HMX Silent Sakura - 43g vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, preferences often boil down to the typing experience one seeks, and two standout options are the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Durock White Lotus. The Silent Sakura, characterized by its ultra-light 43g bottom-out force, offers a smooth, linear feel that is particularly suited for light typists who desire a whisper-quiet environment reminiscent of raindrops tapping softly against a window. This switch is perfect for those who value a serene typing atmosphere devoid of distractions. In contrast, the Durock White Lotus introduces a light tactile feel that provides subtle feedback without overwhelming the user, making it ideal for work and extended typing sessions. This switch not only allows for a delicate typing experience but also features a removable light column for vibrant RGB lighting effects, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your keyboard. Ultimately, the choice between these two exceptional switches comes down to whether you prefer a silent, linear typing experience or a mild tactile feedback with added visual flair. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
56g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Modified PC & UPE Blend
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
Gold-plated long spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Durock White Lotus, distinct differences arise, particularly concerning the properties of the top housings. The Silent Sakura utilizes a nylon top housing, which is characterized by its softer plastic composition. This material contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its sound-absorbing qualities, resulting in a sound that is more subdued and rounded. In contrast, the Durock White Lotus features a modified PC & UPE blend top housing. This innovative combination offers a premium feel while delivering a sharper sound profile, as the harder plastic element provides more resonance and clarity. Although both switches aim for high-quality acoustic performance, the Silent Sakura’s use of nylon is tailored for those who prefer a warmer, muted acoustics, while the White Lotus may cater to players who enjoy a more vibrant auditory experience.
The differences continue in the bottom housing, where the Silent Sakura employs polycarbonate, known for its stiffness and sound clarity. The sharper, high-pitched auditory feedback associated with polycarbonate enables a crisper typing experience, enhancing the tactile response when keys are pressed. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus employs a nylon bottom housing similar to its top, creating a consistent resonant experience throughout. The use of nylon in the Durock's bottom housing mirrors the sound qualities noted in the Silent Sakura’s top housing, leading to a fuller, rounder sound profile. This contrast in material choice impacts the switches’ overall auditory experience, emphasizing the bottoming-out feel with the nylon’s muted characteristics.
Despite these differences, both switches can produce results that may appeal to similar users, albeit through varied channels. In switches where the top and bottom housings differ, like in the Silent Sakura, the acoustic qualities blend to create a unique sound experience. The overall impact on sound may flow naturally between the two materials: where the softer nylon exhibits its dampening properties in the Silent Sakura, the Durock White Lotus offsets this by combining a softer top with a firmer bottom, maintaining a balanced auditory profile. Therefore, while the experience of each switch can be distinctly different based on housing materials, both designs thoughtfully harness their respective materials to create compelling sound profiles for different types of users—those seeking warmth versus those desiring clarity.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, a notable difference in their actuation and bottom out forces emerges. The Silent Sakura requires an actuation force of 37 grams, with a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it a lighter option, ideal for those who prefer a smoother typing experience and extended use during work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the White Lotus demands a slightly heavier actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 56 grams, appealing to users who favor a more substantial tactile feel and feedback while typing. Overall, with the Silent Sakura being the lighter choice, users seeking less resistance will find it more comfortable for long-term use, while the White Lotus provides a stronger push for those who enjoy a firmer typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing either switch, users will experience a similar physical distance as they engage the key. Since both switches offer identical travel distances, individuals using either switch can expect comparable results in their typing or gaming experience, with no discernible difference in the distance traveled when pressing down on the keys.
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 Durock White Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the White Lotus for $4.57.
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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch offers a particularly subdued auditory experience, characterized by a quiet typing style reminiscent of gentle raindrops. This feature makes it an attractive option for environments where noise levels need to be minimized. In contrast, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch has a sound signature that tends to be low-pitched and neutral. This means it delivers a mellow tone that doesn't overwhelm the senses and remains suitable for both home and work settings. While the Silent Sakura excels in providing a largely silent operation, the White Lotus offers a balanced sound profile that could appeal to those who enjoy a bit more acoustic feedback without being disruptive.
Regarding feel, the Silent Sakura - 43g switch is designed for a light typing experience, allowing effortless key presses that may be characterized by a smooth, linear action. Users looking for a gentle typing sensation will find this to be a comfortable option. On the other hand, the White Lotus tactile switch offers a unique feel with its easy-to-press mechanism and mild tactile feedback. This makes it particularly well-suited for long typing sessions, ensuring minimal finger fatigue while also providing a subtle indication of actuation. The tactile nature of the White Lotus, while gentle, provides a satisfying experience, setting it apart from the more straightforward linear feel of the Silent Sakura.
In conclusion, while the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and Durock White Lotus switches offer different experiences, both cater to specific user preferences. The Silent Sakura is ideal for users seeking a quiet and smooth operation, making it a good fit for noise-sensitive environments. Meanwhile, the White Lotus provides a light tactile feedback that enhances typing comfort without encumbering the user with pronounced features. Together, they present options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, whether they prioritize silence or enjoy the subtle art of tactile feedback when typing.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing environment. If you value a whisper-quiet experience and prefer a lighter touch due to a lighter bottom-out force of 43g, then the Silent Sakura is an excellent choice, especially for those who work in shared spaces or during late-night sessions where noise is a concern. Its subtle touch and serene typing experience allow you to maintain focus without disturbing those around you. On the other hand, if you want the benefit of tactile feedback while still enjoying a comfortable typing experience, the White Lotus with its 56g medium-light force is the way to go. Its mild tactility strikes a perfect balance for extended typing sessions, encouraging an engaging feel that prevents finger fatigue without overwhelming the senses. Additionally, the visual appeal of the removable light column adds an aesthetic touch to your keyboard setup. In essence, consider the type of feedback, sound level, and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard when making your final decision.
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