TTC Silent Red vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 53g

Overview

When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often boils down to personal preference, and two standout options in the linear switch category are the TTC Silent Red and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g. The TTC Silent Red is celebrated for its buttery smooth and muted sound profile, making it an ideal option for those who value a seamless typing experience without the distraction of noise, especially in shared environments. The switch provides a consistent feel from the top to the bottom, complete with a padded bottom-out for added comfort during long typing sessions. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g offers a unique typing sensation, featuring a perfectly balanced 53g bottom-out force that provides a light yet satisfying keystroke, akin to the sound of gentle raindrops, making it appealing for typists who seek a subtle auditory and tactile experience. While both switches excel in quiet operation and smoothness, their distinct characteristics cater to different typing preferences. 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 - 53g Linear

$5.28

$4.38 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Silent Red and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g, it is clear that they feature a contrasting combination of materials for their top and bottom housings. The Silent Red uses a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's inherent stiffness, which allows for a more resonant sound when typing. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 53g utilizes a nylon top housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer material that absorbs sound more effectively. This fundamental difference signifies that while the TTC Silent Red may appeal to those who prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback with sharper tones, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g may cater to those who lean towards a warmer, more muted sound.

The bottom housings of these switches further showcase an interesting contrast. The Silent Red features a nylon bottom housing, which complements its polycarbonate top by enhancing the deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon absorbs sound, leading to a more subdued typing experience and allowing for a deeper bottom-out feel. Conversely, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g is characterized by a polycarbonate bottom housing, bringing a sharper sound quality to the tactile experience. This combination may provide a unique typing feedback where the defined auditory signals from the polycarbonate resonate against the muted, softer elements introduced by the nylon top housing. This variation means that users can expect different acoustics and tactile sensations when bottoming out and releasing the keys on each switch.

When considering how these differences might impact overall user experience, it’s significant to note that both configurations can produce satisfying results tailored to specific preferences. The Silent Red's mixed polycarbonate top and nylon bottom will yield a unique sound signature where the top housing delivers a bright, crisp note during key release while the bottom housing provides a more muted feel when pressed down. Similarly, the Silent Sakura - 53g's nylon top and polycarbonate bottom housing will create a more rounded but still articulated auditory profile. The interplay of materials ensures that even with their differences, users who select these switches will enjoy distinct but equally enjoyable typing experiences, accommodating a diverse range of auditory preferences in mechanical keyboards.

Weight

When comparing the TTC Silent Red linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch, both switches share the same actuation force of 45 grams, meaning they require an equal amount of force to trigger a keystroke. However, they differ in their bottom out forces; the TTC Silent Red has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it significantly heavier in feel, while the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g has a bottom out force of just 53 grams, classifying it as medium-light. This difference suggests that while both switches are equally easy to press initially, the TTC Silent Red offers a more substantial and forceful feedback when pressed all the way down, catering to those who enjoy a heavier typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g, being lighter overall, would be more suitable for users seeking a gentler touch, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Silent Red linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch, there is a notable difference. The TTC Silent Red has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g has a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This shows that the Silent Red offers a shorter travel distance, which can facilitate quicker response times, making it ideal for gamers seeking that swift actuation. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura’s 4 mm travel distance provides a more traditional feel, catering to users who prefer a deeper keypress for a more substantial tactile experience. Therefore, those favoring faster actuation may opt for the TTC Silent Red, while those who appreciate a more pronounced depth in their keystrokes might lean towards the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the TTC Silent Red linear switch excels with its muted acoustics. This design minimizes the typical noises associated with mechanical keyboards, making it an ideal choice for office environments or shared spaces where quietude is preferred. The gentle sound profile allows for uninterrupted typing without distracting others nearby. While the specific sound profile of the Silent Sakura switches is not detailed, it’s noted that they offer a similarly whisper-quiet experience, likened to the soft pitter-patter of rain. Both switches cater to users seeking a quieter typing experience, suggesting that the sound produced by both switches is generally discreet, although the precise qualitative differences remain unclear.

In terms of feel, the TTC Silent Red is characterized by its buttery smoothness, providing a seamless and fluid typing experience from start to finish. Its mild nature ensures that it offers a forgiving experience suitable for various typing styles, appealing to users who prefer a balanced and approachable tactile feedback. Additionally, the polished finish of the Silent Red enhances this smoothness, contributing to a refined keystroke experience. Meanwhile, the feel of the Silent Sakura switches is less defined; however, they feature a balanced 53g actuation force, which points toward a tactile experience that is light yet engaging. Typers will likely find a satisfying keystroke in this switch, echoing the Silent Red's smoother experience, though exact comparisons remain unknown.

In conclusion, both the TTC Silent Red and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switches are geared towards users who appreciate quiet and comfortable typing experiences. The Silent Red’s muted sound and polished feel make it an appealing choice for those seeking a smooth, unobtrusive keyboard experience. Meanwhile, the Silent Sakura offers its own soft sound qualities paired with a well-balanced actuation force, allowing for satisfying keystrokes. While the Silent Red provides specific descriptors for its feel that highlight its smoothness, the Silent Sakura suggests a lighter touch that typists may also appreciate. Ultimately, you'll likely find satisfying results with either option, especially if noise and comfort are prioritizing factors in your mechanical keyboard setup.

Conclusion

To wrap up, your choice between the TTC Silent Red linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch largely depends on your typing preferences and the context in which you'll be using them. If you prioritize a smooth, polished feel and are looking for a switch that provides a muted and buttery typing experience with a heavier actuation force of 63.5 grams, the Silent Red will serve you well, especially in environments where noise reduction is essential, such as an office or shared space. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter keystroke with a specifically balanced feel, the Silent Sakura at 53 grams could offer you the satisfying tactile feedback you seek while ensuring a whisper-quiet experience. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy a lighter touch without sacrificing comfort. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your typing style, whether you lean towards heavier, more deliberate strokes or lighter, more agile ones, and the needs of your daily environment.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Silent Red Linear

$5.28

$4.38 per 10

Learn more

HMX Silent Sakura - 53g Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more