HMX Silent Sakura - 43g vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Gateron Smoothie both present enticing options that cater to different typing preferences. The Silent Sakura switch is engineered for a whisper-quiet experience, evoking the soft sound of raindrops with an ultra-light 43g actuation force, making it an excellent choice for light typists and those who value a serene workspace. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie stands out for its all-POM construction, delivering a thocky sound signature that combines remarkable smoothness with a satisfying feedback, appealing to users who appreciate a more pronounced auditory and tactile experience. While the Silent Sakura may be ideal for maintaining a tranquil environment, the Gateron Smoothie offers a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality, providing a delightful typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your unique needs.
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
3.60 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Gateron Smoothie switches, it is evident that there are distinct differences between the two. The Silent Sakura utilizes a nylon top housing, renowned for its ability to absorb sound and create a deeper, fuller audio profile. This softer plastic results in a more muted sound when typing, offering a pleasant tactile experience. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie employs a POM (polyoxymethylene) top housing, which also produces a unique sound profile that is similarly deeper and muted, yet it may resonate differently due to its intrinsic characteristics. While both switches achieve a muted typing sound, the materials used contribute variances in the finer acoustic qualities, with nylon favoring a warmer tone and POM delivering a more distinct clarity.
The bottom housings of the two switches present another layer of comparison. The Silent Sakura features a polycarbonate bottom housing, known for its sturdiness and the ability to generate a sharper, crisper sound profile. This stiffer plastic adds resonance and clarity, enhancing the overall typing experience, especially noticeable during bottom-out keystrokes. The Gateron Smoothie, with its POM bottom housing, offers a sound profile that aligns closely with the top housing but leans towards a more muted characteristic overall. While both materials may create a pleasing auditory experience, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Silent Sakura injects a clearer definition into each keystroke, whereas the POM of the Smoothie inherently dampens sound, making the two switches feel distinctly different during typing sessions.
Ultimately, although the housing materials of the Silent Sakura and the Gateron Smoothie are different in composition and sound characteristics, they both aim to provide a satisfying typing experience through their unique acoustic profiles. Users can expect that while the Silent Sakura may offer a broader spectrum of sound with its combination of nylon and polycarbonate, the Gateron Smoothie utilizes a uniform POM construction to achieve a more consistent, muted sound. In contexts where certain auditory attributes are desired, the nylon and polycarbonate blend will yield different sensations than the POM-based design. However, users can still enjoy a muted typing experience across both switches, making them suitable for environments where subdued sound levels are preferred.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, we see some differences in their actuation forces. The Silent Sakura features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, making it easier to press and ideal for long typing sessions or extended gaming periods. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie has a slightly heavier actuation force of 40 grams, which may provide a more substantial feel for those who prefer a firmer push during typing. Both switches have a bottom out force, with the Silent Sakura at 43 grams, providing a distinct feedback when fully pressed. However, the bottom out force for the Smoothie is unknown, leaving a gap in direct comparison for that metric. Overall, the Silent Sakura is the lighter option, while the Smoothie is heavier, appealing to different preferences in typing dynamics. If the bottom out force of the Smoothie were known and similar to the Silent Sakura, it would offer comparable typing experiences despite the differences in actuation force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, there is a notable difference between the two. The Silent Sakura features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Smoothie has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that if you choose the Silent Sakura, you'll experience a more traditional key feel with a deeper press, which some users may find more satisfying. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie, with its shorter travel distance, may be more appealing to gamers and those who favor rapid response times. Thus, if you're looking for responsiveness and a quicker actuation, the Smoothie would be the better choice; conversely, if you prefer a more robust keystroke, the Silent Sakura could be the way to go.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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
In terms of sound, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switch is designed for a whisper-quiet operation, creating an environment that is tranquil and unobtrusive. The sound profile is reminiscent of gentle rain, making it ideal for users who prioritize a subdued auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie presents a distinct thocky sound signature. When pressed, it produces a deep, rich sound characterized by a thud or soft knock that many typists find satisfying. This low-pitched and bass-heavy sound, while not excessively loud, offers a more pronounced auditory feedback that contrasts with the Silent Sakura's star-feature of fostering silence during use.
Regarding feel, the Silent Sakura - 43g offers a light and subtle typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a feather-light touch and minimal resistance. While the specific tactile feedback is less emphasized in the provided details, its ultra-light bottom-out force likely contributes to an easy and efficient typing dynamic. The Gateron Smoothie, conversely, excels in providing a buttery, creamy, and silky feel. This switch ensures a seamless and fluid keystroke that makes typing less of a chore and more of a delightful experience, with minimal resistance as each key glides effortlessly under your fingers. This smoothness could cater to typists who value a tactile response but prefer a softer touch.
In conclusion, while both the Silent Sakura - 43g and Gateron Smoothie linear switches offer unique attributes, they cater to different preferences in sound and feel. If you seek a quiet and gentle typing experience, the Silent Sakura is your go-to choice. In contrast, if you prefer a more auditory and tactile feedback, the Smoothie could be your ideal switch. Ultimately, both switches promise a different yet satisfying typing experience, and your choice will depend on whether you prioritize silence or an engaging sound and feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Gateron Smoothie linear switches ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prioritize a lightweight, whisper-quiet typing experience, the Silent Sakura - 43g is an excellent option, particularly if you are a light typist or if you often work in quieter environments where sound could be disruptive. Its ultra-light 43g bottom out force allows for a serene typing experience with minimal effort, making it ideal for those who favor subtlety in both sound and feel. On the other hand, if you seek a more responsive switch with a distinctive thocky sound signature, the Gateron Smoothie could be better suited to you. With its buttery, creamy, and silky feel, this switch offers a satisfying typing experience that is engaging and enjoyable, especially for typists who appreciate tactile feedback and a richer acoustic profile. Therefore, you should weigh your priorities—whether you lean more towards silence and lightness or smoothness and sound—to find the switch that best complements your keyboard experience.
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