KTT Phalaenopsis vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 53g
An in-depth look at the KTT Phalaenopsis and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Phalaenopsis and HMX Silent Sakura - 53g offer distinct experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The Phalaenopsis, with its tactile switch design, boasts a light actuation force of 37g and a 50g tactile bump, ensuring that each keystroke delivers a satisfying feedback that's both delightful and forgiving, making it a fantastic choice for those who engage in long typing sessions. Its "bassy," "stepped," and "thocky" sound profile adds an immersive auditory element that many typists enjoy. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 53g caters to those prioritizing quiet operation without sacrificing a pleasant typing experience. With a balanced 53g bottom-out force, these linear switches provide a smooth, whisper-quiet feel, ideal for shared workspaces or night-time use. While the Phalaenopsis appeals to tactile enthusiasts seeking feedback and sound, the Silent Sakura presents a serene option for users who value stealth and smoothness. 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
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
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 analyzing the housing materials of the KTT Phalaenopsis and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches, one can observe both similarities and differences that influence their sound profiles and overall feel during operation. The KTT Phalaenopsis features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Silent Sakura - 53g opts for a nylon material. Polycarbonate, known for its rigidity, contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, making it particularly effective for RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Silent Sakura results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to nylon’s sound-absorbing characteristics. This fundamental difference indicates that users may experience distinct auditory feedback depending on the materials used in each switch's top housing.
While the top housings differ in material, both switches share the same polycarbonate bottom housing. This commonality means that when pressing down on either switch, the bottom-out sound and feel is influenced by the polycarbonate's sharp and crisp sound profile. The polycarbonate's stiffer properties help ensure that both switches provide a clear and resonant experience at the point of actuation. This uniformity in bottom housing materials allows users to have similar bottom-out experiences across both switches, even if the top housing materials create differing sound profiles when releasing a key.
Ultimately, the contrasting materials of the KTT Phalaenopsis and HMX Silent Sakura - 53g create different auditory experiences in terms of their top and bottom housings. The nylon top in the Silent Sakura introduces a rounder sound, while the polycarbonate top in the Phalaenopsis allows for a sharper, more vibrant tone. However, with both featuring polycarbonate in the bottom housing, they offer similar acoustic outcomes during key presses. Therefore, if a user prioritizes bottom-out sound consistency while still wanting to explore distinct sound profiles, they can enjoy a unique auditory character by mixing and matching these two switches based on their individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch, there are some notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Phalaenopsis has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, while the Silent Sakura requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Phalaenopsis may offer a more effortless typing experience, making it ideal for those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. In terms of bottom out forces, the Phalaenopsis also has a lower bottom out force of 50 grams compared to the Silent Sakura’s 53 grams. Therefore, the Phalaenopsis is consistently lighter than the Silent Sakura across both metrics. Those who prefer a lighter switch for a quicker response might gravitate toward the Phalaenopsis, whereas users looking for a more substantial and tactile feel may appreciate the heavier Silent Sakura switch.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch feature the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressed, both switches will provide a similar tactile experience, moving the same distance from the top to the bottom. As a result, users can expect comparable key feel and responsiveness when using either switch, which would appeal to those who appreciate uniformity in their keyboard actions. The equivalence in travel distance highlights that regardless of their differing tactile or linear characteristics, both switches will deliver a consistent pressing experience.
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 - 53g 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
The KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch produces a rich and resonant sound profile, characterized by a deep and satisfying "thock" that evokes a sense of heft and fullness with each keystroke. This sound is often compared to the comforting thud of gentle knocking, making it ideal for users who enjoy a more bass-oriented auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g is designed to minimize noise, creating a whisper-quiet experience akin to the soft sound of raindrops. While the Silent Sakura does not have detailed sound descriptions provided, it is specifically engineered for those who prefer a low-noise typing environment. It's important to note that the actual sound produced can vary based on factors such as the keyboard construction and keycap materials used.
When it comes to the feel of these switches, the Phalaenopsis is notably structured with a stepped tactile profile that allows users to experience a distinct tactile bump as they type. This design gives feedback in two stages—one during the pre-travel and another upon activation—resulting in a satisfying and engaging typing experience that helps reduce finger fatigue during longer sessions. On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura offers no specific tactile feedback descriptor, but it is generally understood that linear switches provide a smooth keypress without the interjections of tactile bumps. For users who appreciate a consistent, uninterrupted stroke, the Silent Sakura will provide a pleasant typing experience, albeit with less physical feedback compared to the Phalaenopsis.
In conclusion, if you’re seeking a keyboard experience rich in sound and tactile feedback, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch will deliver a delightful auditory and physical experience characterized by its deep thock and stepped tactile feel. Conversely, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switch is an excellent choice for those focused on achieving a quieter typing environment with a smooth keystroke, ideal for shared spaces or late-night work sessions. While these switches cater to slightly different preferences, both can facilitate comfortable typing experiences depending on your priorities for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you're seeking an engaging and tactile typing experience with a light actuation force and the charm of a deep, thocky sound profile, the Phalaenopsis would be an excellent choice. Its light 37g actuation and 50g bottom-out force minimize fatigue during long working sessions, making it suitable for typists who appreciate both feedback and comfort. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quiet workspace and prefer linear switches, the Silent Sakura - 53g offers a smooth and satisfying keystroke with a slightly heavier bottom-out force of 53g. Its whisper-quiet performance is perfect for environments where noise can be a distraction, blessing you with a tactile response that's enjoyable without the audible click. In essence, choose the Phalaenopsis for a delightful, tactile typing experience that resonates with sound, or opt for the Silent Sakura for smooth, silent keystrokes that let you type freely in any setting.
Mentioned in this article
