TTC Iron vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 53g
An in-depth look at the TTC Iron and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for your typing needs, the TTC Iron and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g offer unique experiences tailored for different preferences. The TTC Iron is celebrated for its distinct clacky sound signature, providing an engaging auditory feedback that many enthusiasts relish. This linear switch not only boasts a remarkably light actuation, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions without fatigue, but it also features a smooth travel that enhances both precision and pleasure with each keystroke. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g excels in delivering a whisper-quiet experience, reminiscent of raindrops, perfect for those who need to maintain a peaceful environment. With its balanced 53g bottom-out force, this switch offers a light yet satisfying feel, appealing to users who prioritize stealth during their typing tasks. Each switch has its own merits—whether you desire a lively sound or a serene typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
41g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the TTC Iron and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g, we find notable differences that contribute distinctly to their respective sound profiles. The Iron employs a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing, which is recognized for producing a deep, muted sound that typifies a more subtle and refined auditory experience. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 53g features a nylon top housing, a classic material known for its ability to absorb sound effectively. This characteristic enables nylon to create a fuller and rounder sound profile, which also leans towards a deeper tone. While both materials help achieve a deeper sound, the muted quality of the POM top finds its distinctiveness in its more contained sound, whereas nylon's absorbent attributes may lead to a richer auditory experience.
The bottom housing materials of the two switches showcase a stark contrast that further influences their performance. The TTC Iron utilizes a POM bottom housing, similar in sound profile to its top counterpart, which contributes to its muted characteristics and overall cohesive sound. Conversely, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g employs a polycarbonate bottom housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound that is crisper and more resonant. Polycarbonate's rigidity and translucence can result in a clearer sound presence, particularly when paired with RGB lighting. Consequently, this contrast between the POM and polycarbonate materials implies a more dynamic interaction within the Silent Sakura - 53g switch, as the sound is affected both by the absorption characteristics of the nylon top and the resonant properties of the polycarbonate bottom.
Ultimately, the differences in housing materials between the TTC Iron and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g will lead to unique tactile and auditory experiences, despite both aiming for a deeper sound profile. The POM material in the Iron promotes a cohesive, muted sound throughout both the top and bottom housings, while the pairing of nylon and polycarbonate in the Silent Sakura - 53g allows for a more layered sound experience, with distinct characteristics attributed to each component. Nevertheless, enthusiasts focusing on achieving a pleasurable typing experience will find that both switches, through their individual housing materials, arrive at a similarly satisfying result—an engaging sound profile for any mechanical keyboard user, albeit through different auditory pathways.
Weight
The TTC Iron linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch offer distinct tactile experiences when it comes to actuation and bottom out forces. The TTC Iron features a lighter actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it easier to press down and ideal for extended typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, offering a bit more resistance which some users may find enhances the typing experience by providing a more substantial feel. While both switches have different weights, they cater to different preferences: the Iron is more suited for those who prefer a lighter touch, while the Sakura may appeal to users who enjoy a stronger push feel. Overall, if you're looking for a lighter switch, the TTC Iron is your best choice, whereas the HMX Silent Sakura provides a medium-light option for a more balanced experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Iron linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch, we see a notable difference: the TTC Iron has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g features a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Iron switch is the shorter option, making it potentially more responsive for users who favor quick reactions, particularly in gaming scenarios. In contrast, the Silent Sakura switch, with its longer travel distance, may offer a more substantial feel that some users prefer for a deeper typing experience. Ultimately, if you prioritize quick, tactile feedback, the shorter TTC Iron is the way to go, while those who enjoy a more pronounced keypress might lean towards the HMX Silent Sakura.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Iron has an MSRP of $5.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iron for $4.30.
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
In terms of sound, the TTC Iron linear switch produces a distinctly clacky auditory signature that delivers a sharp and percussive sound with each keystroke. This crisp and bright sound enhances the user experience, providing a satisfying auditory feedback that many typists and gamers enjoy. Conversely, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switch is engineered for a whisper-quiet operation, creating a serene typing environment reminiscent of gentle raindrops. This stark contrast makes the Iron more suitable for those who appreciate an engaging and pronounced sound, while the Silent Sakura caters to users seeking discretion and noise reduction in shared spaces. Both sound experiences are subject to variation based on the keyboard's build and the choice of keycaps, but their innate qualities are distinctly different.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Iron excels with its easy-to-press design, allowing for effortless gameplay or typing without adding unnecessary strain on the fingers. The gentle resistance and light actuation force promote comfort, making long typing sessions less fatiguing. Additionally, it provides a smooth travel that adds to the overall enjoyment of the typing experience. Meanwhile, the Silent Sakura - 53g switch offers a balanced bottom-out force, designed to provide a satisfying keystroke without the need for excessive pressure, accommodating typists who prefer a softer touch while still ensuring comfortable feedback. While both switches accommodate a light and enjoyable typing experience, the Iron tends to favor those who appreciate a more tactile response.
In conclusion, the TTC Iron linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch present two very different auditory and tactile experiences. The Iron thrives on its pronounced clacky sound and easy-to-press feel, making it an appealing choice for users seeking auditory feedback along with smooth keystrokes. In contrast, the Silent Sakura prioritizes a quiet operation and a balanced actuation that caters to those who want to minimize noise without sacrificing comfort. Both switches ultimately aim to enhance the typing experience, but their characteristics will suit different preferences based on one’s typing habits and environment.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the TTC Iron linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and environment. If you enjoy a light touch with a tactile and aural experience, the TTC Iron is an excellent option. Its clacky sound and effortless key presses make it ideal for vibrant typing sessions that can be both enjoyable and engaging—perfect for enthusiasts and casual users alike. In contrast, if you prioritize a quieter, smoother typing experience for environments where noise is a concern, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g is the superior choice. With its slightly heavier bottom-out force, this switch provides a satisfying yet understated keystroke that captures the essence of tranquility, akin to raindrops falling gently on a window. Thus, consider the presence of your usage environment and your personal typing style to make your decision. Whether you lean towards the dynamic sound of the Iron or the silent elegance of the Sakura, both switches offer unique benefits tailored to enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
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