Haimu Neo White vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 43g
An in-depth look at the Haimu Neo White and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Haimu Neo White and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g each offer unique benefits tailored to different typing preferences. The Neo White switches are celebrated for their medium weight and slightly reduced travel, providing a distinctive typing feel characterized by the rare Ly stem, which contributes to a remarkably smooth actuation that enhances overall satisfaction with each keystroke. This switch is ideal for users who value a mild and neutral experience, making it a great choice for both gaming and typing. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g switches cater specifically to those seeking a tranquil typing atmosphere. With an ultra-light bottom-out force of just 43g, these linear switches enable a whisper-quiet experience, reminiscent of gentle raindrops, which is perfect for light typists or anyone in a shared workspace. While both switches boast linear mechanisms that facilitate fluid key presses, they diverge in the weight and noise produced during use. However, 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
N/A
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Haimu Neo White and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g, a significant distinction lies in the materials used for the top housing. The Neo White features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, making it resonate more clearly. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g employs a nylon top housing that absorbs sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience. This divergence in sound characteristics means that the Neo White will excel in clarity and brightness, ideal for users who prefer a more pronounced audio feedback, while the Silent Sakura caters to those who favor a more subdued, rounded sound.
However, when we turn our attention to the bottom housing of these switches, we find an interesting reversal. The Neo White utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to that deeper sound profile, resonant with what is typically expected from nylon. Conversely, the Silent Sakura - 43g incorporates polycarbonate for its bottom housing, amplifying the sharpness and clarity of sound when the switch bottoms out. This contrast in materials leads to a complementary relationship within each switch: the Neo White balances a bright top tone with a fuller bottom end, while the Silent Sakura juxtaposes a fuller top end with a sharper bottom sound.
Ultimately, even with differing materials, both switches can achieve a satisfying auditory experience by the interplay of their top and bottom housing materials. With the Neo White's polycarbonate top providing clarity and its nylon bottom offering fullness, the sound profile is balanced and dynamic. In the case of the Silent Sakura, the nylon top gives a rounded touch paired with a clear bottom from the polycarbonate. If either switch is configured correctly, users can enjoy unique yet equally engaging acoustic feedback during typing. Thus, while the materials differ, the overall sound profile can satisfy a wide array of preferences through thoughtful design.
Weight
When comparing the Haimu Neo White linear switch to the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, notable differences can be seen in their actuation forces and bottom out forces. The Neo White has an unspecified actuation force, while its bottom out force is 58 grams, categorized as medium. In contrast, the Silent Sakura has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, which is considered light. This difference in force makes the Silent Sakura the lighter option, likely making it more suitable for users who prefer easier key presses for extended typing or gaming sessions. The heavier Neo White, with its medium bottom out force, might appeal to those who favor a more substantial feel while typing. Since the actuation force of the Neo White remains unknown, it is not possible to directly compare those aspects; however, for users who appreciate a firmer touch, the Neo White may provide a distinct experience compared to the lighter Silent Sakura.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Haimu Neo White linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Silent Sakura switch offers a longer travel distance, which can provide a more pronounced tactile experience and may feel more satisfying for users who prefer a deeper key press. In contrast, the Neo White switch, with its shorter travel distance, caters to gamers and users seeking faster response times and a more abrupt feel, making it a suitable choice for those who prioritize speed and efficiency in their typing or gaming. Therefore, if you prefer a more responsive feel, the Neo White would be the better option, while the Silent Sakura is ideal for those who favor a traditional, deeper keystroke.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Haimu Neo White comes in at $2.70, whereas the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g 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 considering the sound profile, the Haimu Neo White switch presents a neutral character. This means it produces a moderate sound during typing, striking a balance that makes it suitable for various environments, whether at home or in the office. This moderate actuation force ensures that novices and experienced typists alike can enjoy a satisfactory acoustic performance without being overly disruptive. On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switch is designed with an emphasis on being whisper-quiet, allowing for an exceptionally subdued auditory experience. While the details of its sound characteristics are not explicitly mentioned, it’s tailored for those who prefer a serene atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for quiet environments.
In terms of feel, the Neo White switch is characterized by a mild typing experience. This quality allows typists to enjoy a smooth actuation that is gentle on the fingers, providing comfort during extended typing sessions without overwhelming the user. The use of a Ly stem contributes to this smooth action, making the Neo White approachable for a broad range of typists. In contrast, although the specifics of the Silent Sakura's feel aren’t detailed, its ultra-light 43g bottom-out force suggests it may offer a more delicate touch ideal for light typists seeking a less forceful keystroke experience. This difference in weight can lead to a varied sensation during typing, with the Neo White feeling somewhat more substantial in comparison.
In conclusion, both the Haimu Neo White and HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches cater to different preferences. The Neo White offers a neutral sound and mild feel, making it versatile for a range of settings and typists. Conversely, the Silent Sakura is engineered for those who prioritize quietness and a lighter actuation force, potentially leading to a very different typing experience. Each switch has its strengths, and while they may feel different, they both promise to deliver satisfactory performance within their unique niche. Ultimately, the decision will hinge on individual preferences regarding sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, your personal typing style and environment will play crucial roles. If you prefer a medium actuation force that strikes a balance between resistance and ease of typing, the Neo White is an excellent choice. Its slightly reduced travel and smooth actuation, stemming from the unique Ly stem design, make it a solid option for both casual and prolonged use, suitable for various settings, whether at home or in a more professional atmosphere. On the other hand, if you are a light typist who values a quieter experience, the Silent Sakura - 43g will cater to your needs perfectly. With its ultra-light force and minimal sound profile, it creates a peaceful typing environment that is gentle on the ears, making it ideal for shared workspaces or quiet study sessions. Ultimately, the decision hinges on your preferences for sound, feel, and typing weight, so choose the switch that aligns best with how you intend to use your keyboard.
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