HMX Silent Sakura - 43g vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two notable contenders are the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Gateron Smoothie Silver, both classified as linear switches yet offering distinct experiences. The Silent Sakura switches are renowned for their ultra-quiet operation, designed specifically for those who prefer a serene typing environment, with a feather-light 43g force on actuation that makes them ideal for light typists. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches are characterized by their short travel distance and thocky sound, delivering a tactile delight with their smooth feel and fast actuation, perfect for gamers and fast typists looking for a more responsive experience. While both switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel, they share the benefit of linear actuation for seamless keystrokes. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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 Silver, there are notable differences that influence the overall sound and typing experience. The Silent Sakura features a nylon top housing which, being a softer plastic, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is particularly advantageous for users who prefer a muted auditory experience, as nylon absorbs more sound waves than harder plastic materials. In contrast, the Smoothie Silver utilizes a POM (polyoxymethylene) top housing, which, while also delivering a deeper sound, creates a unique auditory experience that is more refined and pleasant. Though both switches aim for a muted sound profile, the materials distinctly shape the acoustic characteristics, with nylon leaning towards a roundness and POM offering its own unique tonal qualities.
Examining the bottom housings reveals a further contrast in materials that affects the overall output. The Silent Sakura's polycarbonate bottom housing offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to polycarbonate's rigid structure, which promotes clarity and resonance. This can be particularly appealing for those seeking an articulate auditory feedback during typing. In comparison, the Smoothie Silver’s POM bottom housing also emphasizes a muted sound, but it leans towards a more subdued auditory feedback that may ultimately feel softer and less pronounced compared to its counterpart. While both switches use different materials for their bottom housing, they share a common goal of delivering a satisfying sound experience that caters to various preferences.
In conclusion, while the Silent Sakura - 43g and Gateron Smoothie Silver utilize differing materials—nylon and polycarbonate for the former, and POM for both top and bottom housings in the latter—their respective sound profiles can still produce similar results in terms of an enjoyable typing experience. The combination of softer nylon and sharper polycarbonate creates a fuller auditory feedback in the Silent Sakura, while the POM materials in the Smoothie Silver aim for a pleasing depth. Ultimately, these variations allow users to select a switch that aligns with their sensory preferences, equating to a nuanced balance of sound and feel depending on individual needs and typing styles.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The Silent Sakura features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a softer touch for extended typing or gaming sessions without excessive finger fatigue. In contrast, the Smoothie Silver has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams, providing a more substantial push feel that some typists and gamers may appreciate for a more tactile experience. Additionally, while the bottom out force for the Silent Sakura is measured at 43 grams, the bottom out force for the Smoothie Silver is currently unknown. This means that while you can expect a consistent experience with the Silent Sakura when fully bottoming out, the Smoothie Silver’s performance in that regard remains unspecified. Overall, those looking for a lighter switch will favor the Silent Sakura, whereas users who prefer a heavier feel should consider the Gateron Smoothie Silver.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, it's evident that there is a noticeable difference between the two. The Silent Sakura has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Smoothie Silver measures 3.4 mm. This makes the Smoothie Silver the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times for a more agile typing experience. Conversely, the Silent Sakura's longer travel distance provides a more pronounced depth, which some users might prefer for a more deliberate feel when pressing down on keys. Overall, if responsiveness is your priority, the Gateron Smoothie Silver would likely suit you better, while the HMX Silent Sakura would be ideal for those who enjoy a more traditional and substantial keystroke.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Smoothie Silver 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 Silver 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 offers an exceptionally quiet typing experience, allowing for a soft and subtle acoustic profile that resembles gentle raindrops against a window. This makes it ideal for environments where noise reduction is a priority. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie Silver switch produces a thocky sound, which is more pronounced and adds a tactile auditory feedback to each keystroke. The sound produced by each switch hinges on factors like the choice of keyboard, keycaps, and even the typing surface, but if you prefer a serene setting, the Silent Sakura will excel, while the Smoothie Silver offers satisfying auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Silent Sakura - 43g is designed with an ultra-light 43g bottom-out force that caters to typists who favor a soft touch, making it very forgiving for lighter typing styles. This makes it comfortable for prolonged use without excessive finger fatigue. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver features a short travel distance and an all-POM construction, resulting in an exceptionally smooth keystroke, combined with a feather-light touch. Its design supports rapid, responsive typing, thus making it favorable for users who prioritize speed in their key presses.
Overall, both the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. If you’re looking for a quiet, serene experience, the Silent Sakura will suit you well, while the Smoothie Silver will appeal to those who enjoy a more tactile and audible feedback with their typing. Depending on your typing style and environmental needs, either switch could deliver an enjoyable experience, so consider trying both to find out which one resonates best with your personal preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switches should be guided by your personal typing style, environment, and preferences. If you are a light typist looking for a serene, quiet workspace where every keystroke is subtle and unobtrusive, the Silent Sakura - 43g is an excellent fit. Its ultra-light 43g actuation force allows for a gentle typing experience, making it ideal for long typing sessions in shared or noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, if you prioritize speed, responsiveness, and a satisfying tactile experience, the Smoothie Silver linear switch might be your go-to option. With its lightning-fast actuation and thocky sound profile, this switch is perfectly suited for gamers or typists who require quick reactions and smooth engagement. Ultimately, the best choice hinges on your specific needs—whether you value a quiet ambiance or demand a switch that can keep up with rapid inputs, you have a solid option in both of these exceptional switches.
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