TTC Flaming Pink vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 43g
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Pink and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Flaming Pink and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g offer two distinct experiences that cater to different typing preferences. The Flaming Pink switch is celebrated for its smooth and responsive feel, complemented by a satisfying bottom-out sound that enhances the overall typing experience. With a bright, yet not overly loud sound profile, it's an excellent choice for both gaming enthusiasts and those who use their keyboards for everyday tasks. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura is designed specifically for those who prefer a quieter environment, delivering a whisper-soft typing sensation that evokes the calming sound of raindrops. With an ultra-light 43g bottom-out force, it's ideal for light typists looking for a more serene ambiance while typing. Each switch has its own unique advantages; while the Flaming Pink appeals to users who enjoy a tactile and engaging feel, the Silent Sakura is perfect for individuals prioritizing noise reduction without sacrificing performance. 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
43g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
The TTC Flaming Pink and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches exhibit contrasting housing materials that significantly influence their acoustic and tactile responses. The Flaming Pink features a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper and crisper sound profile. Because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, it contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize brightness in their typing experience. Its transparency also enhances the aesthetics when matched with RGB lighting, highlighting the design's visual appeal. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softness of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder auditory experience, catering to users who prefer a richer sound with less sharpness.
Moreover, the bottom housings of these switches exhibit the opposite materials, further diversifying their acoustic signatures. The TTC Flaming Pink employs a nylon bottom housing that mirrors the top's characteristics associated with nylon, reinforcing the deeper sound profile while absorbing vibrations effectively. Thus, when one bottom-outs on the Flaming Pink, they experience a rounded thud that complements the clearer top. On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing, which introduces a sharper note to the overall auditory experience. The combination results in a heightened contrast in sound between the top and bottom, with the crisper response being more pronounced when typing or releasing keys.
Ultimately, the interplay of different housing materials in these switches illustrates how sound and tactile sensations are intricately designed. For both switches, the characteristics of their materials result in a distinctive typing experience – the TTC Flaming Pink is characterized by a brighter and clearer response, while the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g offers a deeper, more rounded auditory sensation. However, despite the differences in material composition, the end experience can be tailored to individual preferences, enabling users to achieve similar satisfaction depending on their priorities—be it enhanced clarity, lighting aesthetics, or a rich, full-bodied sound.
Weight
The TTC Flaming Pink linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch present interesting contrasts in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Flaming Pink has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Silent Sakura - 43g features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams. This means that the Flaming Pink is the heavier option overall, providing a firmer press that some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the lighter Silent Sakura - 43g can be more comfortable for prolonged use, making it suitable for extended gaming sessions or work environments. Despite both switches being classified as light, the differences in their forces indicate that users may need to choose based on their individual preferences for typing feel and endurance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, we find distinct differences. The Flaming Pink features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Silent Sakura boasts a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns more closely with traditional switch standards. This means that for users who favor quicker key presses and faster response times, the Flaming Pink could be more appealing due to its shorter travel distance. Conversely, those who prefer a more pronounced feel with deeper key presses might find the Silent Sakura's longer 4 mm travel distance more comfortable. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference regarding key response and typing sensation, with the Flaming Pink offering a snappier experience and the Silent Sakura providing a more substantial depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flaming Pink has an MSRP of $4.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Pink for $4.00.
The HMX Silent Sakura - 43g 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 TTC Flaming Pink linear switch is characterized by a bright yet not overly loud quality, providing a pleasant bottom-out sound that enhances the typing experience without being intrusive. This makes it versatile for both gaming and everyday typing. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switch offers a whisper-quiet typing experience, likened to gentle raindrops, making it ideal for environments where noise is a concern. While the Flaming Pink delivers a more traditional auditory feedback, the Silent Sakura excels in its discretion, catering to users who prefer a peaceful typing atmosphere.
When it comes to feel, the Flaming Pink switch is renowned for its smooth and responsive action, ensuring a satisfying typing experience whether you’re gaming or typing lengthy documents. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g features an ultra-light bottom-out force of 43g, appealing to those who prefer a lighter touch and a more subtle response while typing. The Flaming Pink provides a sense of engagement with its pronounced feel, while the Silent Sakura is designed for a gentle and effortless typing experience.
In summary, both the TTC Flaming Pink and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches offer unique typing experiences tailored to different preferences. The Flaming Pink is excellent for users who enjoy a balanced sound and a smooth tactile feel conducive to both gaming and everyday tasks, while the Silent Sakura focuses on a quiet, lightweight experience that minimizes noise disruption. Depending on your needs—be it auditory feedback or a serene typing environment—both switches will provide engaging and enjoyable results, albeit in different ways.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch ultimately comes down to your specific needs and preferences. If you're looking for a switch that offers a smooth and responsive feel with a lively yet balanced sound profile, the Flaming Pink is an excellent choice. Its 50-gram bottom out force provides a satisfying typing experience, making it suitable for both gaming and everyday tasks, where you might appreciate some auditory feedback without being overly distracting. On the other hand, if you prioritize a serene, quiet environment for your typing, the Silent Sakura - 43g is tailor-made for you. With its ultra-light 43-gram bottom out force, this switch ensures a subtle and gentle typing experience ideal for shared spaces or late-night work sessions. Each switch has its unique qualities, so consider your typing style, sound preference, and the environment in which you’ll be using your keyboard to make the best choice for your needs.
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