Gateron Glory Red vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 53g
An in-depth look at the Gateron Glory Red 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 for your typing preferences, the Gateron Glory Red and HMX Silent Sakura - 53g both present compelling options within the linear switch category. The Glory Red is celebrated for its smooth keystroke and pleasing travel distance, making it an ideal choice for users who enjoy a lightweight and responsive typing experience. Conversely, the Silent Sakura - 53g is engineered for a whisper-quiet experience, effectively reducing noise to a mere whisper while still offering a satisfying 53g bottom-out force that caters to those who appreciate a gentle yet firm keystroke. While both switches excel in delivering a linear and enjoyable typing experience, the choice ultimately hinges on your preference for sound and tactile feedback. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
POK
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
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Glory Red and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g, both switches utilize nylon for their top housing, which contributes to a similar sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for its softer characteristics, which not only provide a deeper and fuller sound but also absorb sound better than harder plastics. Consequently, users can expect a duller and rounder sound when engaging with either switch. This shared top housing material suggests that both switches will produce a comparable auditory response during key releases, establishing a consistent experience for users who value sound quality in their keyboard switches.
In contrast, the bottom housing materials of the two switches reveal distinct differences that influence their overall sound profile and tactile experience. The Gateron Glory Red features a nylon bottom housing, which complements the nylon top by maintaining the same deep and full sound profile from top to bottom. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura - 53g opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing, introducing a sharper and crisper sound profile. This material choice allows for a more pronounced and resonant auditory experience, particularly at the bottom of the keystroke. The nylon bottom of the Glory Red ties directly into the softer feel and sound consistency, while the polycarbonate bottom of the Sakura provides a contrast that could appeal to users seeking a more pronounced typing experience.
Ultimately, the unique combination of housing materials in each switch influences not only the sound profile but the overall tactile feel as well. While both switches exhibit similar sound characteristics from their nylon top housings, the variance in bottom materials introduces different auditory experiences. Typing on a Gateron Glory Red will yield a consistent sound throughout the keystroke, thanks to its uniform nylon construction, while the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g will present a diverse sound profile: a more subdued response when pressing down due to the nylon top and a sharper, more resonant sound upon bottoming out, courtesy of its polycarbonate bottom. Users should consider these differences to align their personal preferences with the desired auditory and tactile experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch, both switches share the same actuation force of 45 grams. This similarity means that users can expect a comparable feel when pressing the switch to initiate a keystroke, making both suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, the Silent Sakura switch has a bottom out force of 53 grams, which indicates a heavier feel when the switch is fully pressed down. In contrast, the bottom out force for the Glory Red is unknown, leaving some uncertainty about the full extent of its resistance upon bottoming out. Consequently, while both switches provide a similar actuation experience, the Silent Sakura switch is the heavier option overall due to its bottom out force, likely appealing to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Glory Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Glory Red a shorter switch compared to the Silent Sakura, appealing to gamers who prioritize speed and responsiveness during gameplay. The shorter travel distance can provide quicker actuation, enhancing performance in fast-paced scenarios. In contrast, the Silent Sakura, with its traditional travel distance of 4 mm, may offer a more satisfying and gradual keypress, catering to users who prefer a more pronounced feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference, as the shorter Gateron Glory Red may be preferable for those seeking rapid response, while the HMX Silent Sakura may be favored by those who appreciate a more substantial depth in their keystrokes.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Glory Red has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glory Red for $4.19.
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
When it comes to sound quality, the Gateron Glory Red switches offer a smooth and unobtrusive auditory experience. While the specifics of their sound profile are not detailed, they are typically perceived as quieter than tactile or clicky switches, contributing to a more serene typing environment. On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches are explicitly designed for minimal noise, delivering a whisper-quiet response that is reminiscent of gentle raindrops tapping against a window. This makes the Silent Sakura an excellent choice for quiet settings, such as shared workspaces or late-night typing sessions. Therefore, while both switches aim for a quieter sound, the Silent Sakura is engineered specifically for silence, which may be more pronounced compared to the subtler sound of the Glory Red.
In terms of feel, the Glory Red switches are celebrated for their smooth keystroke and pleasing travel distance, which collectively promote a more enjoyable typing experience. This smoothness caters well to typists who favor uninterrupted keystrokes, making them ideal for both gaming and typing. Conversely, the Silent Sakura - 53g switches provide a balanced feel with a bottom-out force of 53 grams, appealing to users who prefer a light yet satisfying keystroke. The tactile feedback might differ slightly from the Glory Red, primarily due to the heavier actuation force. Regardless, both switches prioritize smoothness in their operation, which can result in a similarly enjoyable tactile experience, though the weight and feedback could differentiate the two in practice.
In summary, both the Gateron Glory Red and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switches provide a smooth typing experience, but they cater to different preferences, particularly in sound and actuation force. The Glory Red allows for a pleasant, quieter experience, while the Silent Sakura is meticulously crafted for those who prioritize a whisper-quiet environment. Ultimately, the choice between them will hinge on the user’s specific needs regarding sound level and actuation feel, but both switches assure a satisfying and enjoyable typing journey.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between Gateron Glory Red linear switches and HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing environment. If you're looking for a switch that offers a smooth keystroke with a lighter feel and a satisfying travel distance, the Gateron Glory Red is an excellent choice. This switch is particularly suited for fast typists or gamers who prioritize quick keystrokes and a responsive experience without the added noise of tactile feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a more balanced keystroke that still feels light but comes with a bit more resistance, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g might be the right fit for you. These switches are ideal for those who often type in quiet settings or share their workspace with others, as they provide an exceptionally quiet typing experience without sacrificing the quality of each keystroke. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct advantages, so consider your typing style and environment when making your decision.
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