HMX Silent Sakura - 43g vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, users often find themselves torn between unique offerings like the HMX Silent Sakura and the Dareu Sky V3. The Silent Sakura, with its ultra-light 43g bottom-out force, promises an almost ethereal typing experience characterized by whisper-quiet feedback, making it an excellent choice for those who value a serene workspace free from distracting noise. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 stands out with its neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, appealing to a broader audience of typists who seek the perfect blend of comfort and precision, whether for casual typing or professional use. While both switches belong to the linear category, they cater to distinctly different preferences and environments. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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 spring
Housing materials
The HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Dareu Sky V3 utilize different materials for their top and bottom switch housings, resulting in distinct auditory and tactile experiences. The Silent Sakura employs a nylon top housing, known for its softer characteristics that help absorb sound and produce a deeper, rounder sound profile. This design choice results in a fuller auditory experience when typing, as the nylon material dampens vibrations, making each keystroke sound less piercing and more muted. Conversely, the Sky V3 features a polycarbonate top housing, which tends to generate a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness and resonance. This contrast between the two materials suggests that while both switches can achieve satisfactory sound outcomes, their auditory signatures will be distinctively different, with the Silent Sakura providing a more subdued experience and the Sky V3 offering a brighter tone.
Examining the bottom housings, the Silent Sakura incorporates a polycarbonate material, echoing the same principles as the top housing of the Sky V3. The polycarbonate bottom promotes clarity and resonance, lending a sharper sound to the bottom-out experience of the switch. In contrast, the Sky V3 deploys a nylon bottom housing, leading to a deeper sound profile that aligns with the characteristics of its top housing counterpart. This arrangement emphasizes the importance of material interaction in hybrid switches. Ultimately, users may appreciate the Silent Sakura's combination of a muted top sound with a more resonant bottom impact, while the Sky V3 offers a cohesive experience that balances brightness from the top with a fuller sound when bottoming out.
Overall, despite the differences in materials between the Silent Sakura - 43g and the Sky V3, both switches can achieve commendable auditory results thanks to their unique combinations of nylon and polycarbonate. If one were to use each switch without prior knowledge of their construction, they would likely experience a satisfying typing performance; however, discerning enthusiasts might notice the nuanced differences arising from the contrasting housing materials. For those who prioritize RGB lighting, the translucent nature of the polycarbonate in both switches could potentially equalize the experience regarding visual display, ensuring that despite their differing sound profiles, both switches can achieve appealing aesthetics as well.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, it is clear that the Silent Sakura is lighter and may offer a more comfortable typing experience for those who prefer less resistance. The Silent Sakura features an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it an excellent choice for extended typing sessions or gaming as it requires less effort to activate. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V3 has a slightly higher actuation force of 40 grams; however, its bottom out force is unknown, which complicates direct comparison in that area. Without specific information about the bottom out force of the Sky V3, we cannot fully assess how it feels when pressed to its maximum depth. Overall, those who value a softer key feel should lean towards the Silent Sakura, while those who may prefer a firmer typing experience might find the Sky V3 appealing, though without complete specifications, the comparison is limited.
Travel distance
Both the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch feature an identical travel distance of 4 mm, indicating that you will experience the same physical travel when pressing down on either switch. This similarity in travel distance ensures that both switches will provide a comparable tactile response and feel during use, making them an excellent choice for users who prefer a consistent keystroke experience. Whether you choose the Silent Sakura or the Sky V3, you can expect an equal distance to be traversed as you engage with either switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Sky V3 has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky V3 for $4.76.
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 provides an exceptionally quiet typing experience, akin to delicate raindrops tapping against a window. This subtlety makes it a fantastic choice for those who demand tranquility while typing, especially in shared spaces or during late-night brainstorming sessions. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V3 switch is noted for its neutral sound profile. While it’s not completely silent, it produces a subdued sound that is less intrusive than many standard mechanical switches. This balance makes the Sky V3 suitable for a variety of environments, whether at home or in a professional setting, appealing to both beginners and seasoned typists.
Regarding the feel of these switches, the Silent Sakura - 43g offers an ultra-light actuation force that lends itself well to light typists seeking a gentle touch with minimal effort. This enables a soft and almost effortless typing experience. In comparison, the Dareu Sky V3 switch has a mild feel, providing a comfortable and approachable typing sensation that avoids the extremes of tactile or heavy switches. This makes it suitable for users looking for a balanced and enjoyable experience without any harshness, allowing for extended typing sessions without fatigue.
In summary, both the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switches offer unique yet complementary qualities. The Silent Sakura excels in providing a near-silent operation and an ultra-light touch, making it ideal for those who prioritize a serene sound profile. On the other hand, the Sky V3 balances sound and feel exceptionally well with its neutral sound signature and mild actuation, catering to a broad audience. While both switches aim to enhance the typing experience, your choice will ultimately depend on whether you value a quieter atmosphere or a universally comfortable typing sensation.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, your choice should hinge on your personal typing preferences and environment. If you prioritize a whisper-quiet experience with a notably light actuation force, the Silent Sakura is an excellent choice, particularly if you work in a shared space or prefer a serene typing atmosphere. Its 43g bottom-out force suits light typists who value gentleness and subtlety in their keystrokes, making it ideal for late-night work sessions or environments where noise is a concern. On the other hand, if you seek a more balanced switch that caters to a variety of typing styles, the Dareu Sky V3 might be your best bet. Its neutral sound signature and moderate feel are versatile enough to accommodate both casual use at home and professional settings, offering comfort without compromising precision. In essence, choose the Silent Sakura for an ultra-quiet, light touch, and the Sky V3 for a well-rounded experience that satisfies diverse typing needs.
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