HMX Lucky vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 53g
An in-depth look at the HMX Lucky and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Lucky and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g offer distinctive experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The HMX Lucky switches are celebrated for their lightweight, neutral feel and glittery nylon housings, providing a typing experience that feels both soft and deeply satisfying. On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura switches prioritize a whisper-quiet operation, delivering a typing experience akin to gentle raindrops on a window, with a balanced 53g bottom-out force that appeals to those who seek a light yet pleasantly tactile keystroke. Each switch offers unique advantages: the Lucky is ideal for users who prefer a more traditional, plush typing feel, while the Silent Sakura is perfect for office environments or late-night typing sessions where noise reduction is paramount. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
When comparing the HMX Lucky and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g, the first notable similarity lies in their top housing materials; both switches feature nylon, which is recognized as a classic choice in switch construction. The use of nylon in the top housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing, a characteristic that is attributed to its softer plastic composition. This softness allows the nylon to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, thus resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. Consequently, users of both switches can expect a similar sound quality when pressing and releasing keys, as the shared nylon top housing mitigates vibrations and creates a warm typing environment.
In contrast, the bottom housing of these switches diverges significantly in material choice. The HMX Lucky utilizes nylon for its bottom housing as well, maintaining the rich and rounded sound profile that complements the nylon top. However, the Silent Sakura - 53g employs a polycarbonate bottom housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound due to its stiffer composition. This difference in materials means that while the top housings offer a similar acoustic quality, the overall sound experience during bottoming out will be distinct; the Silent Sakura may deliver a crisper sound that contrasts with the softer, more subdued sound of the Lucky's nylon bottom.
As a result of these material differences, the tactile experience of typing on the two switches will also vary, largely influenced by the bottom housing. For the HMX Lucky, the consistency of nylon throughout provides a more uniform experience, with both the top and bottom contributing to a softer auditory result. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura’s polycarbonate bottom inspires a more pronounced sound when keys are fully pressed down, introducing clarity and resonance that can enhance the overall typing feedback. Thus, while the top housings of both switches ensure a similar feel in terms of sound, the combination of materials leads to a rich tapestry of auditory feedback, appealing to different preferences among typists.
Weight
The HMX Lucky linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch present distinct characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out force. The Lucky switch features a relatively light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it an excellent choice for extended typing or gaming sessions where reduced fatigue is a priority. In contrast, the Silent Sakura switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams. This means that the Silent Sakura switch not only requires a firmer press to activate, but also provides more resistance when bottoming out. Consequently, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may favor the Silent Sakura, while those seeking lighter feedback for easier typing should gravitate towards the Lucky. Overall, while both switches have their unique strengths, the Lucky switch is the lighter option, whereas the Silent Sakura - 53g offers a fuller tactile experience for those who appreciate a heavier force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lucky linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch, it becomes evident that the Lucky offers a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Silent Sakura - 53g has a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This means that if you prefer a more responsive typing experience, the HMX Lucky provides a quicker reaction time due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who enjoy a deeper, more substantial feel while typing may find the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g to be a better fit for their preferences. Ultimately, if you're looking for a more traditional experience, the longer travel distance of the Silent Sakura might suit you well, while the Lucky is more aligned with contemporary preferences for shorter distances.
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 - 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 HMX Lucky switch is known for its softer auditory profile, characterized by a muted yet pleasant typing noise that may not draw attention and allows for a more private typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g is engineered for near-silence, producing a sound so subtle that it evokes the serene imagery of gentle raindrops. This makes the Silent Sakura particularly appealing for those seeking to minimize disruption in shared spaces or who simply prefer a quieter environment while typing. Although both switches have their unique sound signatures, the acoustic character will ultimately be influenced by the specific keyboard build and keycap material used.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Lucky switch provides a lightweight experience with a satisfying actuation that many typists find neutral and enjoyable for longer typing sessions. Its softer nylon housings further enhance the tactile sensation, making each keystroke feel smooth and responsive. Conversely, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g boasts a balanced bottom-out force of 53g, which caters to typists who appreciate a light yet tactile keystroke. This balance helps to provide a sense of control without being overly strenuous, particularly well-suited for continuous typing. While the Lucky offers a general lightness in feel, the Silent Sakura focuses on an optimized balance that aids in comfort and efficiency.
In conclusion, both the HMX Lucky linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g each present distinctive qualities suited for different preferences. While the Lucky switch offers a softer sound profile with a neutral typing feel, the Silent Sakura excels in delivering a whisper-quiet experience coupled with a well-balanced actuation force. Depending on your priorities—be it a private or muted typing experience, or the need for comfort during extended use— you're likely to find satisfaction with either option, though the specific nuances will cater to different typing styles and environments.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the HMX Lucky linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch, consider your preferences for keystroke feel and sound. If you favor a lightweight switch with a softer and more neutral typing experience, the HMX Lucky, with its 43g bottom out force, would likely be your best choice. It offers a more glittery nylon housing that provides a deeply satisfying feel, making it ideal for users who enjoy a less strenuous typing experience. However, if you prioritize a typing sensation that balances both sound and force, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g might be more suitable for you. Its 53g bottom out force delivers a satisfying keystroke while ensuring a whisper-quiet operation, making it perfect for shared spaces or late-night typing sessions. Thus, your choice ultimately boils down to whether you seek a lighter, more playful typing experience with the Lucky or a balanced, quiet performance with the Silent Sakura - 53g.
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