TTC Silent Frozen (V2) vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 53g
An in-depth look at the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) and HMX Silent Sakura - 53g both offer intriguing options, yet cater to slightly different typing preferences. The Silent Frozen (V2) is celebrated for its ultra-quiet sound profile paired with a uniquely smooth and pillowy feel, making it an attractive choice for those who seek a muted yet satisfying typing experience. Its characterizations—such as 'thocky', 'creamy', and 'buttery'—provide a serene atmosphere ideal for quiet office settings or late-night gaming sessions. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g promises a whisper-soft keystroke reminiscent of gentle raindrops, striking a balance with its 53g bottom-out force that appeals to typists who enjoy a lighter touch without sacrificing feedback. Both switches prioritize making minimal noise, yet their distinctive tactile qualities can greatly influence your overall typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
39g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
43g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Silver white spring
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g, distinct differences emerge, particularly in their top housing materials. The Silent Frozen (V2) employs a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for generating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness and clarity. This material is particularly advantageous for users who favor RGB lighting, as its translucency enhances the aesthetic experience. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 53g utilizes a nylon top housing that produces a deeper, fuller sound profile. The nylon's softer characteristics allow it to absorb more sound, resulting in a rounder acoustic quality, which may appeal to typists looking for a more muted auditory experience.
Analyzing the bottom housings, both the Silent Frozen (V2) and Silent Sakura - 53g incorporate polycarbonate, contributing to a consistent sound quality in respective key presses. The parallel construction in the bottom housings means that regardless of the difference in the top housings, users can expect a sharper and crisper bottom-out sound from both switches. Polycarbonate's inherent stiffness leads to a recognizable clarity, enhancing the typing experience, particularly when bottoming out. While both housings contribute to a cohesive auditory profile, the synergy between the softer nylon top of the Silent Sakura and the polycarbonate bottom allows for a unique blending of sound properties, yielding a different overall experience.
Ultimately, the complementary nature of the materials in both switches significantly influences the auditory results and tactile feel. The Silent Frozen (V2), with its polycarbonate top and bottom, will deliver a more uniform sound characterized by its crispness, suitable for RGB setups. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 53g showcases a unique combination of materials, merging the deep resonance from the nylon top with the bright clarity of the polycarbonate bottom. This distinct pairing creates a rich auditory spectrum that caters to diverse user preferences. Thus, while the Silent Frozen (V2) may excel in sharper acoustics, the Silent Sakura provides a balanced interplay of sound depth and clarity, enabling users to select a switch that resonates with their individual typing style.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch, there are distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Silent Frozen (V2) has a lighter actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a softer touch for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 53g requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, placing it in the medium-light category. As such, the HMX Silent Sakura switch might offer a more substantial feel, which can be appealing to users who favor a firmer response while typing. Overall, the Silent Frozen (V2) is the lighter switch, while the Silent Sakura is the heavier option, catering to different preferences in typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch measures 3.5 mm, making it a shorter option compared to the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch, which boasts a travel distance of 4 mm. This difference implies that those who prefer a more responsive keystroke, such as gamers, may lean towards the Silent Frozen (V2) for its quicker activation. Conversely, the Silent Sakura - 53g offers a more traditional and deeper travel experience, likely appealing to users who enjoy a more substantial keystroke feel. While both switches serve their purpose well, the choice between them hinges on personal preference regarding tactile feedback and responsiveness; if you prefer a swift reaction, the Silent Frozen (V2) is ideal, whereas the Silent Sakura may be better for those who appreciate more depth in their key presses.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
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
In terms of sound, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) offers a notably low-pitched and muted audio profile, characterized by a thocky resonance upon activation. This deep, rich sound creates a more immersive typing atmosphere, one that is soft and pleasant, akin to a gentle "thud" rather than a sharper clack. This tailored design minimizes the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards, making it suitable for quiet environments. Although the sound profile of the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g is not specified, it is noted to deliver a whisper-quiet typing experience. This suggests that while the exact auditory traits may vary, both switches are designed to prioritize minimal noise production, making them excellent choices for shared spaces or environments that demand discretion.
When it comes to feel, the Silent Frozen (V2) is quite luxurious, described with words like creamy, buttery, feathery, and polished. This indicates that the switch provides an exceptionally smooth typing experience, requiring minimal effort for actuation, which is beneficial for prolonged typing sessions. The combination of a polished finish and light resistance contributes to a seamless, enjoyable experience that glides effortlessly with each keystroke. Conversely, the tactile qualities of the Silent Sakura - 53g have not been elaborated upon, leaving a gap in understanding its tactile feedback and sensation. Nonetheless, given that both switches are designed with silence in mind, one might reasonably expect the Silent Sakura to also provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, albeit with unknown specifics.
Overall, both the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g present appealing options for newcomers seeking a quiet typing solution. While the Silent Frozen excels in providing a thocky, muted sound and a buttery smooth feel, the Silent Sakura holds promise for those who appreciate a whisper-quiet experience, although its exact qualities remain unspecified. If the Silent Sakura's feel aligns with its sound profile, one could expect a similarly pleasant typing experience, though the richness and depth of sound might vary between the two switches. Ultimately, for quiet enthusiasts, either switch is a viable selection, depending on personal preference for sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To wrap up, choosing between the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you favor a notably lighter keystroke with an incredibly soft and muted sound profile for a whisper-quiet typing experience, the Silent Frozen (V2) is your best bet. Its 43g actuation force offers effortless key presses, making it ideal for long typing sessions, whether you're working or gaming in a shared environment where noise minimization is crucial. On the other hand, if you appreciate a slightly more substantial feedback with a balanced feel, the Silent Sakura - 53g switch is a solid choice. With a 53g bottom-out force, it strikes a comfortable medium-light balance that provides a satisfying, tactile experience while still maintaining quiet operation. In essence, the Silent Frozen (V2) excels in providing a super smooth, light, and feathery feel, while the Silent Sakura - 53g offers a refined typing experience without sacrificing sound dampening. Your ultimate choice will hinge on whether you prioritize weight or a bit more tactile affirmation in every keystroke.
Mentioned in this article
