TTC Silent Red vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 43g

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Silent Red and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g present two compelling options for users who value a quiet yet satisfying typing experience. The Silent Red switches are renowned for their buttery smoothness and muted sound profile, making them an ideal choice for office environments or shared spaces where noise minimization is crucial. Their consistent feel and padded bottom-out provide an elevated level of comfort, perfect for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura switches cater to light typists with their ultra-light 43g bottom-out force, creating a serene typing environment reminiscent of gentle raindrops. While both switches emphasize silence and a smooth feel, the Silent Reds cater to those who appreciate a plush tactile experience, whereas the Silent Sakuras are tailored for those seeking lightness and agility in their keystrokes. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

TTC Silent Red Linear

HMX Silent Sakura - 43g Linear

$5.28

$4.38 per 10

$3.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The TTC Silent Red and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g exhibit notable differences in their housing materials, which influence the overall sound profiles and tactile experiences they offer. The Silent Red features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness, which contributes to a sharper and higher-pitched sound. This results in a crisper auditory feedback when pressing the keys, making the switch well-suited for those who prefer a more resonant keystroke. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g comes with a nylon top housing that is softer and absorbs sound more effectively, generating a deeper, fuller tone during typing. Therefore, while the Silent Reds provide clarity and brightness, the Silent Sakura switches create a more muted, rounded sound, appealing to users who favor a subtler noise profile.

On the bottom housing front, the TTC Silent Red also employs nylon, while the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g uses polycarbonate. Here, the properties of the materials play a crucial role in shaping both the sound and feel. The nylon bottom of the Silent Red enhances the depth of the sound profile, providing a plush bottom-out experience that minimizes noise. Meanwhile, the polycarbonate bottom of the Silent Sakura injects a sharper quality into the typing experience, leading to a more resonant bottoming out. This duality in materials means that when using these switches, one can expect contrasting auditory sensations based on the combination of top and bottom materials.

Despite the differences, users can expect some similarities in their typing experiences thanks to the respective combinations of materials in both switches. The management of sound is a key element, and each switch balances its softer and stiffer elements between top and bottom housings. For instance, even though the Silent Red’s nylon absorbs sound leading to a fuller sound profile, the polycarbonate top can still produce clear high-end notes, allowing a user to experience a blend of sounds. Conversely, the Silent Sakura may offer a rounded auditory experience while maintaining the clarity from its polycarbonate bottom. Thus, regardless of their contrasting materials, both switches can deliver satisfying keystrokes offered by their thoughtfully crafted housing designs, enabling users to achieve similar results in terms of sound feedback and typing pleasure.

Weight

When comparing the TTC Silent Red linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces that cater to different preferences. The Silent Red features a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Silent Sakura has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, appealing to users who favor a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions. This means that the Silent Sakura is the lighter switch overall, whereas the Silent Red is the heavier option. The significant difference in bottom out forces also indicates that the Silent Red achieves a more resistant feel at the bottom of the key press compared to the more responsive and softer feel of the Silent Sakura. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for weight and tactile feedback.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Silent Red linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, there is a notable difference. The Silent Red features a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Silent Sakura offers a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Silent Red has a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to users seeking quicker response times, particularly gamers who benefit from such features. On the other hand, the longer 4 mm distance of the Silent Sakura could provide a more traditional and hearty typing experience, appealing to those who prefer deeper keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for responsiveness versus depth in keystrokes.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the TTC Silent Red switch is distinctly muted, providing a softer and quieter experience compared to traditional mechanical switches. This makes it an excellent choice for environments that require minimal noise, such as open offices or shared living spaces. The sound is subtle enough that it won't disrupt those nearby, resulting in a more focused and less distracting workspace. In contrast, while specific descriptors for the sound of the Silent Sakura - 43g are not provided, its design is aimed at delivering a whisper-quiet typing experience. This suggests that it may also maintain a low sound profile, making it suitable for similar environments where noise reduction is essential.

When it comes to feel, the Silent Red switches are celebrated for their buttery, mild, and polished keystrokes. The buttery characteristic results in a smooth and fluid typing experience, ensuring each keystroke feels seamless and effortless. With a mild nature, these switches cater to a broader audience, providing a gentle typing experience without being too assertive. The polished finish contributes to a refined sensation during key travel, allowing for reduced friction and an overall smooth typing experience. Unfortunately, the feel of the Silent Sakura - 43g switch is unknown, and therefore a direct comparison cannot be established. However, if its whisper-quiet profile is indicative of a sophisticated design, one might expect a similarly pleasant typing experience.

In conclusion, both the TTC Silent Red and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches prioritize a calmer typing experience suitable for quiet environments. The Silent Red shines in its muted sound, buttery smoothness, and overall polished feel, making it an appealing option for many typists. While the Silent Sakura lacks specific descriptors for sound and feel, its intention to provide a whisper-quiet environment suggests that it could deliver a comparable typing experience. Ultimately, both switches cater to those seeking serenity in their typing, ensuring a similar outcome in terms of usability and environment-friendly noise levels.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the TTC Silent Red linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch should ultimately rely on your typing style preferences and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you prefer a medium-heavy switch that offers a rich, tactile experience with a muted sound profile, the Silent Red is an excellent fit. It’s particularly well-suited for office settings or shared spaces where minimizing noise is essential, while still providing a smooth and cushioned feedback that many typists appreciate. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter touch and desire an ultra-quiet experience akin to gentle raindrops, the Silent Sakura - 43g would be your ideal choice. With its whisper-quiet operation and lighter actuation force, it's perfect for light typists who enjoy a serene typing environment. In essence, evaluate how you intend to use your keyboard—whether you lean towards a more robust typing experience with the Silent Red or a delicate touch with the Silent Sakura—to find the perfect switch that enhances your productivity and comfort.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Silent Red Linear

$5.28

$4.38 per 10

Learn more

HMX Silent Sakura - 43g Linear

$3.50 per 10

Learn more