KTT Phalaenopsis vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 43g
An in-depth look at the KTT Phalaenopsis and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, two intriguing options arise: the KTT Phalaenopsis, a tactile switch celebrated for its satisfying feedback, and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g, a linear switch designed for a whisper-quiet typing experience. The Phalaenopsis switch, with its striking translucent design, features a light actuation force of 37g, allowing for effortless typing that minimizes finger fatigue during lengthy sessions. Its 50g tactile force delivers a pronounced bump that enhances the typing experience, making it ideal for those who enjoy a responsive feel with each keystroke. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g caters to those who prefer a more subdued atmosphere; its ultra-light 43g bottom-out force ensures a smooth and serene typing experience, perfect for quieter environments. While both switches have their distinct advantages—one offering satisfying tactile feedback and the other ensuring quiet operation—choosing the right switch ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Phalaenopsis and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches, we see distinct differences in their top housings that influence their overall sound profiles. The KTT Phalaenopsis features a polycarbonate top housing, renowned for delivering a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is made possible by polycarbonate's stiffer nature, which enhances sound clarity and resonance. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura - 43g has a nylon top housing that produces a deeper, fuller sound. The soft characteristics of nylon allow it to absorb sound more efficiently, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. These differences mean that users can expect a more pronounced top-end sound from the Phalaenopsis, while the Silent Sakura - 43g will provide a more subdued and rounded auditory profile.
The bottom housings of both switches present a different scenario, as both are made from polycarbonate. Polycarbonate's inherent stiffness remains consistent across both switches, contributing to a clearer and more resonant sound profile at the bottom of the switch. This uniform use of polycarbonate in the bottom housing ensures that both switches will have a sharper sound when bottoming out, drowning out the softer tones of the nylon upper with the high-pitched clarity of polycarbonate. Consequently, while the top housings of the switches offer contrasting sound experiences, the bottom housings maintain a shared quality that contributes to a consistent auditory clarity when pressed.
Ultimately, the impact of these housing materials extends to the overall typing experience. The differentiation in the top housing materials creates a distinctive character in the sound profile of each switch, while the shared polycarbonate bottom housing ensures a similar bottoming-out experience. For users who prioritize sound clarity in their key presses, the KTT Phalaenopsis may be more favorable. Conversely, those seeking a more subdued and warm response may prefer the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g due to its nylon top. Understanding these nuances helps potential users choose a switch that aligns best with their personal preferences, while the complementary qualities in the bottom housing enable both switches to achieve a shared auditory sharpness when keys are fully engaged.
Weight
The KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch present an interesting comparison in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches share the same actuation force of 37 grams, making them comparable in terms of the effort required to initiate a keystroke. However, the bottom out forces differ: the Phalaenopsis has a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Silent Sakura's is slightly lighter at 43 grams. This difference in bottom out force indicates that the Phalaenopsis offers a heavier feel when pressing the key all the way down, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura, being lighter in terms of bottom out force, could be more comfortable for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. Overall, while both switches are light in nature, the Phalaenopsis is heavier due to its higher bottom out force, contrasting with the Silent Sakura's more gentle ending feel.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch share a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. As a result, users can expect a similar keypress feel when using either switch, which can enhance consistency and familiarity across different keyboards. The identical travel distance means that both switches will provide the same tactile feedback during typing or gaming, ensuring that the experience remains consistent regardless of which switch is chosen.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis 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
When comparing the sound profiles of the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, there are significant differences. The Phalaenopsis switch emits a deep, thocky sound, characterized by a rich and satisfying auditory feedback that can resemble a solid thud when pressed and released. This bassy quality creates a more immersive typing experience, ideal for individuals who appreciate a pronounced acoustic response from their switches. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g offers a whisper-quiet typing experience, crafted specifically for those who prefer minimal sound disruption. While the Silent Sakura is designed to provide a serene environment reminiscent of soft raindrops, it lacks the pronounced audio signature of the Phalaenopsis.
In terms of feel, the differences between the two switches are equally notable. The Phalaenopsis features a stepped tactile feedback, meaning that typists can distinctly experience the tactile bump at the actuation point, along with noticeable pre-travel and post-travel sensations. This structure can result in a more engaging and deliberate typing experience, making each keypress feel rewarding. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura - 43g is a linear switch, which typically provides a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke without tactile feedback. This makes the Silent Sakura a good choice for those who prefer a fluid and seamless typing feel, without the interruptions of tactile bumps.
In conclusion, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch cater to distinctly different typing experiences. If you favor a rich, thocky sound with a stepped tactile feel that provides satisfying feedback, the Phalaenopsis is your ideal choice. However, if you seek a quiet, smooth keystroke with minimal distraction, the Silent Sakura would suit your preferences better. Choosing between these two switches ultimately depends on whether you prioritize auditory and tactile feedback or a serene and fluid typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch largely depends on your typing style and environment. If you enjoy a tactile experience that provides satisfying feedback with each keystroke, the Phalaenopsis, with its light actuation force of 37g and 50g tactile bottom-out force, will enhance your typing pleasure, especially during long sessions where minimizing finger fatigue is key. Its deeper, thocky sound profile can be delightful, but it may not be the best fit if you require a quieter setup. On the other hand, if you're seeking an ultra-quiet experience without sacrificing comfort, the Silent Sakura - 43g will suit you well. With its 43g bottom-out force, this switch delivers a serene and smooth typing experience, perfect for those who value discretion—whether in an office or shared space. Ultimately, by identifying your priorities—whether it be tactile feedback or sound level—you can select the switch that will best enhance your daily typing experience.
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