caters to users who seek serenity in their typing environment. Ultimately, if achieving a quiet operation is a priority, the Silent Sakura is the clear choice.

In terms of feel, the Flame Red exemplifies a gentle yet polished typing experience. Its mild characteristics mean that it offers an approachable experience for all typists. The switch's smoothness further enhances the typing sensation, which is a product of either high-quality materials or factory lubing, ensuring that key travel is consistent and enjoyable. On the other hand, the specific characteristics of the Silent Sakura’s feel were not elaborated upon, leaving an unknown regarding its tactile experience. However, given its ultra-light actuation force of 43g, it is likely that the feel will lean towards a lighter, perhaps very smooth typing sensation, making it suitable for users looking for minimal resistance during keystrokes.

In conclusion, the TTC Flame Red linear switch shines with its balance of sound and feel, making it a great choice for a wide range of typists who enjoy both auditory feedback and a polished typing experience. The HMX Silent Sakura - 43g, however, stands out for those who prioritize a quieter typing atmosphere, potentially compromising on the auditory pleasures that come with the Flame Reds. While both switches cater to different preferences, selecting between them will ultimately depend on whether one values a more vibrant sound and polished feel or a serene, minimalistic typing environment.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal typing preferences and environment. If you enjoy a more engaging typing experience with a slightly heavier feel, the Flame Red is an excellent option, particularly for RGB setups, thanks to its visually stunning light diffuser. The slightly clacky sound profile and mild, polished feel can enhance typing enjoyment, making it ideal for both casual typing and gaming. On the other hand, if you're after a quieter, more subdued typing environment, the Silent Sakura - 43g is your best bet. With its ultra-light 43g bottom-out force, it offers a delicate touch that caters to light typists or those working in shared spaces where noise is a concern. Its serene typing experience, reminiscent of gentle raindrops, will satisfy users who prefer a peaceful atmosphere. In summary, choose the Flame Red for an enhanced tactile and auditory experience, and opt for the Silent Sakura when silence and subtlety are paramount.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Flame Red Linear

$7.29

$4.38 per 10

Learn more

HMX Silent Sakura - 43g Linear

$3.50 per 10

Learn more