Gateron Ink Yellow vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 53g

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Yellow and HMX Silent Sakura - 53g stand out as two distinctive linear options, each appealing to different types of users. The Ink Yellow is celebrated for its shorter travel, providing a typing experience that strikes a balance between the familiarity of a laptop keyboard and the tactile feedback of a mechanical one. Users who appreciate a smooth yet slightly clacky feel may find this switch particularly enjoyable for both typing and gaming, as it offers a mild and polished response. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g is engineered for a serene typing experience, reminiscent of raindrops, making it a perfect choice for individuals who prioritize quiet operation without sacrificing satisfaction. With a balanced bottom-out force of 53g, it caters to typists who desire a lighter keystroke but still crave responsive feedback. Each switch has its unique appeal—whether you prefer the lively and engaging feedback of the Ink Yellow or the tranquil silence of the Silent Sakura. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide which switch is right for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Yellow Linear

HMX Silent Sakura - 53g Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

$3.50 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Yellow and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches, it becomes evident that each switch utilizes distinct material compositions, leading to varied auditory experiences. The Ink Yellow features a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, which contributes to a high-pitched, clacky sound profile. This characteristic makes the typing experience feel more lively, reflecting sharper acoustics that many users appreciate in a mechanical keyboard. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 53g employs a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. This fundamental difference in housing material results in contrasting sound signatures, with the Ink Yellow offering a crisper sound and the Silent Sakura favoring a rounder, muted tone.

Looking at the bottom housings, the Gateron Ink Yellow again utilizes a proprietary INK blend, consistent with its top housing's tonal quality, reinforcing that clacky profile. In juxtaposition, the Silent Sakura - 53g features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which is recognized for generating a sharper and more resonant sound. The stiffer polycarbonate emphasizes clarity in sound, whereas the softer nature of the INK blend in the Ink Yellow promotes a more nuanced auditory experience. Therefore, the material used in the bottom housing of each switch plays a crucial role in shaping the overall sound and feel during keystrokes, further emphasizing their distinctions.

Despite their differences, there's an interesting aspect to note regarding how these switches feel and sound during operation. If you focus specifically on the bottom-out sound and feel of each switch, both the Ink Yellow and Silent Sakura - 53g can exhibit notable qualities derived from their bottom housings. The Gateron's INK blend may yield a softer yet higher-pitched thud, while the polycarbonate in the Silent Sakura provides a sharper feedback. Ultimately, while their sound profiles differ due to unique materials used in the top and bottom housings, players can still achieve satisfying typing results from both switches. Their individual properties contribute to a rich and layered auditory tapestry that is ultimately subjective to personal preference.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch, a notable difference exists in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Ink Yellow requires an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, positioning it on the medium-heavy side of the scale, which appeals to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 53g has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light option that can be more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions. Consequently, the Gateron Ink Yellow is the heavier switch, while the Silent Sakura is the lighter choice. This difference in actuation forces suggests that users looking for a lighter feel for prolonged use should lean towards the Silent Sakura, while those who enjoy a firmer push may find the Ink Yellow more satisfying.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch, the Ink Yellow measures 3.5 mm, while the Silent Sakura has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This indicates that the Silent Sakura offers a deeper feel when pressed, which may appeal to users who prefer the more tactile experience of a longer travel switch. In contrast, the Ink Yellow's shorter 3.5 mm travel distance could be more suitable for gamers seeking quicker response times, as it allows for faster actuation. Thus, while both switches serve specific needs, the Gateron Ink Yellow provides a more responsive action, and the HMX Silent Sakura caters to those who appreciate a sturdier, more deliberate press.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Ink Yellow switches produce a unique combination of clackiness and neutrality, resulting in a typing experience characterized by a sharp and snappy sound that is both crisp and bright. This makes them a versatile choice for a variety of environments, as the moderate sound profile can blend well in both home and office settings. The Ink Yellow's clacky nature offers a satisfying auditory feedback for typists who appreciate a little extra sound with their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura - 53g switches provide a whisper-quiet typing experience, delivering a soft, subtle sound reminiscent of gentle raindrops. If absolute quietness is your aim, the Silent Sakura excels, making it well-suited for environments where noise is a concern, such as shared workspaces or quiet offices.

When it comes to feel, the Gateron Ink Yellow switches are designed to provide a mild and polished typing experience. The mild characteristic ensures that the typing experience is approachable, allowing both beginners and experienced users to feel comfortable while typing. The polished nature of these switches enhances this experience, resulting in smooth key travel with reduced friction. This smoothness contributes to a refined and engaging feel, making each keystroke effortless. In contrast, details about the specific feel of the Silent Sakura - 53g switches are not provided, meaning one can only make assumptions until more information is available.

In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Yellow and HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches each offer unique advantages based on their sound and feel characteristics. The Ink Yellow combines a clacky sound profile with a polished, mild feel, making it suitable for various environments and typists looking for auditory feedback. Meanwhile, the Silent Sakura delivers a quieter experience, ideal for those who prioritize a serene typing environment. While the feel of the Silent Sakura is less defined, both switches promise smooth operation, suggesting that users looking for similar results in typing experience can consider their individual preferences in sound and feedback to make the right choice.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch should ultimately align with your typing preferences and environment. If you favor a medium-heavy tactile feedback with a bit of clackiness, the Ink Yellow would be an excellent choice, especially if you appreciate a typing experience that feels closer to a laptop but still offers the satisfying sound of classic mechanical keyboards. It's particularly well-suited for gaming or typing for prolonged periods, as its smoothness and moderate travel provide a comfortable balance. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quieter typing experience, the Silent Sakura - 53g switch should be your go-to, especially in shared or noise-sensitive environments. With a lighter bottom out force and a gentle keystroke that evokes the soothing sound of rain, this switch is perfect for those who prefer a more subdued auditory experience. Ultimately, consider your auditory preferences and the weight that feels comfortable to you when making your selection, as both switches offer distinct benefits based on your specific needs and uses.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Yellow Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

Learn more

HMX Silent Sakura - 53g Linear

$3.50 per 10

Learn more