HMX Silent Sakura - 43g vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, selecting the right option is crucial to enhancing your typing experience. The HMX Silent Sakura - 43g stands out with its ultra-light 43g actuation force, making it an excellent choice for light typists seeking a whisper-quiet atmosphere, reminiscent of gentle raindrops softly pattering against a window. Its linear design ensures a smooth keystroke without any tactile resistance, perfect for those who prioritize fluidity and minimal sound. In contrast, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) caters to those who appreciate tactile feedback in a quieter typing environment. With a medium bump and padded bottom-out feel, this switch provides a satisfied resistance while still maintaining a subdued audio profile, ideal for users who desire a more pronounced key response without the disruptive noise. Each switch offers unique benefits—whether you’re drawn to the serene silence of the Silent Sakura or the balanced tactility of the Silent T1—yet the choice ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp), one of the striking aspects is the contrasting materials used for their top housings—nylon for the Silent Sakura and polycarbonate for the Silent T1. The nylon top housing of the Silent Sakura is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its softer nature allows for better sound absorption, which leads to a rounder and duller auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the Silent T1's polycarbonate top housing promotes a sharper and more resonant sound profile. The stiffer plastic used in the Durock switch enhances clarity and resonance, resulting in a higher-pitched sound. This fundamental distinction in materials shapes the acoustic characteristics of the switches, affecting how users perceive their typing experience.
Turning to the bottom housings, the Silent Sakura employs polycarbonate, while the Silent T1 uses nylon. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Silent Sakura maintains the trend of offering a crisp sound profile due to its stiffness, which contributes to a clear bottom-out feel. Conversely, the nylon bottom housing of the Silent T1 is designed to deliver a fuller sound experience, absorbing more sound due to its softer composition. This variation in materials influences how each switch performs aesthetically and audibly during typing. The combined effects of the nylon and polycarbonate bottom housings can lead to a notable difference in noise and feel when keys are pressed down, which is particularly important for users seeking specific tactile feedback and acoustic profiles.
Despite the differences in top and bottom housing materials for these switches, both can achieve their own unique sound signatures and user experiences. While the Silent Sakura emphasizes a muted and acoustically absorbed experience, the Silent T1 offers a more pronounced and crisp sound profile. Consequently, if users desire similar auditory results, they can focus on the housing materials that predominantly affect their preferred sound characteristics. For example, someone who enjoys a crisper sound might prefer the Durock Silent T1 despite the nylon bottom, while those leaning towards a fuller sound may favor the Silent Sakura for its deeper tonal qualities. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will boil down to personal preference in typing experience and sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, their actuation and bottom out forces reveal significant differences in user experience. The Silent Sakura has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it a lightweight option ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) boasts a bottom out force of 67 grams; however, its actuation force remains unspecified. This suggests a potentially heavier overall feel, which may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push. Consequently, while the Silent Sakura is the lighter switch overall, the Silent T1 is positioned as a heavier alternative, catering to users who enjoy a firmer keystroke. Thus, choosing between them ultimately depends on personal preference regarding typing experience—light versus substantial.
Travel distance
The HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch both feature a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. Since both switches travel the same distance from the top to the bottom when pressed, users can expect a similar feel in terms of key press depth and responsiveness. This similarity means that those looking for consistency in travel distance can confidently choose either switch without experiencing a significant difference in performance based on travel distance alone.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent T1 (Shrimp) for $5.57.
The HMX Silent Sakura - 43g 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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switch is celebrated for its serene and whisper-quiet typing experience, reminiscent of soft raindrops, making it a great option for users seeking minimal noise. In contrast, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) offers a muted sound profile, designed specifically to produce less auditory feedback than typical mechanical switches. While the Silent Sakura aims for an almost ethereal silence, the Silent T1 achieves a more controlled reduction in noise, ideal for environments where discretion is paramount. Both switches excel in terms of quiet operation, making them suitable for noise-sensitive surroundings, yet they deliver different sound profiles that a user might prefer based on personal taste.
In terms of feel, the Silent Sakura - 43g is tailored for light typists, providing a smooth linear action that lacks tactile feedback but allows for effortless key presses. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) presents a more complex tactile experience with a medium bump, giving the user a satisfying sensation during typing. The T1's stepped design allows for a clear distinction in stages of key travel, while its polished nature ensures a refined, smooth experience. This tactile quality is complemented by the padded bottom-out feel that enhances comfort while typing. As such, while the Silent Sakura delivers a direct and uninterrupted key travel, the Silent T1 enriches the typing experience with its tactile nuances.
In summary, both the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches prioritize a quiet operation, making either a suitable choice for users who value stealth in their typing experience. However, they cater to different typing preferences; the Silent Sakura is a linear switch designed for those who prefer smooth and effortless keystrokes, while the Silent T1 offers a tactile experience with a nuanced bump and an overall polished feel. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you prioritize a linear, quiet experience or a tactile sensation with subdued noise.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch ultimately depends on your typing style and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you prefer a light touch and seek a whisper-quiet experience that allows for serene typing, the Silent Sakura - 43g is the appropriate choice. Its gentle actuation force and linear feel are ideal for those who favor a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke, making it perfect for extended typing sessions without the distraction of noise. On the other hand, if you appreciate tactile feedback and want an audible yet muted experience suitable for noise-sensitive settings, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) would be your go-to switch. Its medium-heavy force, combined with a pleasant tactile bump and subdued auditory response, offers a balance between feel and sound that can enhance your typing enjoyment without disturbing those around you. Ultimately, your decision should reflect how you balance the need for silence versus tactile engagement in your keyboard experience.
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