Cherry Nixie vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 43g
An in-depth look at the Cherry Nixie and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the unique features of various options. The Cherry Nixie switches are renowned for their substantial heft and textured typing experience, providing a tactile sensation that many users cherish. This classic option, enhanced with updated materials from Cherry’s MX2A iteration, offers a ‘thocky’ feel that appeals to those who appreciate a solid keystroke. On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches focus on delivering a remarkably quiet typing experience, making them an excellent choice for light typists who value serenity while they work. With an ultra-light bottom-out force of 43g, these switches allow for a fluid typing motion, ideal for creating a distraction-free environment. Both switches cater to different user preferences: the Nixie for those who revel in tactile feedback, and the Silent Sakura for those seeking tranquility. 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
63.5g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Cherry Nixie and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g, a notable similarity lies in their top housing materials; both switches feature nylon for the top housing. This common choice of material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, resulting in a more subdued auditory experience when typing. Nylon’s comparatively softer properties allow it to absorb sound effectively, mitigating harsher frequencies and producing a rounder tone. Consequently, if users prioritize a quieter typing experience with a warm sound signature, both switches are likely to deliver similar results due to this shared top housing characteristic.
In contrast, the bottom housing materials of the two switches present a significant difference that directly affects their acoustic properties. The Cherry Nixie utilizes a nylon bottom housing, aligning it with the softer sound profile created by its top housing, while the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g is constructed with a polycarbonate bottom housing. The polycarbonate material introduces a sharper, more resonant sound profile due to its stiffer composition, which enhances clarity and brightness. This distinction means that while both switches offer a pleasant typing experience, the Nixie will maintain a more uniform and muted auditory output, whereas the Silent Sakura will produce a crisper sound due to the polycarbonate's unique acoustic characteristics.
Overall, the differences in bottom housing materials between the two switches are significant enough to influence the overall typing sound and feel. The Nixie's nylon bottom housing contributes to a consistent and deeper sound profile, while the Silent Sakura's polycarbonate bottom leads to a more clear and pronounced acoustic experience. Although both switches utilize nylon in their top housings, thus giving them a similar touch and release sound, the interaction between the bottom housing materials introduces variability in their overall auditory feedback. Therefore, users who appreciate a rounder, deeper sound may lean towards the Nixie, whereas those who prefer a sharper and crisper profile may find the Silent Sakura - 43g more appealing.
Weight
When comparing the Cherry Nixie linear switch to the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, there is a distinct contrast in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Nixie requires a heavier actuation force of 63.5 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g boasts a much lighter actuation force of only 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, ideal for users seeking a softer touch for longer typing sessions. Thus, the Nixie is the heavier option, while the Silent Sakura - 43g is lighter, catering to different preferences in typing feel and fatigue management. Though their actuation and bottom out forces differ significantly, users seeking a comparable experience in terms of actuation could find value in a heavier switch like the Nixie, while those who enjoy a gentler touch might lean towards the Silent Sakura.
Travel distance
Both the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch have an identical travel distance of 4 mm. This means that users will experience the same key feel when pressing down on these switches, allowing for a consistent typing experience across both options. Since their travel distances are equal, you can expect similar results in terms of responsiveness and actuation feel. Thus, whether opting for the Nixie or the Silent Sakura, you will enjoy a uniform depth of keypress that contributes to the overall performance of your keyboard.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.19.
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
When it comes to sound, the Cherry Nixie linear switch offers a distinctive auditory experience characterized by its thocky and low-pitched qualities. This results in a deep, resonant sound reminiscent of a satisfying "thud" when the keys are pressed and released, making it a favorite among typists who appreciate a pronounced acoustic feedback. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch focuses on delivering a whisper-quiet typing experience, designed to ensure minimal sound distraction, akin to gentle raindrops falling against a window. While the Nixie provides an engaging auditory presence, the Silent Sakura prioritizes serenity in sound, making it more suitable for quiet environments.
In terms of feel, the Nixie switch is known for its textured action, which introduces a certain level of friction during keypresses. This textured sensation can enhance typing precision for those who prefer a tactile element in their switches. The Silent Sakura - 43g, however, does not possess any specific feel descriptors, leaving its tactile experience less defined. That said, users seeking a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke might find the light bottom-out force of the Silent Sakura appealing, especially suited for swift typing without any texture to hinder the flow.
In conclusion, both the Cherry Nixie and Silent Sakura - 43g linear switches cater to different user preferences through their unique sound and feel profiles. The Nixie’s rich, thocky sound and textured feel provide a classic, engaging experience, while the Silent Sakura's whisper-quiet operation and ultra-light force deliver a more subdued and tranquil typing environment. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize auditory feedback and texture or seek a serene and effortless typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the environment in which you plan to use your keyboard. If you desire a heavier typing experience with a robust and thocky sound profile, the Cherry Nixie is an excellent option, particularly suited for users who appreciate a tactile and textured feel as they type. It's perfect for those who like the satisfying resistance of an 80-gram bottom out force and enjoy the deeper tones that come with it—ideal for a home office or a personal workspace where noise might be less of a concern. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter, more serene typing environment, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g stands out with its ultra-light 43-gram bottom out force, making it a fantastic choice for light typists or those working in shared spaces. Its whisper-quiet operation ensures minimal disruption, allowing you to type away in peace while maintaining a smooth and effortless feel. Ultimately, consider not just your typing style but also your workspace dynamics when making your choice between these two distinctive switches.
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