Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 43g
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g both present unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Ink Black V2 is celebrated for its smooth downstroke coupled with a rich auditory feedback, making it a beloved choice among enthusiasts who appreciate a more tactile experience with a low-pitched and bassy sound profile. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g is designed for those who prefer a quieter typing experience, offering a whisper-soft touch that emulates the tranquil sound of raindrops, making it ideal for quiet environments or shared spaces. With its ultra-light actuation force, the Silent Sakura is particularly suited for light typists who desire serenity while typing. Each switch brings its own advantages, whether you yearn for the gratifying clack of the Ink Black V2 or the hushed elegance of the 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches exhibit significant differences, particularly in their sound profiles. The Ink Black V2 employs a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housing, which contributes to a pointed and high-pitched sound characterized as clacky. This consistent material choice allows for a uniform auditory experience when typing, where the higher frequency tones are prominent throughout. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura utilizes nylon for its top housing, which is known for its softer and more absorbent properties. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile that contrasts sharply with the Ink Black V2’s crisper tones. Therefore, while the Ink Black V2 offers a more pronounced clack, the Silent Sakura provides a muted and rounded auditory experience.
On the bottom side of the switches, the Gateron Ink Black V2 maintains its proprietary INK blend, mirroring the sound characteristics of its top housing, thus reinforcing the clacky sound profile. In contrast, the Silent Sakura utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing, producing a sharper and more resonant sound. Polycarbonate is a stiffer material, which lends itself to a clearer auditory experience, especially during typographical engagement. This results in a fundamental difference between the two switches concerning the bottoming-out sound; the Ink Black V2’s sound is more synergistic and cohesive, while the Silent Sakura’s polycarbonate bottom provides a starker resonance. Thus, while the two switches can be differentiated by their materials, they each deliver a unique auditory sensation that caters to different typing preferences.
Ultimately, the disparity in housing materials between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g results in distinct auditory experiences when typing. Each switch's top housing plays a critical role in the sound produced during key release, while the bottom housing significantly influences the sound upon key bottoming-out. By combining different materials, Gateron and HMX create switches tailored to specific sound profiles—one inclined toward a higher-pitched, clacky sound, and the other toward a muted, rounded tone. While the switches share the function of actuation in a keyboard, the tactile and auditory experiences diverge due to the different sound qualities of the housing materials involved. Thus, those seeking a clacky typing experience may gravitate toward the Ink Black V2, while those desiring a quieter and fuller sound may prefer the Silent Sakura - 43g.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switches, there is a notable difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Ink Black V2 features a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g has a much lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, catering to users who appreciate a softer touch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. Consequently, individuals seeking a lighter feel will be drawn to the Silent Sakura, while those preferring a heavier switch should opt for the Ink Black V2. Overall, the clear distinction in weight between the two switches suggests that users can expect very different tactile experiences depending on their choice.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch share the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key, users will experience identical key travel from the top to the bottom, resulting in a similar tactile feedback and overall typing experience. Because both switches have an equal travel distance, users looking for a consistent experience between the two will likely find them to perform similarly in terms of key feel and actuation depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Black V2 has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Black V2 for $7.24.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is notable for its low-pitched acoustic profile, providing a rich, bassy timbre that feels satisfying during use. This switch also has a chirpy quality, adding a unique character to its sound that can enhance the typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g is designed to deliver a whisper-quiet typing experience, aiming for a soft ambience reminiscent of raindrops. While the exact sound profile of the Silent Sakura is not specified, its primary goal is to minimize noise, making it suitable for environments where discretion is paramount. Therefore, while the Ink Black V2 offers a more pronounced auditory experience, the Silent Sakura prioritizes quietness.
Regarding feel, the Ink Black V2 offers a mild and polished experience, making it approachable for various typing styles. Its smooth key travel, attributed to either the high-quality materials used or factory lubrication, contributes to a highly pleasant typing experience that promotes speed and comfort. The Silent Sakura - 43g, however, does not have specified descriptors for its feel, leaving its tactile characteristics unknown. This lack of information makes it difficult to directly compare the two in terms of their physical feedback, but the Ink Black V2 clearly positions itself as a refined option for typists seeking smoothness.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch provides a rich auditory experience paired with a smooth, polished feel, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy both sound and touch in their typing. The HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switch, while offering a serene and quiet typing experience, lacks detailed descriptions of its tactile feel and sound profile. Ultimately, if you prioritize a rich auditory experience, the Ink Black V2 is likely your best bet, while the Silent Sakura caters to those who seek a more subdued environment. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, either switch could meet your mechanical keyboard needs, though their characteristics distinctly cater to different typing environments.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches, it’s essential to consider your typing style and environment. If you prefer a heavier feel with a bottom-out force of 70 grams and enjoy the satisfaction of a deep, rich sound combined with a smooth action, the Ink Black V2 is likely a great choice for you. Its mild yet polished characteristics make it an excellent option for users who appreciate a classic linear switch, especially if you don’t mind a little acoustic feedback. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quiet typing experience with a lighter touch, the Silent Sakura - 43g will suit you better. With its 43g bottom-out force, it caters to light typists seeking a serene environment, ideal for shared spaces or late-night sessions. Ultimately, the choice depends on whether you value tactile feedback and sound, or silence and subtlety in your typing experience.
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