Outemu Tom vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 53g
An in-depth look at the Outemu Tom and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Tom and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g present distinct yet appealing options tailored for different preferences. The Outemu Tom, a tactile switch, offers a noticeable bump while typing, which can enhance tactile feedback and help typists achieve greater accuracy and assurance with each keystroke. Conversely, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g is a linear switch known for its whisper-quiet operation, providing a smooth and uninterrupted typing experience that is perfect for office environments or late-night work sessions. With a balanced bottom out force of 53g, the Silent Sakura caters to those who enjoy a light and satisfying keystroke without the audible clicks. Both switches are designed to enhance typing comfort, but your choice will largely depend on whether you prefer the tactile feedback of the Outemu Tom or the serene silence of the HMX Silent Sakura. 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-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 Tom and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches, it's clear that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings, leading to distinct acoustic profiles. The Outemu Tom features a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper and crisper sound due to the material's relatively stiff nature. This helps in creating a clear and resonant sound profile, particularly enhanced when RGB lighting is used, as its translucency allows for a vibrant display. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g employs a nylon top housing. Nylon, being softer, produces a deeper and fuller sound profile while absorbing more noise, leading to a more muted typing experience. Thus, even though both switches aim to optimize their acoustic characteristics, they achieve this through fundamentally different material choices.
The bottom housings of both switches also contribute to their overall sound profiles but in opposing manners. The Outemu Tom features a nylon bottom housing, which similarly creates a deeper and rounder sound profile. This characteristic enhances the overall typing experience by softening the bottom-out sound, contributing to a more muted and plush feel. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura uses a polycarbonate bottom housing. This specification introduces a sharper and more resonant feel when bottoming out, countering the muted response of the nylon top. The clash of these materials underscores the importance of each housing's contribution, affecting how the switches sound and feel during use.
When considering the combined effects of these unique materials, it is evident that even fundamental differences can yield similar results. For both switches, the variation in sound profiles provides a contrast between sharper highs and pronounced lows, depending on which end of the switch is engaged. The Tom's polycarbonate top with its nylon bottom leads to a combination of clarity and depth, whereas the Silent Sakura's nylon top and polycarbonate bottom generate a balance of plush quietness and crispness. Ultimately, while the specific materials differ, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience shaped by their respective acoustic signatures, signifying that diverse materials can harmoniously coexist to achieve complementary results.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch, we find notable differences in their actuation forces. The Outemu Tom has an actuation force of 55 grams, while the Silent Sakura requires only 45 grams to achieve actuation. This makes the Outemu Tom a heavier switch, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience, providing better tactile feedback during use. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura’s lighter actuation force allows for easier and longer typing sessions, making it suitable for those who prioritize comfort over longer periods of use. Additionally, the Silent Sakura features a bottom out force of 53 grams, indicating a definitive end to the keystroke, whereas the bottom out force for the Outemu Tom is unavailable. This lack of information for the Tom means we cannot draw direct comparisons regarding its bottom out feel. Overall, if you prefer a heavier touch, the Outemu Tom may be favorable, while the lighter Silent Sakura is better for those looking for a gentler push during typing.
Travel distance
The Outemu Tom tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Silent Sakura switch offers a longer travel distance compared to the Outemu Tom switch. For gamers or users who prefer quicker response times, the shorter 3.3 mm distance of the Tom may be more appealing, as it allows for faster keystrokes. Conversely, the 4 mm travel distance of the Silent Sakura might provide a more satisfying depth for those who appreciate a more deliberate press, making it ideal for users who prefer a traditional typing experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize responsiveness or a more pronounced key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Tom comes in at $3.10, whereas the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g 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 it comes to sound, the Outemu Tom switch does not have a specific characterization, which leaves its auditory profile somewhat ambiguous. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch is designed to deliver an exceptionally quiet typing experience that evokes images of gentle raindrops. This design choice makes the Silent Sakura a favorable option for those working in shared environments or anyone looking to minimize noise distraction. However, it's essential to note that the actual sound produced by either switch will significantly depend on additional factors, including the chosen keyboard housing and keycap materials.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Tom switch lacks a documented tactile description, which makes it difficult to gauge its performance in comparison to the Silent Sakura. The Silent Sakura switch offers a well-balanced bottom-out force of 53g, resulting in a light yet satisfying keystroke that many typists may find appealing. This combination of force and linear feedback is particularly suited for those who seek a smooth typing experience without the interruption of tactile bumps or audible clicks.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Tom switch leaves its auditory and tactile qualities somewhat uncharted, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch stands out for its quiet operation and comfort. If you're someone who prefers a tranquil typing environment, the Silent Sakura provides a distinct advantage with its whisper-quiet sound and satisfying feel. For those considering the Tom switch, it may be best to experience it firsthand to determine its suitability for your preferences, as sound and feel are often subjective and influenced by individual choice in keyboards and setups.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch, it ultimately boils down to your personal preferences and typing habits. If you are a typist who enjoys a pronounced tactile feedback while typing and appreciates a switch that provides a bit of resistance to guide your fingers, the Outemu Tom may be more suitable for you—albeit you may want to gather more information about its specs to ensure it aligns with your needs. On the other hand, if you value a smooth, quiet, and fluid typing experience—especially in shared spaces where noise could be a concern—the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g is the better option. With its balanced 53g bottom out force offering a subtle and satisfying feedback, it excels in providing a serene ambience that allows for focused work or gaming. Ultimately, consider your environment, your typing style, and what you prioritize in a switch to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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