HMX Silent Sakura - 43g vs. Wuque Studio WS Jade
An in-depth look at the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Wuque Studio WS Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Wuque Studio WS Jade both present strikingly different experiences that cater to distinct preferences. The Silent Sakura switches, known for their whisper-quiet operation and ultra-light 43g bottom-out force, offer a serene typing experience ideal for users who prioritize a peaceful environment while typing or gaming. Their linear design provides a smooth keystroke without any tactile bump, making them an excellent choice for those who enjoy a minimalist feel. On the other hand, the WS Jade switches stand out with their metallic insert, producing a resonant and vibrant sound characteristic that many enthusiasts find appealing. The creamy and silky feel, combined with a striking RGB display courtesy of a light diffuser, makes the WS Jade a delight for users who not only want performance but also an engaging aesthetic. While the Silent Sakura is perfect for those seeking tranquility, the WS Jade draws in users who appreciate a more dynamic auditory feedback in their typing experience. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
UPE
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and Wuque Studio WS Jade switches both showcase distinctly different materials in their top housings, with nylon and POM respectively. The nylon housing of the Silent Sakura is celebrated for its ability to produce a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. This results in a more cushioned auditory experience, as the nylon absorbs sound waves more effectively than harder plastics. Conversely, the WS Jade's POM top housing delivers a unique and enjoyable sound that also leans toward the deeper side; however, it maintains a more muted quality than nylon. Thus, while both switches aim to create a rounded sound profile, the material distinction suggests that users may experience different timbral qualities depending on the switch.
When we turn our attention to the bottom housings, a different dynamic unfolds. The Silent Sakura uses polycarbonate, which is known for its crisp and resonant sound profile. This stiffer material contributes a sharper, higher-pitched sound that contrasts with the deeper tones offered by the nylon top. On the other hand, the WS Jade features a POM bottom housing, which similarly aims for a pleasing sound but results in a more muted auditory experience overall. This divergence in bottom housing materials signifies that, while sound absorption will be delegated to the top of each switch, it will be the bottom housing material that amplifies the impact of the bottom-out sound, causing a noticeable difference in tactility and resonance.
Ultimately, both the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and Wuque Studio WS Jade switches exhibit qualities that lend themselves to a distinct typing experience. While users of both switches will appreciate a rich auditory profile, the variations in material—nylon versus POM for the top and polycarbonate versus POM for the bottom—introduce shifts in both sound and feel. Despite these differences, enthusiasts can expect to find satisfying typing experiences from each switch due to the underlying acoustic principles governing their designs. However, those seeking specific auditory characteristics or tactile feedback should carefully consider the unique contributions of each housing material to achieve their desired results.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Silent Sakura features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it well-suited for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience over extended periods, whether for work or gaming. In contrast, the WS Jade has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel that may appeal to those who favor a stronger push during keystrokes. Consequently, the Silent Sakura is the lighter option while the WS Jade is the heavier choice. The differing actuation and bottom out forces indicate that users will experience distinct tactile feedback and resistance levels, tailoring their typing experience to their preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Silent Sakura features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the WS Jade has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Silent Sakura the option for those who prefer a more traditional and hearty depth in their keystrokes, which can provide a satisfying tactile experience. On the other hand, the WS Jade's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers who are looking for quicker response times and a more immediate feedback, reflecting the trend towards short travel distances in modern switches. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference—whether one values the longer, more substantial travel of the Silent Sakura or the snappiness of the WS Jade.
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 Wuque Studio WS Jade comes in at $4.30 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 linear switch offers a typing experience that is almost entirely silent, akin to the soft pitter-patter of raindrops, making it excellent for environments where noise is a concern. This switch is designed specifically for those who prefer a whisper-quiet keyboard, minimizing audible feedback and allowing for a serene typing ambiance. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch features a more pronounced auditory profile with sharp, bright, and clacky sounds that produce a resonant quality upon keypresses. The addition of a metallic insert in the stem base enhances this sound, providing a crisp and engaging auditory experience that is not present in the Silent Sakura, making it more suited for those who appreciate a lively, noticeable keystroke.
When considering the feel, the Silent Sakura switch shines with its ultra-light 43g bottom-out force, making it ideal for light typists who favor a less resistance-laden typing experience. However, the subjective qualities of its feel remain unspecified, leaving some mystery regarding its tactile engagement. On the other hand, the WS Jade's typing experience is characterized by a silky smoothness and a creamy texture, offering users an effortless gliding sensation with each keystroke. This smoothness stems from either factory lubrication or the specific materials utilized in its construction, delivering a rich tactile sensation that appeals to those who favor a luxurious typing feel.
In conclusion, both the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switches cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Silent Sakura is perfect for users prioritizing a quiet environment, while the WS Jade offers a more dynamic auditory and tactile experience. Users will find that the type of experience they prefer will heavily influence their choice between these two switches, and by considering the nuances in sound and feel, they can select the switch that best aligns with their typing style.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switches ultimately depends on your typing preferences and environment. If you prioritize a quiet typing experience and a lightweight feel, the Silent Sakura is your best choice. Its ultra-light bottom-out force is ideal for light typists or those who often find themselves in shared spaces needing to keep noise levels low. You're likely to enjoy a serene atmosphere where you can type without disturbing others. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile experience with a medium force requirement, the WS Jade should be your pick. Its 60g bottom-out force provides a satisfying feedback while maintaining a uniquely smooth and creamy typing feel. This switch will resonate perfectly in an individual environment or when crafting a striking audio profile that can enhance your typing experience with a distinctive sound. Ultimately, it all boils down to whether you value silence and lightness or sound profile and intentional feedback.
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