HMX Silent Sakura - 43g vs. HMX Sunset Gleam
An in-depth look at the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the HMX Sunset Gleam switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the HMX Sunset Gleam can significantly influence your typing experience. The Silent Sakura switches are renowned for their ultra-quiet operation, delivering a soothing ambiance that feels almost like gentle raindrops, making them an ideal option for those who prioritize a tranquil work or gaming environment. With a modest 43g bottom-out force, these switches appeal to lighter typists who enjoy effortless keystrokes. On the other hand, the HMX Sunset Gleam, affectionately dubbed the "Duck Duck switch," offers a unique blend of materials that not only provides a satisfying top-out but also delivers a satisfying clack thanks to HMX's quality factory lubrication. This makes the Sunset Gleam suitable for users who seek a more pronounced tactile feedback while still enjoying the smooth operation of a linear switch. Both switches offer distinct advantages, catering to different preferences and typing styles. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
Ly
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and HMX Sunset Gleam present a fascinating study in contrasts, particularly regarding their housing materials. The Silent Sakura employs a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to create a deeper, fuller sound profile. Nylon’s softer nature allows it to absorb sound effectively, producing a duller and rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam uses a polycarbonate top housing that is stiffer and generates a sharper, higher-pitched sound. This difference in material not only affects the auditory feedback one receives while typing but also impacts the overall tactile experience. With the Silent Sakura, users can anticipate a more muted sound upon releasing the key, which can be soothing for those who prefer a softer auditory profile. Conversely, the Sunset Gleam's sharper sound may appeal to users who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing.
Examining the bottom housing, the Silent Sakura contrasts nostalgia with a polycarbonate material, while the Sunset Gleam adopts nylon for its base. The polycarbonate bottom of the Silent Sakura maintains a clear and resonant sound quality, giving it a crispness that enhances the performance of the switch. When typing on this switch, the bottom-out sound can be more pronounced due to the heightened acoustic properties. Meanwhile, the Sunset Gleam’s nylon bottom housing contributes to a fuller and rounder sound profile, allowing for warmer feedback during each keystroke. Overall, while both switches employ different materials for their bottom housing, this segmentation allows users to experience a blend of auditory qualities based on which switch is pressed.
Ultimately, users may find that the performance of both switches can come together to produce enjoyable typing experiences despite their differences in materials. The Silent Sakura's combination of nylon top and polycarbonate bottom creates an interesting dichotomy in auditory feedback, balancing warmth with clarity. On the other hand, the Sunset Gleam, with its polycarbonate top and nylon bottom, delivers a mix of sharpness and fullness. Therefore, regardless of material choice, users can attain satisfying results due to the distinct character each housing brings almost harmoniously in enhancing the overall typing interface. Whether one prefers the soft, muted tones of the Silent Sakura or the clearer, crisper sound of the Sunset Gleam, both switches offer unique variations in sound and feel that can cater to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, one can observe notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Silent Sakura features an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it the lighter option of the two. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam has a higher actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, categorizing it as the heavier switch. These differences suggest that users favoring lighter switches for extended typing or gaming sessions may prefer the Silent Sakura, while those seeking a more substantial typing experience might opt for the Sunset Gleam. Despite both switches being classified as light, the Silent Sakura offers an overall lighter feel, whereas the Sunset Gleam delivers a slightly firmer response at both stages of key press.
Travel distance
The HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch exhibit distinct travel distances, with the Silent Sakura featuring a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sunset Gleam offers a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference indicates that the Silent Sakura provides a more traditional, deeper keypress, which some users may find more satisfying and less abrupt than the shallower Sunset Gleam. On the other hand, the Sunset Gleam's reduced travel distance aligns with current gaming trends where quicker response times are prioritized, making it a preferred choice for gamers seeking speed. Overall, those who favor a more substantial typing experience should opt for the Silent Sakura, while those who appreciate a snappier feel may enjoy the Sunset Gleam.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Sunset Gleam has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sunset Gleam for $2.99.
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 provides a remarkably quiet typing experience, akin to the gentle patter of raindrops. This makes it an ideal choice for users who prefer a serene environment, especially in shared spaces or quiet settings. Conversely, the HMX Sunset Gleam is characterized by a more noticeable sound profile, offering a satisfying clack upon activation due to its well-designed materials and factory lubrication. This gives it a subtle auditory feedback that appeals to those who enjoy a bit of sound while typing but still wish to maintain a relatively subdued atmosphere. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would hinge on personal preference for sound levels, as the Silent Sakura tilts towards silence, while the Sunset Gleam provides a more pronounced typing acoustic.
When it comes to feel, the Silent Sakura - 43g is engineered for a softer touch, offering a light 43g bottom-out force that's particularly well-suited for users who prefer a feather-light typing experience. This makes the switch feel smooth and effortless, which can be beneficial for long typing sessions. On the other hand, the Sunset Gleam is crafted to provide a satisfying tactile response with its blend of materials, resulting in a piece of equipment that feels solid and stable during use. The factory lube enhances the overall smoothness, allowing for both a smooth travel and satisfying feedback with each keystroke. In this regard, typists seeking a light touch might gravitate towards the Silent Sakura, while those who enjoy a more robust feel might prefer the Sunset Gleam.
In conclusion, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g is tailored for those who seek whisper-quiet keystrokes and a light typing experience, making it perfect for quieter environments while ensuring comfort during extended use. The HMX Sunset Gleam, on the other hand, strikes a balance by delivering a subtle sound with a satisfying tactile feel, appealing to users who appreciate a noticeable feedback with their key presses. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences, ensuring that regardless of your choice, you can enjoy a distinct typing experience that aligns with your personal style and needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switches ultimately depends on your personal typing style and environment. If you're someone who values a quiet, tranquil typing experience, perhaps for work in shared spaces or late-night sessions, the Silent Sakura's ultra-light 43g bottom-out force and whisper-quiet design make it ideal for you. It offers a soft feel and a near-silent feedback that caters perfectly to light typists or anyone who prefers subtlety. On the other hand, if you're looking for a bit more force behind your keystrokes and enjoy a satisfying tactile response without the loud noise, the Sunset Gleam with its 48g bottom-out force might be your choice. Known for its pleasant top-out sound and excellent factory lube, it strikes a nice balance between feedback and sound, making it suited for typists who want a more engaged typing experience but without overwhelming noise. In essence, choose the Silent Sakura for a serene and gentle vibe, or the Sunset Gleam for a touch of enjoyable feedback.
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