HMX Silent Sakura - 43g vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches is crucial in shaping your overall typing experience. The HMX Silent Sakura - 43g, with its ultra-light bottom out force of 43g, is designed for those who prefer a serene and nearly silent typing environment, making it an ideal choice for light typists or those who work in shared spaces. In contrast, the Haimu Viola Tricolor offers a distinctly tactile feedback with a satisfying "thuddy" sound profile, providing a punchy experience that can invigorate your typing sessions without being overly aggressive. While the Silent Sakura is perfect for creating a calm workspace, the Viola Tricolor appeals to users seeking a more engaging tactile sensation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the most suitable switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Spring
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Haimu Viola Tricolor, it is evident that each employs different materials for their top and bottom switches, leading to distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Silent Sakura features a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition. This quality is enhanced by its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a duller yet rounded acoustic output. In contrast, the Viola Tricolor opts for a polycarbonate top housing that yields a sharper and more resonant sound profile. The rigidity of polycarbonate contributes to a clearer auditory experience, accentuating higher pitches. Thus, these differences in top housing materials significantly impact the overall sound signature of the respective switches.
When examining the bottom housing, the Silent Sakura utilizes polycarbonate, which again contributes to the crispness of sound, aligning with the characteristics typically offered by this material. Conversely, the Viola Tricolor's nylon bottom housing softens the acoustic profile, imparting a rounder, deeper quality to the sound. This contrast reveals an interesting interplay; the bottom housing materially influences the "bottom-out" sound, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. As such, the Sonic character of the Silent Sakura is primarily defined by its nylon top, while that of the Viola Tricolor derives more from its nylon bottom, showcasing how different materials can deliver varied auditory sensations based on their placement.
Despite their differences, the Silent Sakura and Viola Tricolor can still produce satisfying typing experiences, albeit through different mechanisms. The Silent Sakura, with a nylon top and polycarbonate bottom, aims for a more muted and fuller sound, while the Viola Tricolor, with its polycarbonate top and nylon bottom, seeks a sharper, more articulated sound. If one were to use both switches in a keyboard, the auditory and tactile nuances could be complemented by the juxtaposition of softer and sharper qualities. Therefore, while the sound profiles will differ based on the materials used, one can achieve effective and pleasurable results by mixing them according to personal preferences, capitalizing on the unique attributes offered by each switch.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, significant differences in actuation and bottom out forces stand out. The Silent Sakura has a light actuation force of 37 grams, allowing for easier and quicker key presses, making it suitable for those who prefer longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Viola Tricolor lacks a specified actuation force, but its bottom out force of 63.5 grams indicates a much heavier feel, catering to users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. While the Silent Sakura's bottom out force of 43 grams is also lighter, it reflects a smoother transition without the need for a strong push. Consequently, users seeking a gentle touch will likely favor the Silent Sakura, while those who enjoy a heavier key press will find the Viola Tricolor more appealing. Ultimately, the different forces highlight a clear preference for lighter versus medium-heavy switches depending on the typing experience desired.
Travel distance
The HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch differ in their travel distances, with the Silent Sakura measuring 4 mm and the Viola Tricolor at 3.8 mm. This makes the Viola Tricolor the shorter of the two switches, providing a more responsive feel that may appeal to gamers who favor quicker actuation. In contrast, the longer 4 mm travel distance of the Silent Sakura offers a more substantial depth, which some users may prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. While both switches can deliver effective performance, the choice between them will ultimately depend on whether one values the speed and responsiveness of a shorter distance or the wholesome feedback of a longer travel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Haimu Viola Tricolor has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Viola Tricolor for $3.09.
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 Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch is engineered for an exceptionally quiet typing experience characterized by its soft, muted sound profile that gently resembles the calming sound of rain. This makes it an ideal option for environments where noise reduction is essential, allowing typists to focus without disruption. In contrast, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch creates a more vibrant auditory experience. With a noticeably thuddy and punchy sound profile, it delivers bassy and low-pitched tones that resonate richly during key presses. This auditory feedback can add a dynamic quality to typing, making each keystroke feel more pronounced and engaging.
Feel-wise, the Silent Sakura - 43g switch provides a smooth, uninterrupted action typical of linear switches, ideal for users who prefer a seamless typing experience without any tactile bumps or feedback. This leads to a fluid motion, enhancing the typing speed and comfort for light typists. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor switch boasts an invigorating feel, combining pronounced feedback with a medium tactile sensation that keeps the user connected to their typing. Its accented nature offers enough tactility to be satisfying without feeling overly harsh or taxing on the fingers, allowing for a more interactive typing experience.
In summary, the Silent Sakura - 43g is optimal for those seeking a serene and quiet typing experience, while the Haimu Viola Tricolor is better suited for users who enjoy a more engaging and tactile feedback. Depending on your priorities in sound and feel, both switches can cater to different preferences—whether you gravitate towards the tranquility of linear switches or the lively character of tactile ones.
Conclusion
To summarize, the choice between the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and environmental considerations. If you find yourself in shared spaces or simply prefer typing in silence, the Silent Sakura's whisper-quiet operation and ultra-light 43g bottom out force create an ambiance conducive to focus and tranquility. This switch is particularly suitable if you're a light typist looking for a subtle yet enjoyable typing experience without the distraction of sound. On the other hand, if you appreciate tactile feedback and a bit of auditory character in your keystrokes, the Viola Tricolor might be your ideal match. With its pronounced tactility and a deeper bassy sound profile, this switch adds an engaging dimension to your typing experience, making it perfect for those who enjoy a more invigorating feel while typing. Therefore, assess your typical environment and typing style: choose the Silent Sakura for serene silence and ease, or opt for the Viola Tricolor for a lively and dynamic tactile encounter.
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