KTT Purple Star vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 53g
An in-depth look at the KTT Purple Star 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 Purple Star and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switches both offer unique advantages that cater to different typing preferences. The Purple Star switches, renowned for their all-POM construction, provide a smoothly gliding experience punctuated by a mild, low-pitched sound signature, making them an excellent choice for light typists seeking comfort and ease. Their relatively light 45g bottom-out force allows for quick and effortless keystrokes, ideal for those who type rapidly. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches are engineered for those who desire a quiet yet reassuring stroke. With a balanced 53g bottom-out force, they provide a satisfying feedback and a whisper-quiet operation, reminiscent of raindrops. This can be particularly appealing for office environments or late-night gaming sessions where noise levels matter. While both switches are linear and cater to a smooth typing experience, the choice ultimately depends on whether you prioritize the lighter touch of the Purple Star or the slightly heftier, more muted feedback of the Silent Sakura. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.80 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
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
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 examining the housing materials of the KTT Purple Star and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches, it's clear that there are significant differences in the composition and properties of these materials. The Purple Star uses POM for both its top and bottom housings, resulting in a consistent sound profile characterized by depth and a muted quality. This uniformity in material allows for a cohesive acoustic performance, leading to a unique sound that tends to be more pleasant and less piercing. In contrast, the Silent Sakura employs a blend of nylon for its top housing and polycarbonate for the bottom. While nylon contributes a deeper and fuller sound profile, the polycarbonate bottom housing offers a sharper, crisper sound, leading to a distinctly different auditory experience from the Purple Star. These contrasting materials contribute varied sonic characteristics to each switch.
The differences in housing materials also affect the tactile experience when typing. For instance, with the KTT Purple Star, the use of POM provides a consistent feel throughout the key press and release, as both the top and bottom housings are made from the same material. This creates a smooth and predictable tactile feedback, enhancing the overall user experience. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura's combination of nylon and polycarbonate means that the feel of the switch will depend to a considerable extent on the material of the bottom housing during bottom-out, while the nylon top may contribute a unique quality when releasing the key. As a result, users may notice a more complex tactile sensation with the Silent Sakura compared to the more straightforward feel of the Purple Star.
Despite these differences, both the KTT Purple Star and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g can still yield similar results in terms of sound and typing experience, albeit through different pathways. They are both designed to provide pleasant audio feedback, albeit with different tonal qualities. Users seeking a deeper, fuller sound profile may appreciate both switches, though the experience will differ, with the Purple Star delivering a more muted quality while the Silent Sakura offers a clearer, higher-pitched sound due to the polycarbonate material. For enthusiasts looking to achieve customized acoustics or specific tactile feedback, these distinctions provide a range of options—ultimately ensuring that, while they exhibit different characteristics, both switches can fulfill similar roles in enhancing the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Purple Star linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Purple Star features an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option suitable for those who prefer easier key presses for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Silent Sakura has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, classifying it as medium-light. This means that while both switches are on the lighter side, the Purple Star is easier to press down, making it ideal for users seeking a softer feel. Ultimately, if you are looking for a switch that allows for longer periods of use with less effort, the KTT Purple Star would be the better choice; however, if you appreciate a bit more resistance in your keystrokes, the HMX Silent Sakura may be more appealing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Purple Star linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch, there is a notable difference: the Purple Star has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Silent Sakura - 53g has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Purple Star provides a shorter distance, which can be advantageous for gamers seeking quicker response times. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura’s longer travel distance offers a more pronounced depth, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial keystroke feel. Ultimately, if you lean towards a more responsive experience, the KTT Purple Star would be the way to go; however, if you appreciate the sensation of a deeper press, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g would suit you better.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Silent Sakura - 53g has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Sakura - 53g for $2.99.
The KTT Purple Star comes in at $4.88 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 it comes to sound, the KTT Purple Star linear switches offer a low-pitched sound profile, producing a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is soft on the ears. This unique quality makes them suitable for quiet environments where noisy keystrokes could be distracting. On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g, while also designed for a quiet experience, is described as delivering a whisper-quiet sound reminiscent of gentle raindrops tapping against a window. This indicates that both switches prioritize minimal auditory disruption, but the Purple Star presents a more traditional low-frequency response, whereas the Silent Sakura aims for a more delicate and calming auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the KTT Purple Star switches are characterized by their mild and easy-to-press design. The gentle resistance during key presses ensures a comfortable and effortless typing experience, making these switches particularly suited for light typists or those who may spend long hours at the keyboard. The combination of a low actuation force and a smooth travel path contributes to the overall typing comfort. In contrast, the feel of the Silent Sakura - 53g is not explicitly detailed, but given their emphasis on a balanced bottom-out force, one can expect a satisfying keystroke that complements light typing preferences as well. Therefore, while the Purple Star clearly defines their feel qualities, the Silent Sakura likely offers a comfortable experience that aligns with the needs of typists seeking a balanced approach.
In conclusion, both the KTT Purple Star and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switches are tailored for individuals who appreciate a quieter typing experience. While the Purple Star emphasizes a smooth, low-pitched sound and a mild, easy-to-press feel, the Silent Sakura focuses on creating a soothing auditory experience with a balanced actuation force. If you seek a satisfying, comfortable typing experience with minimal noise disruption, either switch could serve you well, providing a pleasant typing experience that aligns with your preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the KTT Purple Star linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and specific typing needs. If you’re someone who enjoys a buttery smooth typing experience with a very light bottom-out force of 50 grams, the KTT Purple Star will be your best bet. This switch is particularly well-suited for light typists who value ease and comfort in their keystrokes, making it ideal for extended typing sessions where you want to minimize finger fatigue. Its low-pitched sound signature ensures that your typing remains discreet without being overly loud, offering a pleasant auditory experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a bit more resistance with a satisfying keystroke, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g is an excellent choice. With a slightly heavier 53 grams bottom-out force, it provides a balanced feel that still caters to those who want a quiet operation. Its design focuses on a whisper-quiet performance, making it perfect for shared spaces or environments where noise distractions could be an issue. Overall, both switches offer distinct advantages, and considering your typing style and environment will help you make the right choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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