HMX Silent Sakura - 43g vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often boils down to personal preferences in typing experience and acoustics. The HMX Silent Sakura - 43g, a linear switch, is celebrated for its incredibly quiet operation and low actuation force, making it a superb option for light typists who prefer a calm and unobtrusive typing environment. Its gentle feedback allows for smooth key presses that are reminiscent of raindrops, ideal for those who work in shared spaces or simply favor a serene atmosphere. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx, a tactile switch, offers a more dynamic experience by marrying a satisfying tactile bump with a refined acoustic profile. With its deep "thock" sound when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet release, it caters to users who appreciate both tactile feedback and an engaging auditory response while typing. These distinct characteristics highlight the advantages of each switch type; the Silent Sakura emphasizes tranquility and lightness, while the U4Tx champions tactile richness and sound depth. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
When comparing the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Gazzew U4Tx switches, the materials used for their top housing play a crucial role in shaping their acoustic characteristics. The Silent Sakura incorporates a nylon top housing, renowned for its ability to absorb sound effectively thanks to its relatively softer composition. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a warm typing experience characteristic of nylon switches. In contrast, the U4Tx utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend for its top housing, often referred to as “boba plastic.” Like nylon, this softer plastic blend also contributes to a rich and deep sound profile, leading to similarities in acoustic feedback between the two switches. Therefore, users who appreciate the sound signature of the Silent Sakura may find comparable results with the U4Tx, enabling a satisfying typing experience regardless of the specific materials.
Examining the bottom housing of these switches reveals even more differences that influence their overall auditory and tactile responses. The Silent Sakura employs a polycarbonate bottom housing, selected for its stiff nature, which enhances the sharpness and clarity of the sound produced when bottoming out a key. This rigidity offers a more resonant tone that can be particularly appealing for those favoring a crisp sound. Conversely, the Gazzew U4Tx features a proprietary blend for its bottom housing as well, echoing the same softness as its top housing. This leads to a richer and deeper sound profile that contrasts with the crisper notes generated by the polycarbonate bottom of the Silent Sakura. As such, the auditory experience when bottoming out the key will differ significantly between these two switches, with the Silent Sakura offering a clearer sound and the U4Tx providing a deeper resonance.
Ultimately, the differences in housing materials dictate unique acoustic profiles for both the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Gazzew U4Tx. While their top housings both aim to create a rich auditory experience, the contrasting effects of the bottom housings result in distinct outcomes during typing. The sharper sound profile of the Silent Sakura is juxtaposed against the fuller sound of the U4Tx, showcasing how the composite material blend in each switch influences the experience based on bottom-out feedback. Users seeking a specific sound may prefer one model over the other, but those who prioritize a unified acoustic profile may find that the softer top housing of either switch provides common ground despite their differences, facilitating a variety of preferences in the keyboard enthusiast community.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, there is a clear distinction in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Silent Sakura has a relatively light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it an excellent choice for users who prefer less resistance for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming marathons. In contrast, the U4Tx switch has an unspecified actuation force but a heavier bottom out force of 62.5 grams. This suggests that it requires a firmer push to register a keystroke, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. Consequently, the Silent Sakura is the lighter option, while the U4Tx is heavier, catering to different user preferences when it comes to switch feel and typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, there is a noticeable difference between the two. The Silent Sakura switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the U4Tx switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This 0.4 mm difference can significantly influence the typing experience; those who prefer a more traditional feel with a deeper press may appreciate the Silent Sakura’s longer travel distance. Conversely, the shorter travel distance of the U4Tx switch may appeal to gamers or users who seek faster response times and more immediate keystrokes. Therefore, if you prefer a hearty depth in your typing experience, the HMX Silent Sakura would be the preferable option, whereas the Gazzew U4Tx is ideal for those who favor quicker feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g comes in at $3.50, whereas the Gazzew U4Tx comes in at $6.50.
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 Silent Sakura - 43g switch is renowned for its whisper-quiet sound profile, reminiscent of gentle raindrops, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize a serene typing environment. With its ultra-light 43g bottom-out force, this switch minimizes noise during both bottoming out and topping out, ensuring a discreet typing experience. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch presents a sound profile that is both deep and resonant, characterized by a satisfying "thock" when bottoming out and a quieter output when topping out. The U4Tx affords a bassy sound with fullness, yet it still retains a muted quality that prevents it from being overly loud, making it acoustically pleasing while maintaining a refined auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Silent Sakura - 43g offers an exceptionally light touch, ideal for typists who may find heavier switches cumbersome. Its linear nature results in a smooth key press without the tactile feedback that some users seek. On the other hand, the U4Tx tactile switch is specifically crafted to provide a distinctly sharp tactile bump, delivering high feedback intensity with each keypress. This robust tactile feedback not only enhances the typing experience but also appeals to users who enjoy a more interactive sensation while typing.
In summary, both the Silent Sakura - 43g and Gazzew U4Tx switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Silent Sakura excels in providing a quiet and light typing experience, making it suitable for users who prefer a tranquil environment. Conversely, the U4Tx shines with its rich, resonant sound and sharp tactile feedback, appealing to those who appreciate a more engaging and auditory typing experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a serene, linear feel or a tactile, resonant sound profile that enhances the typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch largely depends on your typing preferences and environment. If you find yourself in a quiet office space or live with others and need a switch that won’t disrupt those around you, the Silent Sakura’s ultra-light 43g bottom out force is ideal. Its whisper-quiet operation mimics the soft sound of rain, making it perfect for light typists who value a serene and subtle typing experience. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile and acoustically engaging typing experience, the Gazzew U4Tx may be the better choice. With a heavier bottom out force of 62.5 grams and a pleasing "thock" sound, these switches provide a distinct tactile bump that offers satisfying feedback with every keystroke. This makes them well-suited for both typists who appreciate a deeper sound profile and those who like a more substantial feel under their fingers. Ultimately, consider your typing style, the acoustic environment around you, and what sensory feedback you crave from your keyboard to make the best decision between these two excellent switches.
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