Gateron Mars vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 53g
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mars and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Mars and HMX Silent Sakura - 53g offer distinct yet appealing characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Gateron Mars switches are celebrated for their innovative design, which combines a POK stem with a housing crafted from a blend of Nylon and POM, delivering a smooth and responsive feel suitable for both typists and gamers. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g focuses on creating a serene typing experience with its whisper-quiet operation and a balanced bottom out force of 53g, making it an excellent choice for those who work in shared environments or simply seek a more subdued auditory experience while typing. While the Mars may attract users looking for a robust and lively switch, the Silent Sakura appeals to those prioritizing tranquility and tactile satisfaction. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.20 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
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
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 housing materials of the Gateron Mars and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g, one notable similarity lies in the use of nylon for the top housing. Both switches utilize nylon to produce a desirable auditory experience characterized by a deeper and fuller sound profile. The inherent properties of nylon, which is a relatively softer plastic, contribute to its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a rounder and more muted auditory response. This commonality suggests that users of both switches will experience similar sound qualities during typing, as both rely on the nylon top housing to enrich the acoustic aspects of their designs.
However, the bottom housings of these two switches diverge significantly in material choice, which impacts their overall sound profiles. The Gateron Mars employs a POM (polyoxymethylene) bottom housing, known for creating a deeper, more muted sound. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which is stiffer and generates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference means that while both switches share a soft and pleasant auditory experience from the nylon top, the Mars will provide a more rounded, subdued sound from its bottom housing, whereas the Silent Sakura will have a more pronounced, resonant auditory character due to its polycarbonate base.
The contrasting bottom housings ultimately influence the tactile and auditory experience of each switch, as the bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel during key presses. When typing on the Gateron Mars, users will likely notice a softer feedback with a deeper acoustic response due to the POM material, while the Silent Sakura - 53g will offer a sharper feedback with a more resonant sound. This distinction in bottom housing characteristics means that while the top housings may yield similar sound qualities, the overall typing experience will feel quite different, showcasing how varying materials can influence tactile and acoustic responses in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Mars linear switch to the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch, both switches exhibit the same actuation force of 45 grams. This means they require an equal amount of force to register a keystroke, providing a uniform typing experience in that regard. However, the bottom out force differs significantly; the Silent Sakura switch has a specified bottom out force of 53 grams, indicating a heavier feel when fully pressed down, while the bottom out force of the Mars switch remains unknown. Consequently, the Silent Sakura is heavier overall, offering a more substantial typing sensation, while the Mars, with its lighter feel due to the unknown bottom out force, may prove to be more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions. Therefore, if a user prioritizes a lighter keypress for prolonged use, they may lean towards the Mars, whereas those seeking a firmer feedback upon bottoming out might prefer the Silent Sakura.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Mars linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch, we find that the Mars has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Silent Sakura measures at 4 mm. This makes the Gateron Mars the shorter of the two options, appealing to gamers who often prefer the quicker response times associated with shorter travel distances. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura, with its longer travel distance, may be favored by those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile experience and feel that deeper key presses provide a better typing or gaming sensation. Ultimately, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Gateron Mars may be the better choice, while those seeking a more robust depth can lean towards the Silent Sakura.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Mars has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mars for $5.50.
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
The Gateron Mars switches are known for their smooth and relatively quiet operation, making them a solid choice for those seeking a typing experience that won't disturb others in a shared space. These switches produce a subtle sound that, while present, tends to be less pronounced than certain tactile or clicky options. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g excels in providing an exceptionally quiet typing environment, designed specifically to minimize noise. The sound of the Silent Sakura switches has been masterfully engineered to resemble the gentle patter of raindrops, creating a serene ambiance that further emphasizes its whisper-quiet nature. While both switches prioritize a restrained auditory experience, the Silent Sakura ultimately offers a more muted sound profile, perfect for those who desire a nearly silent setup.
When it comes to feel, the Mars switches provide a smooth linear experience, allowing for effortless keystrokes without any tactile bump. This design caters to users who appreciate a straightforward and fluid typing motion, enhancing speed and efficiency. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura - 53g boasts a well-balanced actuation force of 53g at bottom-out, which provides just the right amount of resistance for a satisfying keystroke. While both switches are linear, the Mars focuses on delivering a smooth feel, whereas the Silent Sakura offers a touch of resistance that might appeal to those who want a bit more feedback without a tactile bump.
In summary, while both the Gateron Mars and HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switches are designed for quiet performance, their characteristics vary subtlety. The Mars is geared toward users seeking smoothness and a mild sound signature, while the Silent Sakura - 53g prioritizes an ultra-quiet experience with a balanced actuation force for a comfortable feel. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your preference for sound and the tactile experience you desire during your typing sessions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, your choice between the Gateron Mars linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch should primarily hinge on your typing preferences and environment. If you’re looking for a unique, customizable experience with the potential for a smooth keystroke that accommodates varying styles of typing, the Gateron Mars may be your best fit. Its innovative design, while the specifics regarding sound and feel may be less defined, suggests that it could deliver an engaging tactile feedback that allows for heightened responsiveness—ideal for gaming or fast-paced typing sessions where performance is key. Conversely, if you value a quieter typing experience and prefer a consistent medium-light actuation force, the Silent Sakura - 53g is the more suitable option. Its whisper-quiet operation makes it perfect for shared workspaces or any setting where noise might be a concern. The balanced 53g force provides a satisfyingly deliberate feel that is well-suited for longer typing sessions, reducing finger fatigue while still ensuring a solid typing sensation. Ultimately, assess your priorities in regards to sound, feel, and the specific applications you need the switch for, as this will guide you towards making the right choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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