United States: Free shipping on orders over $49

Gazzew LT vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 43g

An in-depth look at the Gazzew LT and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Gazzew LT and HMX Silent Sakura - 43g represent two distinct yet appealing options for different typing preferences. The Gazzew LT, celebrated for its striking lilac hue and renowned for producing a delightfully deep, resonant thock with each keystroke, is perfect for those who appreciate a tactile feedback and an auditory experience while typing. This switch is categorized as 'Bassy', 'Thocky', and 'Low-pitched', making it an excellent choice for gamers and typists who enjoy a more pronounced sound profile. On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g shines with its ultra-light actuation force and whisper-quiet performance, reminiscent of gentle raindrops. Designed for users who desire a serene typing experience without disturbing others, these switches cater specifically to light typists. Both switches have unique characteristics that cater to various needs, whether you prioritize sound and feedback or quietness and subtlety. 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

N/A

Actuation force

37g

Bottom-out force

65g

Bottom-out force

43g

Pre-travel

N/A

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Total travel

3.20 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 Gazzew blend

Top housing material

Nylon

Bottom housing material

Proprietary Gazzew blend

Bottom housing material

Polycarbonate

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Spring

Stainless steel Korean spring

Spring

22mm extended single-staged spring

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gazzew LT and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g, the distinctions primarily lie in the properties of the top and bottom housings, which contribute to the overall auditory experience during use. The Gazzew LT features a proprietary blend referred to as "boba plastic" for both the top and bottom housings. This material is known for its softness, which fosters a rich and deep sound profile that emphasizes a warm auditory experience. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g utilizes nylon for its top housing, a classic switch material that also enhances the sound with a deeper and rounder quality due to its sound-absorbing characteristics. Thus, both switches share a tendency towards a softer and fuller sound due to their respective top housing materials, even if they use different materials.

However, the bottom housing of the two switches sets them apart significantly in terms of sound projection. The Gazzew LT continues with its proprietary boba plastic for the bottom housing, maintaining the same rich sound profile characterized by warmth and depth. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura - 43g employs a polycarbonate bottom housing, which is known for its rigidity and translucence. This material allows for a sharper and crisper sound that resonates more clearly compared to the depths of warmth produced by softer plastics. This means that while the Gazzew LT may provide a more rounded sound experience due to both housings sharing similar soft plastic qualities, the Silent Sakura - 43g, with its combination of nylon and polycarbonate, delivers a distinct auditory experience with a more defined sharper note.

In terms of practical implications for typists and gamers, the differences in housing materials affect the overall typing experience, specifically in how sound profiles manifest during use. With the Gazzew LT, users can expect a consistently warm and rich sound when bottoming out, as both hosing materials share similar softness and acoustic properties. Conversely, the Silent Sakura - 43g presents a nuanced typing experience; while the top nylon housing contributes to a fuller sound, the polycarbonate bottom housing injects clarity and brightness into the auditory profile. Thus, while similar sound profiles can be achieved with both switches due to their top housings, the bottom housings of each product ensure that users will experience varied sonorous outcomes when engaged with each switch, ultimately affecting their tactile preference and sound enjoyment.

Weight

When comparing the Gazzew LT linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, there is a noticeable difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Gazzew LT has an unspecified actuation force, but it does have a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g offers a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams. This makes the Silent Sakura switch significantly lighter overall, appealing to users who favor a softer touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. The heavier Gazzew LT, on the other hand, provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a firmer feedback with a stronger push feel. Thus, while both serve their purposes, the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference in typing dynamics: the LT for those who enjoy heavier resistance, and the Silent Sakura for users seeking a lighter touch.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Gazzew LT linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, it is evident that they cater to different preferences. The Gazzew LT boasts a travel distance of 3.2 mm, making it the shorter option, while the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is longer and more traditional. Gamers might gravitate towards the Gazzew LT, as its shorter travel distance may facilitate quicker response times, ideal for fast-paced gameplay. Conversely, users who prefer a more tactile experience may find the greater depth of the Silent Sakura more satisfying, as it provides a more substantial feel with each keystroke. In essence, your choice between these switches will depend on whether you value speed and responsiveness or a more pronounced key press sensation.

Price comparison

Which switch is more bang for your buck?

For 10 switches, the Gazzew LT comes in at $6.50, whereas the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g comes in at $3.50.

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 Gazzew LT linear switch delivers a captivating auditory experience characterized by its deep, rich thockiness. Users can expect a bassy, low-pitched sound that resonates with every keystroke, offering a satisfying acoustic feedback that enhances the overall typing experience. This thocky quality gives the LT a distinct personality, making each press feel substantial and gratifying. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g switch prioritizes a whisper-quiet typing experience. With its delicate sound profile, akin to gentle raindrops, the Silent Sakura is designed to create minimal noise when typing, catering to those who prefer a more serene and unobtrusive environment. Although the LT may fulfill a desire for satisfying auditory feedback, the Silent Sakura choices prioritize stealth and tranquility.

In terms of feel, the Gazzew LT linear switch is celebrated for providing a seamless and smooth typing experience. Each keystroke transitions effortlessly, ensuring that typists can glide through their tasks with fluidity and ease. However, the specific tactile feedback or resistance associated with the LT is not explicitly described, leaving some mystery about how it compares to other switches. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura - 43g is known for its ultra-light bottom-out force of 43g, making it exceptionally easy to actuate. This lightness caters particularly to typists who favor a feather-light touch and may find traditional heavier switches cumbersome. Like the Gazzew LT, the feel may also depend on factors such as the keyboard design and keycap material, which influence the overall experience.

In summary, typists can expect notably different sound profiles and feels from the Gazzew LT and Silent Sakura - 43g switches. The LT boasts a thocky, satisfying sound and a smooth typing experience that appeals to those who enjoy auditory feedback. Conversely, the Silent Sakura focuses on quietness and an ultra-light touch, making it ideal for those who prioritize a serene typing environment. Depending on your personal preference, both options can deliver enjoyable results, whether you seek a more substantial auditory experience or a whisper-quiet typing sensation.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Gazzew LT linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch largely depends on your typing preferences and environment. If you enjoy a more robust typing experience with a satisfying audible feedback, the Gazzew LT would be your ideal choice. Its heavier actuation force of 65 grams and distinct thocky sound profile not only provide a tactile satisfaction but also create a compelling auditory experience, making it an excellent fit for those who appreciate a more traditional and vibrant keyboard sound. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quieter typing environment or have a more delicate typing style, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g should be at the top of your list. With its notably lighter actuation force of 43 grams, it allows for quick and effortless keystrokes, making it perfect for light typists or those who work in shared or noise-sensitive spaces. In essence, choose the Gazzew LT for a more pronounced and engaging typing experience, while the Silent Sakura - 43g will serve you well for a serene and unobtrusive typing atmosphere.

Mentioned in this article