TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 53g
An in-depth look at the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) and HMX Silent Sakura - 53g offer distinct experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) is a tactile switch that strikes a balance between satisfying feedback and subtlety; its medium tactile feel provides just the right amount of resistance for a precise typing experience while remaining remarkably quiet—an ideal choice for those in shared or office environments. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g is a linear switch known for its whisper-quiet operation, designed to replicate the soothing sound of raindrops while delivering a light yet satisfying keystroke thanks to its 53g bottom-out force. While the Silent Bluish White appeals to users who appreciate tactile feedback without the noise, the Silent Sakura caters to those who prefer a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for your typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g, it is evident that they utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings, which ultimately leads to distinct sound profiles. The Silent Bluish White (V2) features a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper and more resonant sound due to its stiffer plastic composition. This characteristic allows for a clearer high-pitched audio experience, especially beneficial when RGB lighting is involved, as the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the aesthetic appeal. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 53g employs a nylon top housing, which generates a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature. Nylon absorbs more sound and reduces resonance compared to polycarbonate, resulting in a rounded audio profile that some users may prefer for a more subdued typing experience.
Examining the bottom housings reveals a similar contrast, with the Silent Bluish White (V2) utilizing nylon while the Silent Sakura - 53g opts for polycarbonate. The nylon bottom housing of the Silent Bluish White (V2) contributes to a deeper sound impression, which enhances the overall acoustics when typing or bottoming out. Conversely, the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Silent Sakura - 53g provides that distinctive crispness, elevating the clarity of the sound produced during actuation. The combination of varying materials in both switches highlights how the sound and feel of a key press can be influenced by the distinct properties of each housing material, reflecting the broader acoustic characteristics of the respective switches.
Despite their differences, both switches can provide satisfactory typing experiences based on individual preferences, particularly due to the way their materials interact when pressed. Specifically, the top housing affects the sound profile upon release, while the bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound. Therefore, even though the Silent Bluish White (V2) and the Silent Sakura - 53g use contrasting materials in their constructions, both can offer a fulfilling experience depending on whether a user prefers a sharper or a deeper sound profile. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on personal taste, and either switch can yield satisfying results by tapping into the unique qualities of their respective housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch to the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces provide valuable insights into their respective typing experiences. The Silent Bluish White (V2) features an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it the lighter option overall. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura boasts a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as a medium-light switch. This means that although both switches are relatively light, the Silent Sakura requires a bit more force to engage and bottom out, providing a more substantial feel for those who prefer a stronger push. If one were to use both switches, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) would facilitate longer typing sessions with less effort, while the HMX Silent Sakura would satisfy users looking for a bit more resistance in their keystrokes.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch, a noticeable difference emerges. The Silent Bluish White (V2) has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Silent Sakura - 53g features a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that if you're looking for a switch with a shorter travel distance for quicker response times, the Silent Bluish White (V2) would be the better choice. Conversely, if you prefer a more pronounced depth in your keystrokes for a more substantial typing experience, the Silent Sakura - 53g would be more suitable due to its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your personal preferences for key feel and responsiveness during use.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Bluish White (V2) for $5.35.
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
The Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch is characterized by its muted sound profile, designed specifically to minimize noise, making it an excellent choice for those in shared environments like offices or homes. This switch generates a softer sound when compared to typical mechanical switches, allowing users to type without drawing attention. While details about the sound quality of the Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch are not specified, it is implied that its whisper-quiet design aligns with the goal of producing minimal noise during use, likely contributing to a similarly subtle aural experience.
When it comes to feel, the Silent Bluish White (V2) provides a buttery and mild tactile experience, characterized by a smooth keystroke that balances resistance and comfort. Descriptors like "stepped" indicate that it has a layered feedback, making each keystroke feel distinct yet not overly pronounced, which contributes to an approachable typing sensation. The presence of subtlety in its resistance enhances its ease of use, especially for long typing sessions. On the other hand, while the precise tactile characteristics of the Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch are not detailed, its design centers around a balanced 53g bottom-out force, catering to users who prefer a light but satisfying feel. This suggests a focus on a smooth and seamless typing experience as well.
Overall, both the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g offer unique qualities suited for different preferences in a typing experience. The Silent Bluish White excels with its tactile feedback and muted acoustics, while the Silent Sakura promises a whisper-quiet performance with a lighter touch. For typists who appreciate quieter operations and comfort, both switches can meet these needs effectively, ensuring a satisfying experience regardless of the specific switch chosen. If you're looking for a balance between sound and feel, either option would provide you with a similar result in a shared or quiet environment.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch, you should consider your specific typing needs and preferences. If you prioritize a tactile feedback experience that is suitably muted yet satisfying, and you often find yourself in quiet environments like offices or shared spaces, the Silent Bluish White (V2) would be an ideal choice. Its lighter bottom-out force of 50 grams makes it comfortable for prolonged typing sessions, and its buttery, polished feel will enhance your overall experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly firmer keystroke that still offers a whisper-quiet operation, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch may be more suited for you. With a bottom-out force of 53 grams, it strikes a balance between lightness and resistance, providing a smooth and steady typing experience akin to the gentle tapping of raindrops, which can be particularly satisfying during long writing sessions. Ultimately, consider the type of work you do and the environment you’re in when making your choice between these two excellent switches.
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