Cherry MX Purple RGB vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 43g
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Purple RGB 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 differences between tactile and linear switches can significantly influence your typing experience. The Cherry MX Purple RGB switches are celebrated for their balanced tactile feedback, offering a satisfying medium-strength bump that enhances the typing experience, particularly for users who appreciate a clear tactile response. Developed in collaboration with keyboard expert Glarses, these switches are ideal for those who enjoy a blend of typing precision and a pronounced feel. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches provide a linear experience, characterized by their smooth keystrokes and whisper-quiet operation, making them the perfect choice for users who prioritize a serene environment while typing. With an ultra-light 43g bottom-out force, these switches cater to light typists who prefer a more delicate touch without the interruption of audible clicks. Ultimately, each switch has its unique appeal, but let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal 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
4.00 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
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g, both switches share a common material for their top housings: nylon. This similarity highlights the characteristics associated with nylon in mechanical switch design, including its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. Because nylon is a softer plastic, it effectively absorbs sound, resulting in a typing experience that is more muted and rounded. This acoustic dampening feature makes both switches conducive to environments where noise reduction is desirable, allowing for a pleasant typing experience without harsh or overly high-pitched sounds.
In contrast, the bottom housing materials of these two switches diverge considerably. The Cherry MX Purple RGB utilizes nylon for its bottom housing as well, which reinforces the already rich sound profile established by its top housing. This consistency in materials across both housing types means that the MX Purple RGB can maintain a cohesive sound signature during key presses and releases. On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g employs polycarbonate for its bottom housing, which defines a sharper and crisper sound profile. The firmer structure of polycarbonate allows for more resonance, enhancing clarity but also leading to distinct acoustics compared to the softer nylon. Therefore, while typing on the Silent Sakura - 43g may produce sounds with more bite due to its bottom housing, the overall experience is distinctly different from that of the Cherry MX Purple RGB.
The differences in bottom housing materials have a significant impact on the feel and sound when pressing and releasing keys. For the MX Purple RGB, the nylon bottom housing contributes to a smoother and softer keystroke feel, where the overall sound is consistently warm and rounded. Contrarily, the Silent Sakura - 43g, with its polycarbonate bottom housing, generates a higher-pitched and more resonant sound when keys bottom out, while still managing to maintain a quieter profile due to its design for silent operation. Thus, even though both switches share nylon for their top housing, the bottom housing difference leads to distinct auditory and tactile experiences. If the overall typing experience is prioritized equally in both switches, users may still achieve a satisfying feel while enjoying the ergonomic advantages each housing material offers.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, there are notable differences in their specifications. The Cherry MX Purple RGB requires an actuation force of 45 grams, making it the heavier option compared to the HMX Silent Sakura, which has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams. Additionally, while the bottom out force for the Silent Sakura is clearly defined at 43 grams, the bottom out force for the Cherry MX Purple RGB is unknown, leaving that aspect to speculation. This discrepancy in actuation forces means that typists or gamers who prefer a lighter switch for longer typing sessions may find the HMX Silent Sakura more appealing, while those who seek a heavier, more substantial feel might gravitate toward the Cherry MX Purple RGB. Thus, with a clearer understanding of these forces, users can choose a switch that best fits their typing preference and desired experience.
Travel distance
Both the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, meaning they travel the same distance from the top to the bottom when pressed. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users can expect a comparable feel when typing or gaming on keyboards featuring either switch. As a result, those who prefer the tactile feedback of the Cherry MX Purple RGB will find that their experience won't differ significantly from that of the HMX Silent Sakura, supporting consistent performance across their keyboard choices.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
The HMX Silent Sakura - 43g has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Sakura - 43g for $2.99.
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 Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch produces a noticeable tactile bump, leading to an audible click that provides audible feedback with each keystroke. This sound, while not excessively loud, can be pronounced enough to give a satisfying typing experience, particularly suited for those who appreciate an auditory cue when they type. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g is engineered for acoustic discretion, offering a whisper-quiet typing experience that is designed to minimize noise significantly. When typing on these switches, the sound is often described as soft and muted, akin to gentle raindrops, making it an excellent choice for shared workspaces or quiet environments where noise may be a consideration.
When it comes to feel, the MX Purple RGB provides a refined tactile experience with a medium-strength bump that offers a satisfying resistance without being overly strong. This tactile feedback helps typists feel each activation point clearly, adding to the overall typing pleasure, especially for those who prefer a tactile response without the loudness of a clicky switch. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura - 43g features a linear actuation with an ultra-light 43g bottom-out force, making it feel smooth and effortless. This switch is less about the tactile sensation and more focused on a fluid typing experience, which can be particularly appealing to those who type lightly or prioritize speed over feedback.
In summary, the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch caters to those who appreciate an audible and tactile typing experience, while the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g focuses on a serene, noise-free operation with a lighter actuation force. While both switches excel in their respective areas, they cater to different preferences, allowing typists to choose based on their desired auditory and tactile feedback. If you're looking for a more traditional typing feel with satisfying bumps and sound, the MX Purple RGB will suit you well. Conversely, if you're seeking an ultra-quiet environment with smooth keystrokes, the Silent Sakura - 43g is an excellent option.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch fundamentally hinges on your typing preferences and the environment in which you work. If you appreciate a tactile feedback that enhances your typing experience with a noticeable bump, the Cherry MX Purple RGB would be suitable for you, especially if you enjoy gaming or typing that provides a satisfying tactile response. However, if your priority is a quiet and tranquil typing environment or if you’re a light typist who prefers a softer touch, then the HMX Silent Sakura with its lightweight 43g bottom-out force will better meet your needs. The Silent Sakura delivers a gentle, smooth experience that minimizes noise, making it ideal for shared spaces or late-night work sessions. In essence, choose the Cherry MX Purple RGB for a tactile and engaging feel, and opt for the HMX Silent Sakura if you're looking for an ultra-quiet, serene typing experience.
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