Huano Sakura vs. TTC Silent Frozen (V2)
An in-depth look at the Huano Sakura and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, personal preference plays a significant role, and two noteworthy options are the Huano Sakura and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2), both of which are linear switches. The Huano Sakura is celebrated for its feather-light touch and medium acoustics, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy extended typing sessions without the fatigue that can come from heavier switches. In contrast, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) offers an exceptionally quiet sound profile, which is perfect for environments where noise reduction is crucial, while also delivering a super smooth and pillowy typing experience. While the Sakura might appeal to typists looking for a responsive yet gentle touch, the Silent Frozen (V2) caters to those who desire a more muted and refined keypress. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the crucial switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
39g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Spring
Silver white spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the Huano Sakura switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switch illustrate a clear contrast in their design philosophies, particularly in terms of sound profile and tactile experience. The Huano Sakura utilizes a POK material for its top housing, characterized by a smooth texture and a slightly higher coefficient of friction (0.04) compared to other materials like LY. This contributes to the switch's overall durability and gives it a smooth, clacky sound profile. In stark contrast, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) employs polycarbonate for its top housing, offering a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. The result is that the Sakura produces a more well-rounded auditory experience, while the Silent Frozen boasts clarity and brightness in sound, heavily influenced by the materials used at the top of each switch.
Examining the bottom housings, the differences continue. The Huano Sakura features a nylon bottom housing, known for its ability to absorb sound, thereby creating a deeper, fuller acoustic response. This softer material tends to produce a rounder sound, which provides a contrasting balance to the sharper notes of the POK top housing. Conversely, the Silent Frozen (V2) also uses polycarbonate for its bottom housing. This choice aligns with its top housing material, allowing it to maintain a consistent high-pitched and resonant sound profile. Thus, when pressing down on the switches, the Sakura delivers a warm sound experience, while the Silent Frozen emphasizes sharpness throughout the entirety of the keystroke.
Ultimately, the hybrid material compositions lead to different sound characteristics that inform user preference in switches. The Sakura's blend of POK and nylon is fashioned for those seeking to achieve a distinct auditory experience marked by smoothness and depth. In contrast, the silent efficacy of the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) creates a cohesive, crisp sound profile, ideal for those prioritizing sharp sound clarity. Despite their differences, both switches can deliver satisfying results, and if users desire similar outcomes, careful selection and tuning of switch components can bridge the acoustic gaps, focusing on the impact of the bottom housing on bottom-out sounds and the influence of the top housing on key release sounds.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Sakura linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Sakura switch features a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it more suitable for prolonged use in typing or gaming due to reduced finger fatigue. In contrast, the Silent Frozen (V2) has a slightly heavier actuation force of 39 grams, but a lower bottom out force of 43 grams. While both switches are categorized as light, the Sakura’s lower actuation force makes it the lighter option overall, favoring users who prefer a softer touch. Meanwhile, the Silent Frozen's slightly heavier actuation may appeal to those seeking a bit more resistance. Users should consider their personal preferences regarding typing feel and longevity when choosing between these two switches.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Sakura linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch, we see a slight difference. The Sakura features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the longer option, while the Silent Frozen (V2) has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter by just a millimeter. This minimal difference can lead to varied user experiences; those who favor responsiveness may gravitate towards the Silent Frozen (V2) for its reduced travel, which may facilitate quicker key presses. Conversely, the Sakura’s additional millimeter can provide a more substantial depth that some users might prefer for a more tactile feel. In summary, choosing between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for either a snappier response with the Silent Frozen (V2) or a deeper travel experience with the Sakura.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Sakura has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sakura for $3.29.
The TTC Silent Frozen (V2) has an MSRP of $8.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Frozen (V2) for $5.33.
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 Huano Sakura linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch, the differences become apparent. The Sakura switch has a medium acoustic profile, which means it produces a satisfying sound that isn't overly loud—ideal for those who appreciate a balance between audible feedback and a less disruptive typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen (V2) boasts an extremely quiet sound, featuring a thocky, low-pitched, and muted quality. This makes it particularly suitable for environments where noise reduction is crucial, such as shared workspaces or late-night gaming sessions. While both switches can deliver decent auditory experiences, the Sakura leans toward a moderate sound level, whereas the Silent Frozen (V2) prioritizes silence.
When it comes to tactile feel, the Sakura switch is known for providing a feather-light touch, making it incredibly comfortable for extended typing sessions. This quality allows for reduced finger fatigue, which is particularly beneficial for heavy users. The TTC Silent Frozen (V2) impresses with its creamy, buttery, and polished feel that glides smoothly under the fingers. The cushioned sensation contributes to a relaxed typing experience, while its subtle resistance and feathery touch make it inviting for longer use. While both switches focus on offering comfort during extended typing periods, the Sakura emphasizes a lighter actuation force, while the Silent Frozen (V2) excels with its smoothness.
In conclusion, both the Huano Sakura linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch serve specific preferences within the linear switch category. The Sakura offers a balanced sound profile suitable for everyday use with a feather-light feel that encourages long typing sessions. In contrast, the Silent Frozen (V2) delivers an ultra-quiet experience, with a creamy and plush feel ideal for those who desire a silent operation without sacrificing smoothness. Ultimately, your choice between these two will hinge on whether you prioritize a lightweight and medium audible typing experience or a super-silent, buttery sensation.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Huano Sakura linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch, your specific needs and preferences should guide your decision. If you’re someone who enjoys a feather-light touch with a medium level of acoustics, making it easier to type for extended periods without fatigue, the Sakura switch would be an excellent choice. Its slightly higher bottom-out force of 45 grams ensures that you have enough feedback to avoid accidental key presses, while its sound profile is pleasant enough to coexist in quieter environments. Conversely, if you prioritize a nearly silent typing experience, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) is ideal for you. With a bottom-out force of just 43 grams, it offers a smooth, creamy feel and muted acoustics perfect for shared spaces, allowing you to type away without drawing attention. Ultimately, the key factors when deciding between the two are your typing environment, whether you need a bit more auditory feedback, and how much resistance you prefer during typing.
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