Dareu Master vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 43g
An in-depth look at the Dareu Master and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, both the Dareu Master and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g offer distinct advantages tailored to different typing preferences. The Master switch is celebrated for its medium weight and smooth operation, delivering a satisfying clacky sound that appeals to users who appreciate auditory feedback while typing. This switch strikes a balance between auditory satisfaction and tactile responsiveness, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more traditional typing experience. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g focuses on creating a serene and discreet typing atmosphere, featuring an ultra-light 43g bottom-out force that caters to users who prefer a softer touch and quieter keystrokes. Its design evokes the gentle sound of raindrops, perfect for office environments or shared spaces. While both switches offer a linear feel and a smooth typing experience, each serves a different purpose based on user needs. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Master and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g both exhibit distinct characteristics in their housing materials that significantly influence their acoustic profiles and overall typing experience. The Dareu Master utilizes a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing, known for producing a unique sound that is deeper and more muted. This particular housing characteristic allows for a pleasing auditory feedback when typing, as it absorbs some of the sound, resulting in a softer striking noise. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g employs a nylon top housing, which, while also capable of creating a deep sound profile, attributes its tonal quality to the softer plastic nature of nylon—affording a fuller sound that also leans towards a muted experience. Despite the different materials, both switches are designed to deliver a satisfying auditory experience, though the nuances differ slightly between POM and nylon.
Examining the bottom housing of each switch reveals further divergence in sound properties. The Dareu Master's bottom housing is also made of POM, consistently producing a muted and pleasing sound signature throughout the switch due to the inherent qualities of the material. Conversely, the Silent Sakura - 43g features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which is typically stiffer than POM and, as a result, generates a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. The resonance and clarity of polycarbonate make it an ideal choice for those seeking a more pronounced auditory feedback when bottoming out. Here, the contrasting materials produce different sound characteristics that interact uniquely with the top housing's properties, influencing the overall experience when typing.
When considering the combined effects of the materials, it becomes clear how the different housing compositions yield distinct results. While the Dareu Master maintains a harmonious sound throughout with consistent POM material, the Silent Sakura - 43g presents a more layered acoustic experience due to the juxtaposition of nylon and polycarbonate. Specifically, the POM top and bottom housing of the Master allows for a cohesive sound profile, whereas the Silent Sakura offers a blend of deeper and sharper sounds due to the differing material roles. This interplay suggests that, despite using different materials, one could achieve a balanced experience with the right combination of switches—either leaning toward a more muted tone with the Dareu Master or a sharper auditory clarity with the Silent Sakura - 43g. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on personal preference and desired typing feel, allowing users to tailor their setup based on sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Dareu Master linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Master switch requires a heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Silent Sakura's lighter 37 grams. This means that users of the Master switch may experience more resistance during typing or gaming, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feedback with each keystroke. However, the bottom out force for the Master switch remains unknown, while the Silent Sakura's bottom out force is 43 grams, indicating that it provides a definite tactile response when fully pressed. As a result, the Silent Sakura switch can be considered more user-friendly for those engaging in lengthy typing sessions or gaming, being lighter overall. In contrast, the Dareu Master switch may cater more to typists who enjoy a firmer push. Therefore, individuals looking for a lighter switch might gravitate towards the HMX Silent Sakura, while those preferring a heavier touch might opt for the Dareu Master.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Dareu Master linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, the two options reveal distinct characteristics. The Dareu Master switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it the shorter option, while the HMX Silent Sakura switch features a travel distance of 4.0 mm, which is more traditional. This difference means that the Master switch may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times, as shorter travel distances can facilitate faster actions. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura switch, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a more deliberate keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding responsiveness versus a more robust typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Master has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Master for $4.76.
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 it comes to sound, the Dareu Master linear switch offers a distinct clacky acoustics that many typists appreciate. This sharp and snappy sound is characterized by a crisp and percussive quality, making it ideal for users who enjoy an audible feedback with each keystroke. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g is designed for those who prefer a quieter environment. Engineered to provide a whisper-quiet typing experience, the Silent Sakura mimics the gentle patter of raindrops, making it perfect for users in shared spaces or those who simply prefer a more subdued auditory experience while typing.
Regarding the feel, the Master features a combination of mild characteristics and polished smoothness. Typists can expect a gentle yet satisfying experience as the Master provides key travel that is accessible to most users without being too overwhelming. The polished nature of the switch ensures that friction is minimized, resulting in a sleek and refined typing journey. On the other hand, while the specific feel attributes of the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g are not detailed, its ultra-light 43g bottom-out force suggests a light touch that may cater to users looking for a smooth, effortless typing experience but lacks the pronounced tactile feedback that the Master provides.
Overall, if you are seeking a more traditional typing experience with audible sound and a satisfying feel, the Dareu Master linear switch is an excellent choice. On the other hand, if your preference leans towards silence and a lighter touch, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g will likely meet your needs with its soft auditory profile and gentle actuation force. Depending on your typing style and preference, either switch will deliver a unique experience that caters to different types of users, so your choice should align with your specific desired qualities in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Dareu Master linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, consider your typing style and environment. If you prefer a more classic and responsive experience, the Master switch is an excellent choice thanks to its mild and polished feel, coupled with a clacky sound that can make typing feel satisfying and lively. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy a bit of auditory feedback and appreciate a balanced weight, making it great for both gaming and typing. On the other hand, if you work in a quieter setting or simply prefer a more subdued auditory experience, the Silent Sakura - 43g is designed specifically for those light typists seeking a serene environment. Its whisper-quiet operation and ultra-light bottom out force make it perfect for long typing sessions without disturbing those around you. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you value the auditory feedback and medium weight of the Master or the quiet, gentle touch of the Silent Sakura - 43g.
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