Gateron Quinn vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 53g
An in-depth look at the Gateron Quinn and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly enhance the typing experience, and two popular options on the market today are the Gateron Quinn and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g. The Quinn switch is celebrated for its unique blend of tactile feedback and rich acoustics, providing typists with a snappy and polished feel accompanied by a deep, resonant sound profile that elevates the overall experience. This tactile switch is particularly appealing to those who enjoy a satisfying bump and auditory feedback with each keystroke, adding a bit of character to their typing routine. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 53g is engineered for those who seek a more subdued environment, featuring a whisper-quiet typing experience that feels gentle yet satisfying. With its balanced 53g bottom-out force, the Silent Sakura caters to users who prefer a smoother, linear action without the noise, making it an excellent choice for shared workspaces or late-night typing sessions. Both switches offer distinct advantages depending on your preferences, with the Quinn focusing on tactile engagement and sound while the Silent Sakura emphasizes quiet elegance. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Quinn and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g both utilize nylon for their top housing, which provides a foundational similarity in their build quality. This shared material contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile during typing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, effectively absorbs sound, leading to a duller and rounder auditory experience. This characteristic not only enhances the overall impact of typing but also creates a softer actuation feel, which many users appreciate for its comfort during extended typing sessions. Thus, type users can expect a comparable acoustic result when they utilize either switch, thanks to the consistent use of nylon in the top housing.
Conversely, the bottom housing materials differ significantly between the two switches, which enhances their overall sonic profiles. The Quinn employs nylon for its bottom housing as well, which complements the top housing's acoustic properties. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 53g features polycarbonate for its bottom housing. This choice shifts the sound production dynamics, as polycarbonate—being a more rigid plastic—produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Users might notice that while both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, the acoustic output when bottoming out will differ, with the Silent Sakura delivering a more resonant and lively sound due to its polycarbonate construction.
The interaction between these housing materials plays a crucial role in shaping the overall feel and sound output of the switches. The nylon bottoms of the Quinn will produce a softer bottom-out feel and sound, blending seamlessly with the nylon top for a more uniform auditory outcome. In contrast, the Silent Sakura’s polycarbonate bottom creates a distinct and varied experience; while the nylon top provides the foundational sound signature, the polycarbonate bottom adds brightness and clarity to the release sound when keys are pressed. This nuanced division between the acoustic contributions of each switch, stemming from their differing bottom housings, means that users seeking a deeper sound may prefer the Quinn, while those yearning for a sharper auditory feedback might gravitate towards the Silent Sakura.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Quinn switch features a relatively heavier actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, classifying it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the Silent Sakura switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, placing it in the medium-light category. This significant difference means that users who prefer a more substantial feel while typing may opt for the Quinn switch, while those who favor lighter switches for extended typing sessions might lean towards the Silent Sakura. Overall, the Quinn switch is the heavier option, making it less ideal for prolonged use compared to the easier-to-press Silent Sakura.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch, we find that the Quinn has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Silent Sakura - 53g features a travel distance of 4.0 mm. This means that the Quinn, with its shorter travel distance, offers a more responsive feel, which can be advantageous for gamers or those who prefer quicker key presses. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 53g, boasting a longer travel distance, may provide a more satisfying tactile experience for users who appreciate a deeper keystroke. Ultimately, if you're looking for a switch that allows for faster response times, the Gateron Quinn is the preferable choice. However, if you prefer a more substantial keypress experience, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g would be more suitable.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Quinn has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Quinn for $5.50.
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 it comes to sound, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offers a rich auditory experience that combines depth with clarity. Users will notice a deep, resonant tone paired with a snappy, crisp quality, making each keystroke feel significant. This sound profile is characterized by a low-pitched bassiness, creating an immersive environment for typing. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch is designed explicitly for a whisper-quiet experience, eliminating any audible feedback from each keystroke. The absence of a pronounced sound means that while the Quinn provides an engaging audio feedback that enhances the typing experience, the Silent Sakura focuses on maintaining a serene environment, which might appeal to those who value discretion.
Going beyond sound, the feel of the Gateron Quinn is marked by a responsive and lively typing experience. The snappy tactile bump gives typists a satisfying sense of engagement and feedback with each stroke. Users can expect a smooth ride through key presses thanks to its polished elements, complemented by a bouncy character that adds an element of fun to typing. Meanwhile, information about the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switch's physical feel remains unknown, making it harder to compare directly. However, since it is a linear switch, one could assume a smooth keystroke experience, though without the pronounced tactile feedback that the Quinn provides.
In summary, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch shines with a captivating sound and an engaging tactile feeling, tailored for those who love a rich auditory experience and an interactive typing sensation. The HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch, while silent and unobtrusive, may provide a smooth feel, albeit lacking the tactile bump of its counterpart. Your choice largely depends on whether you prioritize an engaging auditory and tactile experience over a serene typing environment. Both switches promise quality, but each caters to distinct typing preferences, ensuring you'll find satisfaction no matter which pathway you choose.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you enjoy a more tactile feedback with a medium-heavy feel and are drawn to a rich sound profile that includes elements of bass and clackiness, the Quinn is the ideal choice for you. Its snappy and polished feel, combined with a satisfying tactile bump, makes it excellent for both typing and gaming, especially in environments where auditory feedback is appreciated. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quieter typing experience—perhaps working in shared spaces or during late-night sessions—the Silent Sakura - 53g should be your go-to switch. With its medium-light resistance and smooth keystroke, it offers a whisper-quiet operation that retains a delightful tactile sensation without the noise. Ultimately, consider your typical use cases, the environment where you'll be typing, and whether you favor an impactful auditory experience or a serene, silent one.
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