HMX Silent Sakura - 43g vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often boils down to personal preference in sound and feel, and two intriguing options in the linear category are the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2). The Silent Sakura switch is celebrated for its whisper-quiet performance, evoking the calming sound of raindrops, making it an ideal choice for those who work in shared spaces or prefer a more subdued typing experience. With a feather-light 43g actuation force, it caters well to light typists seeking ease of use. In contrast, the Strawberry Wine (V2) offers a vibrant, clacky feel, enhanced by its resonant tones and silky smooth keystrokes, thanks to an impressive factory lube job. This switch is perfect for users who enjoy tactile feedback and a more engaging typing experience. Both switches serve different typing needs and environments, making them worthy of consideration. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
52g
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
Y3
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Ly
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
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
The HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) utilize different materials for their top and bottom switch housings, leading to varied sound experiences when typing. The Silent Sakura features a nylon top housing which, being a classic material, provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. This characteristic allows the switch to absorb more sound and minimizes sharpness, resulting in a more mellow typing experience. In contrast, the Strawberry Wine (V2) employs a Ly top housing, a newer material known for its bright sound signature, which produces resonant clacks while typing. The distinct differences in sound quality between the two types of top housings mean that typists may favor one switch over the other, depending on their preference for either a softer or brighter auditory feedback.
Examining the bottom housings reveals a complementary sound dynamic between the two switches. The Silent Sakura’s bottom housing is made from polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic known for delivering a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile, enhancing clarity and resonance. This results in a more pronounced bottom-out sound when the key is fully pressed. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) utilizes a nylon bottom housing, similar to its top counterpart, which promotes a deeper and fuller sound profile. Consequently, this choice softens the impact when bottoming out, contributing to a rounder overall sound. While both switches have distinct bottom housing materials, the combination of these materials creates a different typing feel, which can influence user preference based on sound and tactile sensation.
Ultimately, the diverging materials used in the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) lead to unique auditory outcomes when typing. While the Silent Sakura’s combination of nylon top and polycarbonate bottom offers a rich, rounded sound, the Strawberry Wine’s nylon topping paired with a similarly soft bottom crafts a harmonious experience centered on deeper acoustics. Despite their differences, one could still achieve a level of sound dampening or fullness in both cases, owing to the common elements of nylon in their housings. The user’s experience will differ based on the ratio of sounds produced during the keystroke, and personal preference will ultimately dictate which switch is favored for a particular typing style.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, distinct differences emerge. The Silent Sakura has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch, facilitating longer typing sessions with less strain. In contrast, the Strawberry Wine (V2) features a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, providing a more substantial feel that some users may find preferable for a robust typing experience. Ultimately, if you lean towards lighter switches, the Silent Sakura's lower forces might be your choice, while the Strawberry Wine’s medium-light force offers a balance between ease of actuation and tactile feedback. Thus, those seeking lighter keys should opt for the Silent Sakura, while users wanting a bit more resistance may prefer the Strawberry Wine (V2).
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, there is a clear difference between the two. The Silent Sakura boasts a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) comes in shorter at 3.6 mm. This makes the Silent Sakura the longer option, providing a more traditional feel that many users appreciate for its depth. In contrast, the Strawberry Wine (V2)'s shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers and those who prioritize quick response times for a more immediate tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference: those who enjoy a deeper actuation may favor the Silent Sakura, while those who lean towards a more responsive experience might opt for the Strawberry Wine (V2).
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Strawberry Wine (V2) for $4.35.
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 Silent Sakura - 43g is characterized by its whisper-quiet operation, evoking the gentle experience of raindrops softly tapping against a window. This makes it an ideal choice for those who prefer a subdued auditory backdrop while typing. In contrast, the Strawberry Wine (V2) offers a much more engaging auditory experience with its clacky and resonant tones. Typists can expect crisp, bright, and percussive sounds that stand in stark contrast to the muted nature of the Silent Sakura. If you're looking for an immersive auditory experience with high-pitched sounds, the Strawberry Wine (V2) will provide that sharp, acute feedback that many typists enjoy, while the Silent Sakura focuses on the serenity of sound.
When it comes to feel, the Silent Sakura - 43g is engineered to provide an ultra-light tactile feedback that caters to those who type with a delicate touch. While specific feel descriptors are not provided, its lighter bottom-out force suggests an easy actuation that can be particularly appealing to light typists. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) shines in its smoothness. The silky nature of its typing experience, enhanced by an impressive factory lube job, ensures that each keystroke flows seamlessly without any hindrance or resistance. This quality gives it a luxurious typing feel that contrasts with the more simplified experience of the Silent Sakura.
In conclusion, the Silent Sakura - 43g and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), while both linear in nature, cater to decidedly different typist preferences. The Silent Sakura prioritizes a quiet and serene typing atmosphere that is well-suited for environments where discretion is necessary, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) offers vibrant auditory feedback and a silky smooth touch experience that appeals to those who enjoy a more dynamic typing experience. Ultimately, if you’re seeking tranquility, go for the Silent Sakura; if you delight in sound and smoothness, the Strawberry Wine (V2) is your go-to switch.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing environment. If you are a light typist or work in a shared space where noise is a concern, the Silent Sakura - with its ultra-light 43g bottom out force and incredibly quiet operation—will make your typing experience pleasant without disturbing those around you. Its serene feel is perfect for individuals who value a calm atmosphere while they work or game. Conversely, if you prefer a more tactile feel combined with an engaging auditory experience, the Strawberry Wine (V2) is an excellent choice. With its medium-light 52g bottom out force and clacky, resonant sound profile, this switch provides not just a satisfying keystroke but also a distinctive acoustic signature that can make typing feel lively and enjoyable. Additionally, the silky smoothness achieved through a meticulous factory lube job enhances the overall typing experience, making it suitable for those who appreciate both sound and feel. Thus, your decision may hinge on whether you seek a tranquil typing environment or a more dynamic and expressive sound experience.
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