KTT MoonRosa vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 53g
An in-depth look at the KTT MoonRosa and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, both the KTT MoonRosa and HMX Silent Sakura - 53g offer unique benefits tailored to different typing preferences. The KTT MoonRosa is renowned for its exceptional all-POM construction, delivering a buttery smooth typing experience with a mild, low-pitched feedback that feels easy to press—perfect for those who enjoy a responsive yet gentle keystroke. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g stands out with its whisper-quiet operation, creating a serene typing environment that evokes the sound of gentle raindrops, making it an ideal choice for those who value discretion without sacrificing satisfaction in their keystrokes. While the MoonRosa excels in its smoothness and tactile feedback, the Silent Sakura prioritizes silent efficiency. 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
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
22mm spring
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
The KTT MoonRosa and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches showcase unique housing materials with distinct acoustic properties that influence their overall sound profiles and typing experiences. The MoonRosa features POM (Polyoxymethylene) for both the top and bottom housings. POM is known for creating a deeper and more muted sound profile, imparting a pleasant and rounded auditory experience. This choice of housing material ensures that both the actuation and bottom-out sounds reflect a consistent, warmer tone that can enhance typing comfort for those who prefer a softer auditory feedback.
In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 53g employs a nylon top housing and a polycarbonate bottom housing. The nylon top contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, akin to the POM used in the MoonRosa, thereby resulting in a richer typing experience when pressed down. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing contrasts this by producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound, which can result in a more resonant and clear audio response upon bottoming out. This split between the softer nylon and stiffer polycarbonate allows for a more dynamic auditory experience, as the top and bottom haptics offer varied feedback.
Ultimately, both switches aim to provide a pleasurable typing experience, but they do so through differing material characteristics. While the KTT MoonRosa uses consistent POM for a cohesive sound experience, the Silent Sakura - 53g's combination of nylon and polycarbonate presents a sonic balance: deeper from the nylon top and crisper from the polycarbonate bottom. Consequently, while the two switches may appeal to different preferences, typists can achieve similarly satisfying results by focusing on the specific qualities of each housing material, whether through the muted warmth of POM or the balanced dynamics of nylon and polycarbonate.
Weight
When comparing the KTT MoonRosa linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch, significant differences arise in both actuation force and bottom out force. The MoonRosa features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, which makes it easier to type for extended periods, ideal for lengthy work sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Silent Sakura has a medium-light actuation force of 45 grams, providing a more substantial feel but still remaining manageable for most users. Regarding bottom out force, the MoonRosa reaches 45 grams, while the Silent Sakura bottoms out at 53 grams, implying a firmer resistance at the extreme end of key travel. Consequently, the MoonRosa is the lighter option overall, while the Silent Sakura offers a slightly heavier and more pronounced tactile experience. For those who favor a lighter switch for prolonged use, the MoonRosa would be the better choice, whereas the Silent Sakura caters to individuals who prefer a more robust keystroke feel.
Travel distance
The KTT MoonRosa linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the MoonRosa switch offers a shorter actuation distance compared to the Silent Sakura, making it potentially more responsive and appealing for gamers who favor quicker key presses. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura, with its greater travel distance, may provide a more traditional and hearty feel, which some users might prefer for a satisfying typing experience. Therefore, if you're looking for faster response times, the KTT MoonRosa would be the better choice, whereas the HMX Silent Sakura is better suited for those who enjoy a more substantial depth in their keystrokes.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT MoonRosa comes in at $4.88, whereas the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g comes in at $3.50.
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 of the KTT MoonRosa linear switch to the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switch, the MoonRosa produces a low-pitched sound that provides a mellow and bass-heavy tone, making it pleasant and unobtrusive during use. This characteristic allows for a subtler typing experience that is less likely to disturb those around you. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura - 53g delivers a whisper-quiet typing experience akin to gentle raindrops, ensuring minimal noise that caters perfectly to quiet environments or shared spaces. While both switches promote a discreet auditory profile, the MoonRosa leans toward a low, resonant sound, whereas the Silent Sakura offers a more muted, delicate noise.
When it comes to feel, the MoonRosa switches are noted for their mild characteristics, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable and comfortable for most users. They require minimal force to activate, making typing effortless and reducing finger fatigue during long sessions. This ease of pressing is complemented by a smooth actuation, allowing for a satisfying keystroke without any harsh resistance. In contrast, the feel of the Silent Sakura - 53g is characterized by its balanced 53g bottom-out force, which delivers a lightweight yet satisfying keystroke. While the specific descriptors of its feel are not provided, the emphasis on a balanced actuation force ensures that typists will have an enjoyable experience, potentially similar to the smoothness of the MoonRosa.
In conclusion, both the KTT MoonRosa and HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches provide an appealing typing experience with unique sound and feel characteristics. The MoonRosa offers a rich, low-pitched sound and a mild, easy-to-press feel, making it a versatile switch for everyday use. In contrast, the Silent Sakura appeals to those seeking a quieter option while maintaining a satisfying, lightweight touch. Users looking to choose between them should consider whether they prioritize the smooth, mellow sound of the MoonRosa or the whisper-quiet, gentle feel of the Silent Sakura for their mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the KTT MoonRosa linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch ultimately boils down to your typing preferences and environment. If you favor a lightweight switch that provides an exceptionally smooth and comfortable typing experience, the MoonRosa is an excellent option. Its low bottom-out force of 45 grams allows for effortless key presses and is particularly suitable for long typing sessions where finger fatigue can be a concern. Additionally, its low-pitched sound signature offers a mellow auditory experience that is less likely to disturb those around you. On the other hand, if you seek a slightly heavier feel with a balanced actuation force, the Silent Sakura - 53g is ideal for you. Its medium-light resistance of 53 grams gives a more subdued yet satisfying keystroke that still requires minimal effort, while its whisper-quiet operation makes it perfect for shared spaces or quiet environments, allowing you to type with peace of mind. In making your decision, consider whether you prioritize the ultra-light touch and smoothness of the MoonRosa or the quiet typing experience and moderate actuation of the Silent Sakura to find the switch that best matches your unique style.
Mentioned in this article
