Huano Sakura vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 43g
An in-depth look at the Huano Sakura and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Huano Sakura and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g exemplify the diverse options available to enhance your typing experience. The Huano Sakura, known for its feather-light touch and medium acoustics, is an excellent choice for those who engage in prolonged typing sessions, marrying comfort with a satisfying tactile feedback that encourages fluid keystrokes. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g prioritizes a whisper-quiet typing experience, designed for light typists who value tranquility; its ultra-light 43g bottom out force provides a gentle touch that minimizes auditory distractions, making it ideal for shared workspaces or quiet environments. Both switches cater to different preferences, offering unique benefits that appeal to a variety of users. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
37g
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
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
POK
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Huano Sakura and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches showcase a distinct contrast between the types of plastics used for their top and bottom housings, ultimately influencing the overall typing experience and sound profile of each switch. The Huano Sakura employs a polyketone (POK) top housing, characterized by its low coefficient of friction and impressive durability. The POK material not only provides a smooth typing experience but also enhances clackiness, resulting in a lively auditory feedback. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g features a nylon top housing, which, while classic and dependable, yields a different sound signature. The nylon absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, leading to a deeper and fuller auditory experience, thereby providing a more muted response when typing.
Examining the bottom housings reveals another layer of differentiation between these two switches. The Huano Sakura utilizes a nylon bottom housing, mirroring the softer characteristics of its top counterpart. This choice contributes to a cohesive sound profile that emphasizes warmth and richness during typing. On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing. This material's rigidity generates a higher-pitched and crisper sound that plays well with its top housing, further enhancing the sharpness in sound when typing. Thus, the contrasting choices of nylon and polycarbonate not only serve to diversify the auditory feedback of each switch but also deepens user engagement based on personal preferences.
Despite their differences in materials, it is important to note that both the Huano Sakura and HMX Silent Sakura - 43g can deliver satisfying typing experiences based on how each housing’s qualities interact. For example, a user typing on the Huano Sakura will experience a cohesive, balanced auditory signature due to the harmony between the POK top and nylon bottom housing. In the case of the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g, the combination of a nylon top and polycarbonate bottom yields a fascinating contrast in sound; the top offers a mellow touch, while the bottom asserts a crisper feedback. Ultimately, while the materials differ, both switches utilize their respective housing materials effectively to create unique typing sensations and sound profiles that cater to various user preferences.
Weight
The Huano Sakura linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch both exhibit relatively light weights, appealing to users who favor extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. The Huano Sakura has an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Silent Sakura - 43g has a slightly higher actuation force of 37 grams and a lower bottom out force of 43 grams. This means that while the actuation forces are close, the Huano Sakura is lighter at the actuation stage and provides a more pronounced bottom out sensation. The Silent Sakura, on the other hand, requires slightly more effort to actuate but guarantees a softer stop when pressed fully down, making it a lighter option overall in terms of bottom out force. For those who prefer a heavier typing feel, neither of these switches will satisfy that preference, but users will still experience distinct differences between the tactile feedback and resistance throughout their keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Huano Sakura linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that if you opt for the Huano Sakura, you'll experience a more responsive feel due to its shorter travel distance, which is often favored by gamers for quicker actuation. On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g's 4 mm travel distance may provide a more traditional typing experience, offering a bit more depth that some users prefer for a fuller tactile feedback. Thus, if you're looking for a snappier response, the Huano Sakura is the better choice, while the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g caters to those who appreciate a more substantial keypress.
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 HMX Silent Sakura - 43g 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
The Huano Sakura linear switch produces a medium acoustic profile, making it suitable for extended typing sessions without contributing excessively to noise. While it might not be the quietest option available, it strikes a balance that allows for a satisfying audio feedback without being disruptive. On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switch is specifically designed for a whisper-quiet experience, reminiscent of gentle raindrops. This makes it ideal for environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum, suitable for both office settings and shared spaces. Both switches’ sound profiles can also be affected by factors like the choice of keyboard and keycap materials, which should be considered when aiming for a particular auditory experience.
When evaluating the feel of the two switches, the Huano Sakura provides a feather-light touch that enhances the typing experience, lending itself to quick repetitive key presses without unnecessary effort. It ensures that users won’t tire easily during long typing sessions. Meanwhile, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g offers an ultra-light actuation force that caters specifically to light typists, making it effortlessly responsive. This allows for a tactile experience that encourages a comfortable typing rhythm, although it may lack some of the tactile distinction found in more pronounced switches.
In summary, while the Huano Sakura and HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches have distinct characteristics, they both cater to different preferences in sound and feel. If you enjoy a medium-sound linear switch that performs well for extended periods, the Sakura is a solid choice. Conversely, if you prioritize a quiet and feather-light touch, the Silent Sakura - 43g will suit your needs perfectly. Ultimately, your experience with either switch will depend on your typing style and the environment in which you use them.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Huano Sakura linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch should ultimately depend on your typing style and environment. If you appreciate a satisfying balance between a light touch and a mildly engaging auditory experience, the Sakura switch, with its 45g bottom out force, might be the better option for you. Its medium acoustics provide feedback that many typists find enjoyable and motivating during extended typing sessions. Alternatively, if you prefer a quieter workspace and need to minimize noise disruption, particularly in shared or professional settings, the Silent Sakura - 43g would be ideal. This switch offers a slightly lighter bottom out force of 43g and is specifically designed for a whisper-quiet experience, making it perfect for those who enjoy a soft touch without the distraction of sound. In essence, consider your priorities—whether it’s the tactile feedback and sound of the standard Sakura or the serene silence of the Silent Sakura—to choose the switch that best enhances your typing experience.
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