HMX Silent Sakura - 43g vs. Wuque Studio WS Morandi
An in-depth look at the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi both offer unique advantages tailored to different typing preferences. The Silent Sakura switches prioritize a serene typing experience, characterized by their ultra-light 43g bottom-out force, making them an excellent choice for those who favor a gentle touch and a sound profile that whispers rather than clatters—ideal for quiet environments. On the other hand, the WS Morandi switches prioritize innovation and aesthetics, featuring a light column that enhances RGB visuals and an all-POM housing that contributes to their muted sound profile. The UPE stem offers a smooth typing experience that many describe as buttery and silky, making it appealing for users who value tactile pleasure alongside performance. While both switches cater to linear typing styles and focus on sound dampening, they each serve distinct needs—whether you prefer the tranquility of the Silent Sakura or the visual flair and smoothness of the WS Morandi, you have compelling options at your disposal. 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
3.50 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
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi, significant differences emerge in the top housing compositions, which ultimately influence the switches' acoustic properties. The Silent Sakura features a nylon top housing, known for its softer characteristics that contribute to a deeper, fuller sound profile. This softer plastic absorbs sound waves more efficiently, resulting in a rounder audio experience. In contrast, the WS Morandi utilizes a POM top housing that also leads to a deeper sound, but it may not possess the same level of sound absorption as nylon. Instead, the POM material provides a more unique sound character, distinguishing it from the traditional nylon. Therefore, while both switches offer muted sound profiles, the nuances lie in the texture and depth where nylon leans towards warmth and fullness, while POM offers a pleasing uniqueness.
The bottom housing compositions of these switches present a different comparison altogether. The Silent Sakura's bottom housing is crafted from polycarbonate, a material known for its stiffness and brightness, leading to a clearer and more resonant sound. This crispness can articulate higher-pitched audio cues effectively. On the other hand, the WS Morandi incorporates POM for its bottom housing as well. This choice results in a consistent sound experience reflective of the top housing, which is deeper and moderated in its auditory delivery. Hence, the Silent Sakura’s polycarbonate bottom allows for a sharper note that complements its nylon top, while the WS Morandi’s POM both on the top and bottom ensures a more cohesive sound landscape that favors a muted experience throughout.
When switching between these two options, it's important to note that the interaction of materials in the top and bottom housings carries significant weight on the overall acoustic feedback experienced during typing. Each switch displays distinct characteristics based on their unique housing combinations. However, if users prioritize a similar auditory experience, they may achieve this by focusing on the deeper, muted profiles inherent in both models, driven by the nylon in the Silent Sakura and POM in the WS Morandi. Despite the differences in individual housings, those drawn to a softer and more velvety typing experience will find satisfactory results with either switch, ensuring a complementary balance of tactile feedback and sound profile.
Weight
The HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch offer distinct actuation and bottom out forces that cater to different preferences in typing and gaming experiences. The Silent Sakura requires a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and has a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it well-suited for prolonged use without causing finger fatigue. In contrast, the WS Morandi has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial and tactile feedback when typing. This difference means that those who favor a lighter switch for extended typing sessions would likely prefer the Silent Sakura, while users who enjoy a stronger push feel might gravitate toward the WS Morandi. Overall, the Silent Sakura is the lighter option, whereas the WS Morandi is the heavier switch, appealing to users with differing tactile preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, we find that the Silent Sakura features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the WS Morandi has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that if you're seeking a quicker response time typically favored by gamers, the WS Morandi would be the better choice due to its shorter movement. However, the Silent Sakura provides a more traditional and hearty feel, making it ideal for those who prefer a deeper switch engagement. Overall, these switches cater to different preferences: you’ll have a more responsive experience with the WS Morandi, while the Silent Sakura offers a richer tactile journey.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Wuque Studio WS Morandi has an MSRP of $4.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Morandi for $3.90.
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 sound profile of the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switch is characterized by its nearly silent operation, designed to create a serene typing environment reminiscent of gentle raindrops. This intentional quietness makes it an excellent choice for those who are sensitive to noise or work in shared spaces, providing a tranquil atmosphere. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switch has been noted for its low-pitched, subdued, and thocky sound. While it’s not completely silent, it offers a satisfying deep "thock" upon key presses that can enhance the typing experience without becoming distracting. Both switches aim for a muted sound profile, but the Morandi’s slightly more pronounced auditory feedback provides a contrast that might appeal to users looking for a rich sound with each keystroke.
In terms of feel, the Silent Sakura - 43g is known for its ultra-light actuation force, allowing for a soft and gentle typing experience. This lightweight nature is beneficial for typists who prefer a more subtle touch without much resistance. Conversely, the WS Morandi is notable for its buttery, creamy, and silky sensations, delivering a remarkably smooth and enjoyable keystroke experience. This switch feels luxurious under the fingers, making each press effortless and fluid. While the feel of both switches can be pleasurable, the key difference lies in the tactile nature of the Morandi, which offers a more immersive typing experience due to its enhanced smoothness.
In summary, both the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches cater to users who appreciate a muted sound profile but diverge in their auditory and tactile experiences. The Silent Sakura provides an extremely quiet typing atmosphere, ideal for non-disruptive environments, while the WS Morandi offers a more profound sound with a smooth and enjoyable keystroke. Choosing between these two will largely depend on personal preferences regarding sound and feel; both promise a pleasant typing experience, but with distinct characteristics that fulfill differing desires.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering the choice between the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, think about your personal typing style and environment. If you are a light typist or someone who often types in shared or quiet spaces, the Silent Sakura’s ultra-light bottom out force of 43 grams and nearly silent operation makes it an excellent choice. It delivers a serene typing experience, akin to the gentle sound of raindrops, perfect for maximizing concentration without disturbing others. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly firmer feel and enjoy the tactile satisfaction of a deeper sound, the WS Morandi’s medium actuation force of 60 grams and its thocky, low-pitched sound profile will likely appeal to you. The buttery, creamy, and silky smoothness of the WS Morandi provides a different, yet equally pleasing, experience that enhances both typing comfort and aesthetic appeal, particularly if you appreciate RGB lighting effects. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your preferences for typing feel, sound, and the environment in which you’ll be using your keyboard.
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