HMX Silent Sakura - 43g vs. Everglide Sticky Rice (V2)
An in-depth look at the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) present two compelling yet distinct options for different typing preferences. The Silent Sakura switches are designed for those who prioritize stealth and serenity in their typing experience, offering an incredibly light bottom-out force of just 43g that allows for whisper-quiet keystrokes reminiscent of gentle raindrops. This makes them an excellent choice for light typists or those who work in shared or quiet environments. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) provides a more robust and tactile experience while maintaining a neutral sound profile. Known for its well-balanced performance and satisfying "thock," this switch appeals to enthusiasts who enjoy a smoother keystroke combined with a refined tactile sensation, thanks to its dustproof stem that minimizes wobble. Both switches cater to different needs—whether you seek tranquility or a tactile punch—but they each have their unique qualities. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) employ different top and bottom housing materials, leading to distinct auditory profiles that enhance the user experience in contrasting ways. The Silent Sakura features a nylon top housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon's softer plastic characteristics, which absorb sound more effectively compared to harder materials. As such, the keys produce a duller and rounder sound when pressed and released. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which enhances auditory clarity by providing a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to this crispness, making it an ideal choice for those looking to maintain precise auditory feedback during typing.
Conversely, both switches feature a polycarbonate bottom housing on the Silent Sakura and a nylon bottom housing on the Sticky Rice (V2). The choice of housing impacts how the switches sound overall, especially during the bottom-out phase. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Silent Sakura results in a more clear and resonant sound profile, complementing the muted tones of its nylon top. Conversely, the nylon bottom housing of the Sticky Rice (V2) elicits a deeper and rounder bottom-out sound, which can enrich the overall typing experience by adding warmth and softness to the attack and release. These differences create a dynamic interaction between the materials that affects the perception of sound and feel in each switch.
Despite these contrasts, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) can still yield a harmonious typing experience. By leveraging their respective materials, both switches provide diverse sound profiles that can cater to different preferences. Users looking for a deeper, more resonant typing experience may find enjoyment in the Silent Sakura, while those who favor a sharper and crisper feedback may gravitate toward the Sticky Rice. Ultimately, the split in housing materials allows for a unique interplay that can satisfy a broader spectrum of keystroke preferences while offering users the advantage of tailoring their auditory experience based on the combination of top and bottom housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, we observe some differences in feel and weight. The Silent Sakura has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it slightly lighter compared to the Sticky Rice (V2), which features an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This difference means that the Silent Sakura requires less force to activate, making it a more suitable choice for users who prefer a lighter touch, especially during extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) offers a heavier push feel, which may appeal to those who appreciate a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, while both switches are categorized as light, the Silent Sakura is the lighter option, while the Sticky Rice (V2) provides a firmer response.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, it is clear that the Silent Sakura has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sticky Rice (V2) measures at 3.5 mm. This difference emphasizes a preference for responsiveness versus depth in key presses. The shorter travel distance of the Sticky Rice can offer quicker activation times, making it more appealing to gamers who seek immediate feedback. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura, with its more traditional 4 mm distance, may appeal to users who appreciate a more pronounced keypress with a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches revolves around personal preference for either quicker response or a more substantial typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Silent Sakura - 43g has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Sakura - 43g for $2.99.
The Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sticky Rice (V2) for $6.79.
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 linear switch is characterized by its whisper-quiet operation, creating a typing experience that is akin to gentle raindrops, making it ideal for environments where noise must be minimized. This serene auditory profile is accomplished through its design, ensuring that keystrokes don’t evoke the clicky sounds typical of other switches. On the other hand, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch has a more neutral sound signature that provides the deeper "thock" sound many enthusiasts desire. This subtle yet distinct sound, coupled with its smooth keystroke, creates an auditory landscape that is slightly more pronounced than that of the Silent Sakura, appealing to users who enjoy the subtle resonance of their keystrokes.
Focusing on the feel of the switches, the Silent Sakura - 43g impresses with its ultra-light 43g bottom-out force, making it particularly comfortable for light typists who prefer a soft, effortless keystroke. This gentle actuation facilitates long typing sessions without fatigue, capturing the essence of easy, fluid typing. Conversely, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) excels in delivering a super smooth keystroke due to its dustproof stem which lessens wobble and enhances performance. This results in a tactile sensation that remains refined, satisfying those who appreciate a more controlled typing experience while still enjoying some resistance.
Overall, while the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches serve different purposes, they both cater to unique typing preferences that can appeal to various users. The Silent Sakura offers a quiet, lightweight experience ideal for serene environments, whereas the Sticky Rice captures the auditory and tactile qualities that enthusiasts seek. Ultimately, selecting between these two will depend on whether you prioritize sound profile or tactile feedback during your typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when it comes to choosing between the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, your decision should align with your typing environment and personal preferences. If you prioritize a serene and quiet typing experience, perhaps due to a shared workspace or a need for minimal noise distractions, the Silent Sakura is the ideal option. Its ultra-light 43g bottom out force is particularly suited for lighter typists who enjoy a smooth, subtle keystroke reminiscent of soft raindrops. On the other hand, if you lean towards a more tactile feel and appreciate a satisfying sound profile, the Sticky Rice (V2) may be more to your liking. With a slightly heavier bottom out force of 50g, this switch provides a well-balanced tactile experience that many enthusiasts crave, offering that characteristic "thock" sound while maintaining a refined keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on whether you seek a quiet, gentle touch or a pronounced tactile feedback with sound—the right switch will enhance your typing experience based on your unique preferences and the contexts in which you use your keyboard.
Mentioned in this article
