Cherry MX Silent Red vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 43g
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Silent Red 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, the Cherry MX Silent Red and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g each offer unique advantages tailored to different typing preferences. The Cherry MX Silent Red combines the desirable qualities of the renowned MX Red with a significant reduction in sound, making it an excellent choice for users who enjoy a 'thocky,' low-pitched typing feel without disturbing those around them. Its heavier actuation provides a robust tactile response, making it suitable for individuals who appreciate a more grounded typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g is engineered for those who favor a feather-light touch, boasting only 43g of actuation force. This switch prioritizes a serene typing atmosphere, perfect for users who type lightly and value a tranquil environment conducive to concentration. Both switches excel in creating a quieter workspace, but they do so in distinctly different ways. 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
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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 Silent Red and HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches share a commonality in their top housing material: both utilize nylon, recognized as a classic and effective choice for switch construction. This similarity contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, stemming from nylon's inherent characteristics. Being a softer plastic, nylon effectively absorbs sound waves, thus dampening them to produce a rounder and more muted tone. As a result, users of both switches can expect an enhanced typing experience that prioritizes a quieter keypress, with the nylon top housing ensuring a consistent auditory profile that prioritizes noise reduction.
However, a notable divergence occurs in the bottom housing materials used in the MX Silent Red and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g. The MX Silent Red features a nylon bottom housing, which continues to contribute to the overall subdued sound atmosphere, as nylon’s softer nature absorbs sound more than its harder counterparts. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g employs a polycarbonate bottom housing. Polycarbonate is stiffer and, as such, it generates a sharper and crisper sound profile. This contrast means that while both switches offer a serene typing experience, the Silent Sakura may produce a more prominent sound upon bottoming out compared to the MX Silent Red, which remains consistently muted due to its all-nylon design.
In essence, the differences in bottom housing materials result in varied auditory feedback and tactile sensations between the two switches. While the nylon top of both switches creates that desirable sound-dampening effect, its impact on the overall sound profile differs based on the bottom housing's composition. When typing on the MX Silent Red, the softer nylon accommodates a more muted keystroke feel, while the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g’s use of a polycarbonate bottom introduces a brighter tone, especially noticeable during bottom-out moments. Ultimately, despite the comparable benefits of the nylon top in both switches, the user experience may vary significantly, leaning towards a more vibrant sound profile with the Silent Sakura due to its unique juxtapositions in material and acoustics.
Weight
When comparing the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, there are notable differences in actuation force and bottom out force. The Cherry MX Silent Red requires an actuation force of 45 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Sakura, which has an actuation force of 37 grams. This means that typists or gamers who prefer a lighter touch may find the Silent Sakura more comfortable for long sessions, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance might favor the Cherry MX Silent Red. The bottom out force for the MX Silent Red is unknown, whereas the Silent Sakura has a bottom out force of 43 grams. This indicates that, while both switches have their specific characteristics, the Silent Sakura is overall the lighter option, ideal for extended typing or gaming without fatigue, while the MX Silent Red offers a heavier touch that some users may find preferable for a more tactile feedback experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, it is clear that the MX Silent Red features a shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Silent Sakura has a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. The traditional travel distance of 4.0 mm, as seen in the HMX Silent Sakura, typically offers a more substantial feel when pressing down, which can appeal to users who prefer a deeper keypress response. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red's 3.7 mm travel distance may be more attractive to gamers and those seeking quicker response times, as shorter distances can enhance speed while typing or gaming. Therefore, users looking for a more responsive experience might opt for the MX Silent Red, while those who value a more pronounced keypress may prefer the HMX Silent Sakura.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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
The sound profile of the Cherry MX Silent Red is characterized by a muted, thocky, and low-pitched signature. Users can expect a softer typing experience compared to traditional switches that produce more pronounced clicks or clacks. The muted quality helps in environments where noise sensitivity is crucial, while the deep and satisfying thocky sound gives a reassuring feedback with each key press. In contrast, the sound characteristics of the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches remain unknown, but it is implied that they also are whisper-quiet, designed for a serene typing experience akin to gentle raindrops. Ultimately, while the MX Silent Red provides specific auditory descriptors, the absence of detailed sound characteristics for the Silent Sakura leaves room for potential subjectivity based on user experience.
When it comes to feel, the MX Silent Red features a textured experience, which can come across as slightly scratchy or with noticeable friction during keystrokes. This characteristic can appeal to users who appreciate a bit of feedback as they type, allowing for a distinct connection with each key press. Conversely, the feel of the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches is also unknown, creating uncertainty about whether it offers a similarly textured experience or a smoother interaction. Nevertheless, the Silent Sakura's lighter bottom-out force may suggest a different tactile experience overall for typists, accommodating those who prefer a lighter touch.
In summary, while both the Cherry MX Silent Red and HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches prioritize quiet operation for a comfortable typing environment, their auditory and tactile experiences vary. The MX Silent Red is defined by its muted thocky sound and textured feel, whereas the characteristics of the Silent Sakura remain unspecified, leaving potential users to explore their unique experiences. Both switches aim to satisfy those searching for tranquility while typing, ensuring that users can enjoy a serene atmosphere, albeit with some distinctions in execution.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between Cherry MX Silent Red and HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switches ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you find yourself in a noise-sensitive space or you value a traditional touch paired with minimal sound, then the Cherry MX Silent Red is your best bet. Its slightly heftier feel and muted, low-pitched thocky sound can provide a satisfying typing experience without disturbing others around you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and an exceptionally quiet typing experience that feels almost effortless, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g is likely a better fit. With its ultra-light actuation force, it caters to lighter typists seeking a serene atmosphere, reminiscent of raindrops lightly falling. Thus, consider your typing style and environment; whether you lean towards the more classic tactile experience of the Silent Red or the feather-light, whisper-quiet charm of the Silent Sakura, either choice will enhance your mechanical keyboard experience in its own unique way.
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