Gateron Ink Red vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 43g
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red 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, two popular options are the Gateron Ink Red and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g, both of which are linear switches prized for their distinct characteristics. The Gateron Ink Red is renowned for its smooth and satisfying feel, making it an excellent choice for typists who prefer a lighter touch. With a lower actuation force, this switch allows for a fluid typing experience, and its crispy, clacky sound profile adds an engaging auditory element to each keystroke. On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g shines in environments where noise is a concern, providing a whisper-quiet typing experience that evokes images of raindrops gently falling. With an ultra-light bottom-out force of 43g, it's perfect for users seeking a serene and subtle typing environment. Both switches cater to different preferences: the Ink Red emphasizes a tactile, lively experience, while the Silent Sakura prioritizes silence and tranquility. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g, it becomes evident that their construction influences the overall sound characteristics and tactile experience of each switch. The Ink Red employs a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, which is noted for producing a pointed and high-pitched sound profile. This distinct trait results in a satisfying clack that many users find appealing, particularly when typing. In contrast, the Silent Sakura utilizes a nylon top housing, which is a classic choice known for its ability to create a deeper, fuller sound profile. The soft nature of nylon absorbs sound, leading to a duller and rounder auditory experience when compared to the sharper tones of the Ink Red.
The differences continue at the bottom housing, where the Ink Red features an INK blend that complements its top with a similarly pointed sound profile, ensuring a consistent clack across the switch. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing. This material is recognized for producing a sharper and crisper sound, thanks to its stiffness and clarity. The translucency of polycarbonate also adds aesthetic appeal, making it a preferred choice for RGB lighting setups. While both switches generate distinctive sound profiles, the materials used in their bottom housings create contrasting auditory experiences, affecting the overall bottom-out sound and feel during key presses.
Ultimately, while the Gateron Ink Red and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g differ significantly in their housing materials, a user can still achieve similar typing experiences depending on their preferences. The Ink Red, with its high-pitched clack and consistency across both housings, is ideal for those seeking an engaging auditory feedback, while the Silent Sakura offers a quieter and fuller sound through its unique nylon and polycarbonate combination. Regardless of the material differences, both switches provide a satisfying tactile feedback that meets the needs of various typing styles, allowing users to tailor their experience to their individual tastes, whether they prioritize sound or feel.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, it’s evident that they offer different typing experiences due to their force specifications. The Ink Red switch has a higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a heavier option. In contrast, the Silent Sakura switch features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams. This difference means that, while the Ink Red may provide a more substantial feel that some users prefer for a satisfying tactile experience, the Silent Sakura is better suited for those looking for a lighter touch, which can facilitate longer typing sessions or extended gaming. Overall, with the Gateron Ink Red being the heavier of the two and the HMX Silent Sakura being the lighter, users can choose based on their preference for either a stronger push or a more effortless keystroke.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on either switch, users will experience an identical distance from the top to the bottom. As a result, users can expect similar typing experiences with both switches in terms of travel distance, leading to a consistent feel and response when activating keys on a keyboard equipped with either option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Red 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 Red for $7.35.
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 Gateron Ink Red linear switch is characterized by a crispy and clacky tone, providing a lively auditory feedback that can be appealing to typists who enjoy a more pronounced acoustic experience. The appeal of the Ink Red lies in its chirpy undertones, which add a distinctive character to each keystroke. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g has been engineered with sound dampening in mind, aiming for a whisper-quiet typing experience. It offers a soft, subdued sound reminiscent of gentle raindrops, making it an excellent choice for those who operate in quiet environments or appreciate a more serene typing atmosphere.
In terms of feel, the Ink Red switches shine with their silky smoothness and polished design. This results in an effortless typing experience with minimal resistance and friction during key presses, enhancing the overall enjoyment and fluidity of typing. Furthermore, the accompanying mild characteristics of the Ink Red ensure a balanced experience that is approachable for most users. Conversely, the feel of the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g is not specified, so it is unclear how it compares to the Ink Red in smoothness or tactile engagement.
Overall, while both switches serve different purposes, they cater to distinct preferences in sound and feel. The Gateron Ink Red is perfect for those looking for an engaging experience with a bit of auditory character, while the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g is ideal for those who prioritize quietness and a gentle typing experience. If you're torn between the two, consider your typing environment and how important sound and key feel are to your overall satisfaction.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and environment. If you prefer a medium bottom-out force and enjoy a slightly crisper sound with a smooth and polished feel, the Ink Red is your best bet. It caters well to a variety of typists, whether you’re a beginner or seasoned user, making it an excellent choice for everyday use at home or in the office. On the other hand, if you prioritize a whisper-quiet typing experience and lighter actuation, the Silent Sakura - 43g is designed for you. With its ultra-light force and serene typing feedback, it’s ideal for those seeking minimal distraction in quiet environments, like libraries or shared workspaces. Ultimately, consider what aspects of typing are most crucial for you—sound, feel, or force—and let that guide your decision between these two appealing switches.
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