Cherry MX Red vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 53g
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Red and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Red and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g present two appealing yet distinct options for typists. The Cherry MX Red, known for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, offers a robust typing experience characterized by a satisfying auditory depth. This switch is categorized as "Thocky," "Low-pitched," and "Textured," making it a popular choice for users who enjoy a more tactile engagement with their keyboard. On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g caters to those seeking a quieter alternative, providing a whisper-quiet typing experience that evokes the soft sound of raindrops. With a perfectly balanced 53g bottom-out force, this switch is designed for typists who prefer a lighter yet satisfying keystroke, ideal for office settings or late-night gaming sessions. While each switch has its unique advantages, it's essential to consider your personal preferences and typing environment. 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
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
The Cherry MX Red and HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches both feature nylon top housings, which contribute to their similar sound characteristics. Nylon is recognized as a classic switch housing material that enhances the overall acoustic profile of a keyboard. With both switches employing nylon for the top housing, they are expected to deliver a deeper, fuller sound profile when typing. The softness of nylon allows it to absorb sound better than harder plastics, resulting in a sound that is more muted and rounded. As a result, users of either switch can anticipate a satisfying and consistent acoustic experience when engaging with the top housing.
However, the bottom housings of these two switches differ significantly in material composition, which is critical when considering the overall typing experience. The Cherry MX Red utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which behaves similarly to the top housing by reinforcing the deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches rely on a polycarbonate bottom housing. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer material, generates a sharper and crisper sound profile that accentuates higher frequencies. Consequently, while both switches may deliver similar sound profiles due to the nylon top, the contrasting bottom materials will lead to different acoustic experiences during typing, with the HMX Silent Sakura providing a more resonant and articulate bottom-out sound due to its polycarbonate construction.
In addition to the auditory differences, the distinct materials impact both the tactile feel and aesthetic of the switches. The nylon housing in both versions produces a softer feel during keystrokes, contributing to a more cushioned typing experience. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom of the Silent Sakura not only offers a different auditory signature but also allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the visual appeal for users who prioritize aesthetics in their keyboard setup. When pressing either switch, the individual characteristics of the bottom housing play a significant role in the overall feel, emphasizing the importance of understanding how the combined effects of the materials can lead to nuanced differences in typing performance and experience.
Weight
When comparing the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch, we find similarities as well as differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, meaning that they require an identical amount of force to register a keystroke, which can result in a similar typing experience suitable for those who prefer lighter switches for extended use. However, the HMX Silent Sakura switch stands out with its bottom out force of 53 grams, indicating that it requires more force to fully press down compared to the unknown bottom out force of the Cherry MX Red. Consequently, while both switches feel equally light during the actuation, the Silent Sakura switch has a noticeably heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial tactile response for users who prefer a firmer typing experience. Thus, individuals looking for a lighter touch may favor the Cherry MX Red, while those who appreciate a heavier push feel should consider the HMX Silent Sakura.
Travel distance
Both the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch feature the same travel distance of 4 mm. This similarity means that users can expect comparable keypress feedback and actuation depth when utilizing either switch. As a result, both switches will deliver similar performance in terms of key travel, making them appealing options for typists and gamers alike. Since their travel distances are equal, transitioning from one switch to the other would yield a consistent experience regarding the distance felt when pressing down on a key.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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
When it comes to sound, Cherry MX Red switches are recognized for their thocky and low-pitched auditory profile, providing a deep and satisfying thud as each key is pressed. This makes the typing experience feel robust and engaging, with the nuances of sound enriching interactions with the keyboard. In contrast, the acoustic characteristics of the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches are designed to be whisper-quiet, aiming for a more tranquil typing experience akin to gentle raindrops. This makes the Silent Sakura ideal for environments where noise is a concern, but it lacks the distinctive auditory depth that MX Reds provide.
In terms of feel, the MX Reds are known for their textured quality, offering a sense of friction that can be appreciated by those who enjoy tactile feedback during typing. This texture adds a layer of engagement, allowing typists to connect with each keystroke more deeply. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura switches present a different approach; their specifications suggest a balanced feel with a bottom-out force of 53g, but details on their specific tactile qualities are unknown. Therefore, users may experience a smoother sensation, particularly since these switches aim for a quieter and more subdued experience.
In conclusion, while Cherry MX Red switches cultivate a deeper sound and a textured typing experience, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches cater to those preferring silence and potentially a smoother stroke. This distinction makes both switches suitable for different preferences and environments, providing typists with options that align with their specific needs and aesthetics. Ultimately, whether the satisfying thock of the MX Reds or the serene whispers of the Silent Sakura, users can find equally effective solutions tailored to their typing experience, depending on personal preference and contextual requirements.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the Cherry MX Red and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g comes down to your specific typing preferences and environment. If you value a classic, robust typing experience with a thocky sound and slightly heftier feel, the Cherry MX Red switch may be the better option for you. Its satisfying auditory depth complements a responsive keypress, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more traditional mechanical keyboard experience, especially in gaming or tasks where feedback is crucial. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter, more discreet typing experience—perhaps for office environments or shared spaces—then the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g would be your switch of choice. With its whisper-quiet actuation and a medium-light bottom out force, this switch allows for a gentle and pleasant typing experience without disturbing those around you. Therefore, consider your typical usage scenarios and personal comfort with sound and feedback when making your choice, as each switch brings its own unique advantages to the table.
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