Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 53g
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, switch choice plays a pivotal role in determining your overall typing experience. The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro is a tactile switch that stands out with its delightful sound profile and satisfying tactile bump, making it a coveted option for those who enjoy a responsive feel as they type. Its bouncy and snappy characteristics cater well to enthusiasts who appreciate an engaging connection with their keyboard. On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch offers a completely different experience, focusing on a whisper-quiet operation while maintaining a balanced 53g bottom-out force. This makes it ideal for users who value a serene typing environment or work in shared spaces, as the Silent Sakura resembles the soft patter of raindrops, creating a calming atmosphere. While both switches offer unique advantages depending on your typing preferences and environment, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g, a stark contrast emerges between the materials used for the top housings. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro utilizes polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic that contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This choice emphasizes clarity and resonance, making it particularly beneficial for those who appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback during typing. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate complements RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic experience of keyboard use. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 53g features a nylon top housing, which is renowned for its ability to produce a deeper, fuller sound due to nylon’s softer nature. This results in a rounder sound that absorbs more acoustic energy, thus creating a type of auditory experience that many typists find satisfying and immersive.
Examining the bottom housings of these switches reveals a reversal of material choices, further influencing their overall sound profiles. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro's nylon bottom housing similarly supports the deeper, fuller sound profile typically associated with nylon, effectively absorbing sound vibrations and leading to a cushioned bottom-out experience. Conversely, the Silent Sakura - 53g employs a polycarbonate bottom housing, introducing the sharper and crisper qualities associated with polycarbonate. Thus, while the top housings differ significantly, their bottom housings complement each other, ensuring that each switch brings unique sound qualities to the experience, depending on which end is engaged.
Ultimately, the combined results of the materials used in the V3 Lavender Purple Pro and HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches manifest in a distinct typing experience. Those who prioritize a clear and resonant auditory feedback will lean towards the polycarbonate-rich V3 Lavender Purple Pro, while those who prefer a deeper, more subdued sound may gravitate towards the nylon in the Silent Sakura - 53g. However, despite these differences, if one desires to achieve a more balanced or neutral typing experience, it is possible to combine switches to get a somewhat similar auditory feedback, utilizing the strengths of each material depending on the context in which they are used. Thus, both switches, while fundamentally different, cater to a range of preferences, offering a spectrum of sound profiles to typists.
Weight
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch offer similar actuation forces, both requiring 45 grams to trigger a keystroke, which makes them an appealing choice for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, their bottom out forces differ slightly; the V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the Silent Sakura bottoms out at 53 grams. This makes the V3 switch marginally heavier, providing a slightly more substantial feel upon bottoming out. Overall, both switches present a medium-light weight, but those seeking a more defined push experience may lean towards the Akko switch due to its higher bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch, we see a clear difference. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Silent Sakura - 53g features a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Lavender Purple Pro offers a more responsive feel, appealing to those who prefer quicker keypresses, especially useful for gaming. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura's deeper travel distance may provide a stronger tactile feedback that some users find more satisfying. Therefore, if you prefer a more immediate response, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro would be the better choice, while those who enjoy a more pronounced keypress might opt for the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g due to its longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Lavender Purple Pro for $2.20.
The HMX Silent Sakura - 53g has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Sakura - 53g for $2.99.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch, it becomes clear that they cater to different auditory preferences. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro is characterized by a higher-pitched sound profile, which provides an engaging auditory feedback during typing. This sound is not only pleasant but also creates a lively atmosphere, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura - 53g is designed for quiet operation, producing a whisper-soft sound akin to gentle raindrops tapping against a window. This makes it ideal for environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum, such as shared workspaces or at home during late-night typing sessions. The choice between these two switches largely depends on whether a typist prefers a more pronounced auditory stimulus or a silent experience.
Regarding feel, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro boasts a variety of tactile qualities that contribute to a satisfying typing sensation. It is described as accented, providing a prominent but not overwhelming tactile bump, making every keystroke engaging without being too harsh. This switch also offers a bouncy feel, giving a spring-like response that enhances the lively experience of typing. Additionally, its snappy nature allows for quick responsiveness, while a polished finish ensures smooth key travel with reduced friction. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 53g has not been characterized in terms of feel; hence, its tactile response remains uncertain. Nevertheless, given that it is a linear switch, it is expected to offer a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke without the tactile bump present in the Lavender Purple Pro.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch both offer distinct experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The former is ideal for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience paired with a higher-pitched sound, while the latter is suited for those who prioritize a whisper-quiet operation. Ultimately, selecting between these switches will depend on one’s personal preference for sound and feel, so newcomers should consider their typing environment and style when making a decision.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch, consider your personal preferences and typing environment. If you thrive on a lively and responsive typing experience, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro might be the ideal choice for you. Its medium-light actuation force of 55 grams, coupled with its delightful tactile bump and bouncy feel, can enhance your typing speed and enjoyment, especially in a setup where you appreciate both sound and feedback. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quiet workspace or often type during hours when noise is a concern, the Silent Sakura - 53g switch is your go-to option. With its whisper-quiet operation and lightly tactile keystroke, it allows for a serene typing experience ideal for long sessions without disturbing those around you. Ultimately, consider not only the other features and characteristics of each switch but also your work habits and environment, as either can significantly enhance your keyboard experience based on your specific needs.
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