HMX Silent Sakura - 43g vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 53g
An in-depth look at the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Silent Sakura series offers two compelling options: the Silent Sakura - 43g and the Silent Sakura - 53g, both linear switches designed for a blissfully quiet typing experience. The 43g variant is ideal for light typists who appreciate a feather-light keystroke, making it perfect for long hours of work in serene environments without disturbing those around them. In contrast, the 53g version offers a balanced bottom-out force that provides a satisfying yet gentle feedback, appealing to users who desire a bit more resistance while still enjoying the soothing sound of silent keystrokes. Both switches capture the essence of a tranquil typing atmosphere, yet cater to different preferences in typing feel and force. 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
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
The HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g share similar housing materials, which significantly contributes to their overall sound profile and typing experience. Both switches feature a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound due to nylon's softer nature compared to harder plastics. This quality in both models ensures that users will experience a rounder, more muted auditory feedback when pressing keys, making them ideal for users who prefer a quieter typing experience. In this regard, both switches will deliver consistently warm and subdued sound characteristics that cater to a similar preference in tactile feedback.
Contrasting the two models, however, the bottom housings differ in terms of weight, with both switches employing a polycarbonate composition. The polycarbonate bottom housing, which is stiffer than nylon, provides a sharper and more resonant sound profile. In both switches, this material imparts a clearer auditory response, especially noticeable during the bottom-out phase of key presses. Although the Silent Sakura - 43g and Silent Sakura - 53g share the same performance characteristics from the polycarbonate material, the overall feel and sound might subtly vary due to the weight differences resulting from their respective force ratings. The distinct weight of the actuation forces in each switch offers users different tactile experiences, even as the fundamental auditory qualities remain consistent.
While the top housing materials and bottom housing's polycarbonate makeup contributes to certain auditory similarities, the weight differential of the Silent Sakura - 43g and 53g creates nuances in the typing experience. Users might note that the 53g version tends to provide a firmer keypress, refining the feedback and sound when bottoming out, as influenced by the pressure applied. Conversely, the 43g version may offer a lighter touch, giving rise to a distinct yet similarly resonant auditory output. Ultimately, while both switches maintain a comparable sound profile owing to their shared nylon and polycarbonate housing materials, the differing actuation forces underscore the individualized experience of each model, appealing to diverse preferences in keyboard feel and acoustic performance.
Weight
The HMX Silent Sakura switches present an interesting comparison in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Silent Sakura - 43g switch features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it ideal for extended typing sessions and providing a softer feedback for those who favor a lighter touch. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 53g has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, offering a more substantial typing feel that appeals to users who prefer a stronger push when typing. While both switches provide a linear feel without tactile bumps, the Silent Sakura - 43g is clearly the lighter option, whereas the Silent Sakura - 53g is the heavier variant. Consequently, users looking for a more effortless typing experience may gravitate towards the 43g switch, while those desiring a firmer response should consider the 53g switch.
Travel distance
Both the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on either switch, users will experience an identical distance between the top and bottom positions. As a result, those looking for a consistent keystroke experience will find that both switches yield similar results in terms of travel distance, allowing them to perform equally throughout typing or gaming sessions. Hence, there's no distinction in travel distance between the two switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
In this case, both switches are $3.50. As such, price can't serve as a tiebreaker when choosing between the Silent Sakura - 43g and Silent Sakura - 53g.
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, both the Silent Sakura - 43g and Silent Sakura - 53g switches are engineered for a whisper-quiet typing experience, akin to the gentle sound of raindrops tapping against a window. This shared characteristic means that regardless of which switch you choose, you can expect minimal noise during typing sessions. However, it's important to keep in mind that the sound produced can also be influenced by the keyboard's construction, including the choice of board and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Silent Sakura - 43g switch offers an ultra-light bottom-out force of 43g, making it ideal for typists who prefer a light touch, resulting in quick and effortless keystrokes. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura - 53g switch, with its slightly heavier 53g actuation force, strikes a balance between a light and satisfying keystroke, appealing to those who enjoy a little more resistance while still maintaining a smooth linear action. The varied actuation forces cater to different typing preferences, creating a distinct aspect of the typing experience between the two switches.
In conclusion, both Silent Sakura switches provide a quiet operation, perfect for those wanting to minimize noise, while their differences in feel, defined by their bottom-out forces, allow users to choose according to their typing style. Whether you prefer the feather-light touch of the 43g switch or the slightly firmer 53g option, you're likely to enjoy a serene typing environment with either choice.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switches, consider your typing style and preferences carefully. The 43g variant is ideal for you if you are a light typist who values a gentle touch and prefers a softer keystroke. Its whisper-quiet operation makes it perfect for shared spaces or late-night work, allowing you to type without disturbing those around you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a bit more resistance while maintaining a quiet experience, the 53g switch could be your best option. This medium-light weight offers a satisfying balance, allowing for more deliberate key presses that can improve your typing accuracy and provide a slightly more tactile feel without being overly loud. Ultimately, your decision should revolve around how much force you want to exert with each keystroke and your sensitivity to sound in your typing environment.
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