HMX Lucky vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 43g
An in-depth look at the HMX Lucky and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Lucky and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g each offer unique advantages that cater to different typing preferences. The HMX Lucky, with its softer and glittery nylon housings, provides a neutral and satisfying typing experience, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a tactile yet smooth keystroke. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g is engineered for a whisper-quiet performance, simulating the gentle sound of raindrops, which is ideal for users who crave a serene and distraction-free environment while typing. While both switches are linear and designed for comfort, the Lucky stands out for its delightful feedback and aesthetic appeal, whereas the Silent Sakura focuses on minimizing noise, thus appealing to quieter workspaces. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
The HMX Lucky and HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches share a commonality in their top housing material, both made from nylon. This similarity is significant because nylon is known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing, thanks to its softer plastic properties. The cushioning effect of nylon helps absorb sound, leading to a more subdued and rounded auditory experience. Users of both switches can expect a rich, less jarring sound when key presses are executed, highlighting the effectiveness of nylon in enhancing the overall auditory experience in switches.
In contrast, the bottom housing of these two switches diverges significantly. The Lucky features a nylon bottom housing, which, like its top counterpart, contributes to a deeper sound profile. Its softer texture further complements the overall sound experience by dampening the impact sounds associated with bottoming out. Conversely, the Silent Sakura - 43g utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, known for its stiffer nature, which accordingly introduces a sharper and more resonant sound profile. This distinction is crucial because the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and typing feedback, creating a contrast in tactile sensations between the two switches.
As the typing experience is shaped by both top and bottom housing materials, the differences in the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and HMX Lucky manifest when it comes to the overall sound and feel. While both switches will produce a warm and rich sound profile owing to the nylon top housing, the differentiation arises when a key is fully pressed down. The Silent Sakura - 43g, with its polycarbonate bottom, provides a clearer and crisper sound upon bottoming out, whereas the Lucky maintains a full-bodied sound owing to its complete nylon construction. Users looking for a balance between softer key presses and sharper feedback will appreciate the nuanced audio experience each switch provides, reflective of the materials chosen for both the top and bottom housings.
Weight
The HMX Lucky linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch both have the same actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, giving them similar performance characteristics. This makes both switches relatively light, catering well to users who prefer a softer touch for longer typing sessions or extended gaming. Since both switches feature equal actuation and bottom out forces, users can expect a similar typing experience regardless of their choice between the two. Those who favor a lighter switch will find both options appealing, providing the benefit of reduced finger fatigue over prolonged use. Ultimately, since both switches have the same specifications, users can confidently select either option based on other preferences, like sound dampening in the case of the Silent Sakura.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lucky linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, we see a distinct difference in their specifications. The HMX Lucky boasts a travel distance of 3.8 mm, whereas the HMX Silent Sakura extends slightly further at 4.0 mm. This makes the Lucky the shorter option, favoring those who prefer more rapid actuation, which can enhance responsiveness—an aspect that gamers often seek. In contrast, the Silent Sakura, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to users who appreciate a more pronounced depth in their keystrokes, offering a less abrupt typing experience. Consequently, if you are looking for quicker response times, the HMX Lucky would be the ideal choice, while the HMX Silent Sakura may be more suited for those who prefer a fuller sensation during use.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Lucky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lucky for $2.99.
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
The HMX Lucky linear switch offers a neutral typing sound that is generally unintrusive, leaving it open to interpretation based on the specific keyboard setup and keycap materials used. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switch is designed for a whisper-quiet experience, with sounds akin to gentle raindrops, making it particularly suitable for environments where noise is a concern. Ultimately, if you use these switches on similar boards with comparable keycap profiles, you can expect to achieve a similar level of sound isolation and comfort.
When it comes to feel, the Lucky switch features softer nylon housings that contribute to a deeply satisfying typing experience, lending it a slight tactile quality that enhances user engagement. The Silent Sakura - 43g switch is engineered specifically for a light typing experience, emphasizing a softer bottom-out force, making it ideal for users who prefer a more delicate touch and less resistance in their keystrokes. Both switches provide smooth linear action but cater to different preferences in terms of force sensitivity and feedback during typing.
In conclusion, both the HMX Lucky and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switches provide distinct yet satisfying experiences tailored to specific user needs. While the Lucky leans towards a neutral sound profile with a mildly engaging feel, the Silent Sakura prioritizes quiet operation and a feather-light touch. Understanding these variances can guide you in selecting the switch that best complements your typing style and environmental requirements.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the HMX Lucky linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch ultimately boils down to your personal typing preferences and your environment. If you appreciate a neutral and satisfying typing experience with a touch of personality—thanks to the glittery nylon housing—the Lucky switch may be your ideal choice. This switch suits typists who value a light yet responsive feel and don't mind a bit of sound, making it fitting for home office setups or during creative sessions where a lively keyboard feedback enhances your workflow. On the other hand, if you require a quieter typing experience, perhaps for late-night work or in shared spaces, the Silent Sakura - 43g is specifically engineered to provide just that. Its gentle, almost soundless operation mimics the soothing sound of raindrops, making it perfect for those in need of a serene typing environment. In the end, your choice will rest on whether you prioritize the engaging feedback of the Lucky or the tranquil silence of the Silent Sakura—each switch delivers a distinctly satisfying experience tailored to your needs.
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