Huano Sakura vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear

Overview

When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Sakura and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear present intriguing options for typists and gamers alike, each offering distinct advantages. The Huano Sakura is renowned for its feather-light touch and medium acoustics, making it an excellent choice for those who engage in extended typing sessions, as it helps reduce finger fatigue without sacrificing feedback. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear stands out with its innovative design, featuring a notably whisper-quiet topping-out sound paired with a clacky bottom-out for a unique auditory experience. Its silky smooth feel strikes a balance between being polished and responsive, appealing to users seeking a subtle yet satisfying keystroke. While the Sakura prioritizes comfort and endurance, the Semi-Silent Linear offers auditory versatility and a refined typing sensation. 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

Huano Sakura Linear

Jwick Semi-Silent Linear Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$6.50

$5.27 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Sakura and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches, a notable contrast can be seen in their top housings. The Sakura utilizes POK (polyketone) for its top housing, which is recognized for its low coefficient of friction, durability, and excellent shock resistance. This combination results in a smooth feel during typing, as well as a clacky sound profile that many typists appreciate. In contrast, the Semi-Silent Linear employs polycarbonate for its top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound. This material's rigidity enhances the acoustic feedback of the switch, creating a clearer resonant sound, particularly suited for users who favor a more pronounced auditory response. While both materials aim to enhance the typing experience, they do so in distinctly different ways—favoring either a smooth tactile response or a crisp sound profile.

On the other hand, both switches share the same bottom housing material: nylon. This alignment signifies a homogeneous element in their construction, as nylon is celebrated for its ability to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics. Consequently, both the Huano Sakura and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to their nylon bottom housings. This shared characteristic suggests that, irrespective of the differing top housings, both switches offer a consistent auditory experience at the point of actuation. Because the bottom housing plays a crucial role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel, the nylon material ensures a level of acoustic harmony, allowing users to enjoy a more subdued yet rich auditory sensation during use.

Overall, while the top housing materials of the two switches introduce contrasting qualities that influence sound and typing dynamics, the shared nylon bottom housing creates cohesion in the sound profile they generate. Users can expect a distinctive typing experience depending on their choice of top housing material—smooth and clacky for the Sakura versus sharp and resonant for the Jwick. Yet, regardless of these differences, both switches' nylon bottoms ensure a fuller sound experience, making them appealing options for those prioritizing sound quality in their typing endeavors. The amalgamation of these materials ultimately allows for a variety of personalized feedback, catering to diverse preferences among typists.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Huano Sakura linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch, there are notable differences that cater to various preferences among users. The Sakura switch features a light actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a great option for those who type for extended periods or prefer a lighter feel, particularly in an office or gaming environment. In contrast, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch has an unspecified actuation force but boasts a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, indicating a more substantial push feel. This makes the Jwick switch better suited for users who enjoy a stronger tactile experience while typing. Ultimately, users seeking a light switch should lean towards the Huano Sakura, while those who favor a heavier touch may find the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear more to their liking. If the actuation force of the Semi-Silent Linear switch were known, further comparisons could be drawn, but as it stands, the differences in bottom out force highlight the unique characteristics of each switch.

Travel distance

The Huano Sakura linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that when comparing the two, the Sakura switch offers a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers and those looking for quicker response times. The Semi-Silent Linear, with its longer travel distance, might be favored by users who appreciate a more pronounced depth in their key presses. Therefore, while both switches provide a relatively short travel distance in the context of traditional switch standards, the Sakura’s 3.6 mm travel length positions it as the more responsive option compared to the 3.7 mm travel distance of the Semi-Silent Linear.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In the realm of sound, the Huano Sakura switch offers a medium acoustic profile, striking a balance that can be comfortably utilized in various settings, including both home and office environments. Although not overly loud, it retains a certain presence that welcomes an immersive typing experience during extended use. In contrast, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is characterized by its subtly subdued sound, providing a whisper-quiet topping-out experience. This switch showcases a clacky bottom-out noise, distinguishing it from the more neutral presence of the Sakura. While the Semi-Silent Linear may not be completely silent, its tempered acoustics make it an appealing choice for those who prefer a quieter workspace without sacrificing feedback during use.

When we examine the feel of these two switches, the distinctions become even more significant. The Huano Sakura switch provides a feather-light touch, allowing for effortless keystrokes that minimize fatigue during long typing sessions. Although specific descriptors for its tactile feedback may be limited, it encompasses a pleasant typing experience. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear excels in delivering a silky smooth tactile sensation that remains responsive, thanks to its snappy characteristics. It is designed to offer a mild typing experience that's approachable for users at any skill level, while also possessing buttery smoothness and a polished finish that enhances keystroke quality. This combination ensures that each press feels refined and satisfying.

In conclusion, both the Huano Sakura and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches present unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Sakura provides a balanced medium acoustic experience with a light pressure requirement, ideal for prolonged typing without discomfort. Meanwhile, the Semi-Silent Linear offers an innovative semi-silent acoustics profile that combines a smooth and responsive feel with a unique clacky bottom-out sound. While both switches are well-designed for different typing experiences—ranging from medium and light to refined and responsive—the choice ultimately hinges on individual user preference and intended use case, as both can deliver delightful typing experiences in their own right.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Huano Sakura linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize a light touch for extended typing sessions and prefer a more lively acoustic profile, the Sakura's 45-gram actuation force and medium sound make it an excellent choice. Its feather-light feel ensures comfort during prolonged use, which is ideal for typing enthusiasts or those who spend long hours at their keyboards. On the other hand, if you're looking for a more balanced switch that combines a higher actuation force of 62 grams with a unique acoustic signature, the Semi-Silent Linear might be more suited to your style. With its subdued sound and buttery smooth typing experience, it caters well to environments where noise is a concern but where you still want some auditory feedback when typing. Overall, your choice should reflect how you plan to use your keyboard—whether for casual use, intense gaming, or an office setting—ensuring you find the switch that enhances your typing experience just the way you want it.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Sakura Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Jwick Semi-Silent Linear Linear

$6.50

$5.27 per 10

Learn more