Akko V3 Piano Pro vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 53g
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g both offer unique experiences to cater to different typing preferences. The V3 Piano Pro is celebrated for its lively and crisp sound signature, thanks to its long pole design, which not only enhances the auditory feedback but also ensures a smooth actuation with each keystroke. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy a more dynamic and engaging typing experience, characterized by its 'bouncy' and 'clacky' qualities. On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g prioritizes a quiet and serene typing experience with its meticulously engineered construction that allows for a tactile feel without the distracting noise, making it perfect for those who work in shared spaces or prefer a calmer atmosphere. While the V3 Piano Pro indulges in a lively typing sensation, the Silent Sakura aims to create a tranquil environment with its gentle resistance. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g, a significant similarity is found in their top housing; both utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material. This choice impacts the acoustic properties of both switches, resulting in more profound and fuller sound profiles. The intrinsic qualities of nylon, being a softer plastic, allow it to absorb sound effectively, producing a duller and rounder acoustic effect. As a result, users can expect a smooth typing experience regardless of the switch; the nylon material in the top housing promotes a softer sound signature, contributing to a luxurious typing feel.
In contrast, the bottom housing materials diverge fundamentally between the two switches, leading to distinct sound profiles. The V3 Piano Pro employs nylon for its bottom housing as well, mirroring the qualities found in its top housing. This consistency in material allows for a seamless, rounded sound experience throughout the entire switch, further enhancing the overall depth of the sound when typing. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 53g utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing, a stiffer plastic that presents a sharper and crisper sound profile. This difference contributes to a more pronounced and resonant acoustic performance, particularly when bottoming out the keys, thereby creating a unique contrast between the two switches.
Ultimately, the combined effects of the switch housing materials lead to different user experiences. The Akko V3 Piano Pro maintains a cohesive sound profile, blending the deeper acoustic qualities of nylon across both the top and bottom housings. Meanwhile, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g achieves a more complex auditory texture due to the contrasting materials, producing a brighter sound when bottoming out, yet softened on release due to its nylon top housing. This combination allows for distinct typing sensations, yet both switches can still elicit satisfaction from users who appreciate auditory feedback while typing, albeit through different tonal characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch, both exhibit an actuation force of 45 grams, meaning users will experience a similar resistance when initially pressing down on the keys. However, the bottom out forces differ, with the V3 Piano Pro requiring 55 grams to bottom out, while the Silent Sakura bottoms out at a lighter 53 grams. This distinction makes the Silent Sakura slightly better suited for those who prefer a lighter overall feel during extended typing or gaming sessions, whereas the V3 Piano Pro provides a more substantial feedback when fully pressed down, appealing to users who enjoy a firmer push-through experience. Overall, the Silent Sakura is the lighter option when considering the bottom out force, while the V3 Piano Pro is the heavier choice.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch, we can see some notable differences. The V3 Piano Pro has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Silent Sakura - 53g features a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This puts the V3 Piano Pro in the category of shorter travel distances, which may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura - 53g with its 4 mm travel distance offers a more traditional feel, which some users may prefer for a sense of depth and a more substantial keystroke experience. Ultimately, the decision between these switches depends on individual preferences for responsiveness versus a hearty depth during keypresses.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Piano Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Piano Pro for $3.10.
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
When comparing the sound profiles of the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switches, there is a clear distinction. The V3 Piano Pro is celebrated for its clacky and resonant sound signature, producing a lively, crisp auditory experience with each keystroke. This sharp and percussive sound creates an engaging typing atmosphere, appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 53g’s sound profile is engineered to deliver a whisper-quiet experience, effectively minimizing noise while typing. This serene sound can be compared to the gentle patter of raindrops, making it ideal for environments where discretion is preferred. While both switches can create enjoyable typing experiences, the V3 Piano Pro is more suited for those who appreciate auditory feedback, while the Silent Sakura appeals to those seeking silence.
In terms of feel, the Akko V3 Piano Pro presents a uniquely engaging tactile experience characterized by its bouncy, creamy, and polished qualities. Users can expect a lively, spring-like feedback upon pressing the keys along with a smooth, buttery sensation that allows for an effortless typing experience. The polished nature of these switches enhances the key travel, resulting in reduced friction and a refined touch. Meanwhile, specific information about the feel of the Silent Sakura - 53g is unknown, but one can expect that the switch is designed to cater to comfort, given its focus on providing a satisfying and lightweight typing experience. While the V3 Piano Pro offers a more dynamic tactile feedback, the Silent Sakura's design leans towards optimal comfort, making it likely suitable for long typing sessions.
Overall, the choice between the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch boils down to individual preferences regarding sound and feel. If you enjoy lively, resonant acoustics and an engaging touch, the V3 Piano Pro would be the ideal choice. Conversely, for those who favor a quieter typing experience with likely a gentle, satisfying keystroke, the Silent Sakura could be the better option. Both switches provide distinct experiences that cater to different typing preferences while ensuring comfort and responsiveness in their respective designs.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch, it’s essential to consider your typing environment and preferences. If you enjoy a lively and sharp auditory experience with each keystroke, the V3 Piano Pro is the better choice. Its resonant and clacky sound profile, paired with a smooth and bouncy feel, creates an engaging and dynamic typing experience. This switch is ideal for those who don’t mind a bit of noise and appreciate that auditory feedback in their keystrokes, making it great for creative typing tasks or for those who simply enjoy an expressive typing sound. On the other hand, if you type in a shared space or prefer a quieter experience, then the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switch will serve you well. With its subtly satisfying keystroke and a bottom-out force of 53 grams, it delivers a whisper-quiet operation, ideal for focused work environments where minimal sound is paramount. Overall, the choice boils down to whether you favor an expressive, lively feel and sound versus a serene, unobtrusive typing experience, and your specific usage needs will guide you in making the best decision.
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