HMX Silent Sakura - 43g vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preference and typing style, as exemplified by the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the TTC Speed Silver. The Silent Sakura switches are designed for those who appreciate a tranquil typing experience, offering an ultra-light 43g bottom out force that allows for gentle keystrokes reminiscent of soft raindrops. This makes them an excellent choice for users who prefer a quiet environment, such as in shared workspaces or during late-night gaming sessions. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver caters to fast typists who prioritize quick and precise keystrokes. With a light-medium level of resistance and a reduced travel distance, these switches are engineered for rapid actuation, which can be a significant advantage in competitive gaming or typing tasks that require efficiency. Both switches deliver a unique experience, highlighting the distinct preferences of different users; 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The comparison of the housing materials between the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the TTC Speed Silver highlights distinct differences in their sound profiles due to the contrasting materials used in their constructions. The Silent Sakura features a nylon top housing, which lends itself to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This quality stems from nylon's softer plastic nature, which trails off high frequencies, absorbing more sound and creating a rounded auditory experience. In contrast, the Speed Silver utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. The rigidity of polycarbonate contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound, allowing the nuances of keystrokes to shine, particularly appealing for enthusiasts seeking precise auditory feedback.
On the other hand, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their bottom housing. As a result, both switches deliver similar acoustic characteristics when the key is fully depressed. The polycarbonate bottom of the Silent Sakura generates a higher-pitched, crisp sound, facilitating a more resonant bottom-out experience. Meanwhile, the TTC Speed Silver's nylon bottom housing introduces a unique dynamic by contributing to a deeper sound profile. Consequently, the different materials for the individual housings complement each other, resulting in varied auditory experiences during typing.
When considering the overall impact of these material choices, it’s important to note how the combination of each housing directly influences the tactile feedback felt during use. As the Silent Sakura has a nylon top and polycarbonate bottom, it balances out the typing experience, where the full-bodied sound of the bottom housing counters the sharper tones from the top. Conversely, the Speed Silver’s nylon bottom merges with its polycarbonate top, creating a hybrid response that leans slightly towards clarity while still retaining some warmth from the nylon. This interplay means both switches can achieve satisfying results in their respective domains, offering users a choice between a softer sound profile or a crisper auditory experience without sacrificing fundamental tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, there are notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces. The Silent Sakura switch features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it ideal for extended typing sessions, promoting comfort and less fatigue. In contrast, the TTC Speed Silver has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, catering to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. While the Silent Sakura is the lighter option overall, the Speed Silver provides a firmer tactile experience. Consequently, users seeking a lighter, more comfortable switch might gravitate towards the Silent Sakura, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance and feedback might find the TTC Speed Silver more appealing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, we see a notable difference. The Silent Sakura has a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the traditional preference for deeper key presses, offering a more substantial feel when typing. In contrast, the Speed Silver features a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, which caters to gamers seeking quicker response times and a snappier feel. Those who favor a more responsive experience might gravitate towards the TTC Speed Silver due to its reduced travel distance, while users who appreciate a more cushioned depth would likely prefer the Silent Sakura. Thus, the Silent Sakura has the longer travel distance at 4 mm, while the Speed Silver is the shorter option at 3.4 mm.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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
The HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switch delivers a notably quiet sound profile, often compared to the gentle patter of raindrops, which makes it particularly suitable for environments where noise reduction is essential. This switch has been engineered to minimize audible feedback, creating a serene typing experience that appeals to those who value a peaceful workspace. In contrast, the TTC Speed Silver features a more neutral sound profile that is neither overly loud nor exceptionally silent, striking a balance that suits a variety of settings, from home to office. This moderate sound level ensures that while it can be heard when typing, it does not distract or disturb those around you, making it versatile for both casual and professional use.
When it comes to the feel of these switches, the Silent Sakura - 43g offers an ultra-light feel designed for users who prefer a less forceful typing experience. This gentle resistance allows for effortless keystrokes, making it ideal for light typists or anyone seeking a more delicate touch. In comparison, the TTC Speed Silver provides a mild yet polished experience, combining a smooth key travel with a refined finish that enhances the overall typing motion. The Speed Silver's design also accommodates a quicker key actuation due to its shorter travel distance, which benefits users who prioritize speed and precision in their typing, making it a suitable choice for gamers and those who type rapidly.
Overall, both the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and TTC Speed Silver switches cater to specific typing preferences, albeit in different ways. While the Silent Sakura excels in providing a quiet, gentle keystroke experience, the Speed Silver focuses on delivering speed and a balanced sound profile. Users seeking a serene typing atmosphere may gravitate towards the Silent Sakura, while those valuing rapid response times might prefer the Speed Silver. Ultimately, both switches offer unique advantages, and selecting between them would depend on your personal typing style and environment preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing between the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the TTC Speed Silver linear switches ultimately depends on your individual preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a quiet and serene typing experience, whether for late-night work or for a distraction-free environment in shared spaces, the Silent Sakura's ultra-light 43g actuation force makes it an excellent choice, especially for light typists who enjoy a more gentle touch in their keystrokes. On the other hand, if speed and precision are your priorities, particularly for gaming or fast-paced typing, the TTC Speed Silver, with its medium-light 55g actuation force, offers a quicker response thanks to its reduced travel distance. Its mild resistance allows for a comfortable typing feel that suits a wide range of users, while the polished finish provides a smooth experience that is pleasing to both the touch and ear. Ultimately, consider your typical usage scenarios, whether you need silence or speed, to help guide your decision between these two exceptional switches.
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