Outemu Silent White vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 43g
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent White and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, it's essential to consider your typing preferences and the overall experience you desire. The Outemu Silent White is designed for those who appreciate smooth, linear strokes that engage without tactile feedback, although it lacks distinctive features that set it apart in the switch market. On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g stands out with its ultra-light bottom out force of 43g, offering a unique, whisper-quiet typing experience, akin to gentle raindrops. This makes it ideal for light typists who seek a serene environment while minimizing noise. While both switches provide linear operation, their characteristics cater to different typing styles—one aiming for a straightforward and reliable experience, while the other enhances the auditory environment with a softer touch. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Polycarbonate
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 Outemu Silent White and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g, notable differences emerge that affect the overall sound profile of each switch. The Silent White features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its ability to generate a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffer composition. This material not only accentuates the clarity and resonance of the switch’s acoustics but also adds aesthetic value when combined with RGB lighting, thanks to its translucency. Conversely, the Silent Sakura - 43g utilizes a nylon top housing, characterized by its ability to absorb sound and create a deeper, fuller acoustic experience. This softness allows for a more muted sound, which may appeal to users looking for a quieter, more subdued key response. Overall, while the Silent White offers a brighter sound, the Silent Sakura focuses on a richer and more rounded auditory experience.
The bottoms of the switches contribute further to their distinct sound qualities, with the Silent White using nylon and the Silent Sakura employing polycarbonate. The nylon bottom housing of the Silent White enhances the deeper, fuller sound profile consistent with its top housing, thereby providing a cohesive sound experience throughout the key press. Meanwhile, the polycarbonate bottom housing found in the Silent Sakura increases the clarity and sharpness of the sound produced when a key bottoms out. This disparity leads to a key press experience that feels different for each switch, as the material used in the bottom housing significantly influences the tactile feedback and the sound produced at the moment a key is pressed.
In conclusion, while the Silent White and the Silent Sakura - 43g use different materials for their respective top and bottom housings, both switches embody unique characteristics that cater to different auditory preferences. For users seeking a bright, resonant sound with a crisp response, the Outemu Silent White is ideal. On the other hand, those who favor a softer, quieter keystroke with a deeper sound profile will find satisfaction in the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g. Despite the contrasting materials leading to different sound characteristics, both switches are carefully crafted to deliver high-quality performance; users will appreciate the nuances of either choice depending on their typing style and sound preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Silent White linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces that cater to varying preferences. The Silent White switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight option. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura switch features a significantly lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams. This means the Silent Sakura is designed for users who prefer a lighter touch, which can enhance typing endurance during long sessions. Conversely, the heavier Silent White may appeal to those seeking a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Overall, those who opt for the lighter Silent Sakura will find it easier to achieve keystrokes with less effort, while the Silent White's higher forces may provide satisfaction for users who appreciate a firmer push.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Silent White linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, a clear difference emerges. The Silent White features a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it a shorter and more responsive option, ideal for gamers who favor quicker keystrokes. In contrast, the Silent Sakura has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, which may provide a more substantial keystroke feel that some users prefer for a sense of depth and assurance during typing. The Silent White's shorter travel distance can lead to faster response times, while the more extended travel of the Silent Sakura caters to those who value a richer pressing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on whether you prioritize responsiveness or a hearty keystroke feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Silent White comes in at $3.10, 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
The Outemu Silent White linear switch does not have a clearly defined sound profile to discuss, whereas the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switch is celebrated for its exceptionally quiet operation, akin to the soft sound of raindrops on a window. This difference suggests that while the Silent Sakura is designed specifically for a subdued acoustic experience, the Silent White's sound characteristics may be less notable or not as well-documented. The acoustic performance of either switch can still be influenced by factors such as the keyboard construction and keycap materials used, so users seeking a quiet typing environment may find both switches suitable depending on their setup.
When it comes to the feel of these switches, the Silent White lacks detailed descriptions, leaving its tactile feedback and resistance relatively unknown. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g provides a notably light touch with a bottom-out force of only 43g, making it ideal for typists who prefer a gentle keystroke without much effort. This ensures a smooth and effortless typing experience that could potentially minimize fatigue over long typing sessions. If the Silent White offers a comparable linear movement, users might find a similarly smooth experience, but the specifics of their tactile response remain undisclosed.
Overall, while the Outemu Silent White may lack explicit qualities that define its sound and feel, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g stands out for its quiet operation and lightweight actuation, catering to those who prioritize a serene typing atmosphere. Both switches can yield a similar experience in terms of sound dampening, but the tactile feedback of the Silent Sakura is well-characterized, making it a more attractive choice for lighter typists. Users looking to make a decision could consider the Silent Sakura for known qualities while keeping the Silent White as a potential alternative if they find more information about its sound and feel later on.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Outemu Silent White linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch ultimately depends on your typing style and preferences. If you prefer a slightly heavier feel with a bottom-out force of 60 grams, the Silent White may be more suitable for you. This switch can provide a steadier tactile response, which some typists find helps them maintain better control during long typing sessions. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter touch and desire a quieter experience, the Silent Sakura - 43g is the better option. With its ultra-light 43g bottom-out force, this switch caters beautifully to light typists who value a serene typing environment, akin to a gentle rainfall. The Silent Sakura's craftsmanship offers an exceptionally whisper-quiet experience, making it ideal for shared spaces. In essence, consider the Silent White for a more pronounced feel and control, while the Silent Sakura is perfect for a softer touch and tranquility in your typing. Your choice should reflect not only your physical preferences but also the environment in which you’ll be using your keyboard.
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