Gateron Luciola vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 43g
An in-depth look at the Gateron Luciola and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Luciola and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g present two distinct options for enthusiasts, both offering unique characteristics that appeal to different typing preferences. The Gateron Luciola not only captivates with its aesthetic charm—glowing in the dark—but also provides a medium heft and a smooth, bouncy typing experience, producing a distinctive sound reminiscent of a shaken spray paint can, which can enhance the tactile engagement for users who enjoy auditory feedback. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g prioritizes a quieter operation with its ultra-light 43g bottom-out force, making it an excellent choice for those who require a serene typing environment, such as late-night workers or shared office spaces. Each switch serves a unique purpose: the Luciola is ideal for users seeking a lively, interactive typing experience, while the Silent Sakura caters to those who value discretion and comfort. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
22mm double-staged long spring; black-plated
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Luciola and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches exhibit notable differences in their housing materials, which significantly influence their acoustic profiles. The Luciola's proprietary INK blend top housing produces a distinctive high-pitched sound that is often described as clacky. This makes it appealing for users who enjoy a sound that cuts through ambient noise, enriching the auditory experience of typing. In contrast, the Silent Sakura's nylon top housing results in a deeper, fuller sound profile, muted and softer due to the material's inherent properties. While both switches can deliver satisfying auditory feedback, the Luciola leans towards a sharper resonance, while the Silent Sakura offers a rounded experience.
Examining the bottom housings reveals further disparities. The Luciola features the same proprietary INK blend as its top housing, reinforcing its characteristic high-pitched clack, while the Silent Sakura uses polycarbonate in its bottom housing. Polycarbonate is known for its crispness, contributing to clear and resonant bottom-out sounds. Therefore, the Silent Sakura's usage of polycarbonate in combination with its nylon top housing creates a unique contrast in sound: the deeper tones emphasized in the upper range juxtapose against the sharper qualities from the polycarbonate below. As a result, the interactions of both materials create distinct acoustic signatures that will affect the feel and sound produced during typing.
Despite the variations in material, the impact of these differences can be averaged in specific settings to achieve a comparable typing experience. Users who favor the clackiness of the Gateron Luciola can find a similar experience with the Silent Sakura by altering typing techniques or utilizing specific keycap profiles that enhance or dampen sound. Both switches have unique auditory identities shaped by their housing materials, yet both tap into a rich auditory experience that can lead to satisfying results under the right conditions. Thus, while their individual characteristics offer distinct qualities, the overall typing sensation can be manipulated to align more closely when tailored appropriately, allowing users to transition smoothly between the two.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, distinct differences in weight and feel emerge. The Luciola has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, placing it in a medium range that offers a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g is notably lighter, featuring an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it easier to press and ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions. Therefore, those who prefer a lighter touch and less finger fatigue will find the Silent Sakura better suited to their needs. Conversely, users who appreciate a stronger push feel will gravitate towards the Luciola. Ultimately, these differences highlight that the Luciola is the heavier option and the Silent Sakura is the lighter one, catering to varying user preferences for typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, there is a notable difference in their travel distances. The Luciola has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the shorter of the two, while the Silent Sakura boasts a travel distance of 4 mm, positioning it as the longer switch. This difference in travel distance suggests that users who favor responsiveness may prefer the Luciola for its shorter actuation, which could facilitate quicker key presses, particularly in gaming scenarios. On the other hand, the longer 4 mm distance of the Silent Sakura might appeal to those who appreciate a more substantial feel when typing, providing a deeper actuation that can enhance the overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches hinges on personal preference regarding the tactile feedback and responsiveness desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Luciola has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Luciola for $6.50.
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
When comparing the sound profiles of the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, it becomes evident that they reside on opposite ends of the auditory spectrum. The Luciola produces a unique combination of clacky, chirpy, and marbly sounds characterized by a lively and resonant quality, reminiscent of a can of spray paint being shaken. This makes for a distinct and energetic typing experience that appeals to those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback with their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura - 43g is crafted for a completely different auditory experience, promoting a whisper-quiet typing environment. While specific descriptors for its sound profile were not provided, the intention is to evoke an ultra-quiet sensation akin to gentle raindrops, making it suitable for users who prefer a more subtle acoustic footprint.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Luciola stands out with its medium heft and offers a smooth, bouncy typing experience. It's characterized by snappiness, buttery fluidity, and a polished keystroke that combines responsiveness with a seamless and refined typing sensation. This makes it enjoyable for those who appreciate tactile feedback and effortless key travel. The Silent Sakura - 43g, however, lacks specific descriptions of its feel, leaving its tactile qualities somewhat unknown. Given its ultra-light 43g bottom-out force, it is designed for light typists, suggesting that it may provide a different typing experience that prioritizes gentle and soft keystrokes, likely favoring a more delicate touch.
In conclusion, the Gateron Luciola and HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switches each offer distinctive auditory and tactile experiences tailored to different preferences. The Luciola excels with its engaging sound profile and smooth, responsive feel, making it suitable for users who enjoy vibrant feedback. Conversely, the Silent Sakura - 43g aims for a serene and quiet typing experience, appealing to those who value discretion in their keystrokes. While sound and feel can be subjective, choosing between these options ultimately hinges on individual typing preferences and the desired keyboard atmosphere.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, consider your typing environment and personal preferences. If you enjoy a more tactile and responsive experience, coupled with a visually striking appearance due to the Luciola's glow-in-the-dark design, then the Luciola is an excellent choice. Its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams offers a satisfying resistance, ideal for those who prefer a more substantial feel while typing. The distinctive sound profile, characterized by clacky and high-pitched tones, makes it suitable for users who value auditory feedback during their keystrokes. On the other hand, if you prioritize quietness and a lightweight touch, the Silent Sakura - 43g is a superb option. Its whisper-quiet operation and low 43-gram bottom-out force make it perfect for environments where minimal noise is essential, such as shared workspaces or late-night typing sessions. Therefore, if you want a serene and subtle typing experience that feels effortless, the Silent Sakura will serve you well. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your typing style, sound preference, and the environment in which you plan to use your keyboard.
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